The probiotic smart factory of Inner Mongolia Ketuo Biological Co, with a total investment of 1.88 billion yuan, was inaugurated in Hohhot on April 11.

This facility is currently the largest probiotic smart factory in Asia, covering approximately 360 mu (24 hectares). From planning and design to construction and operational launch, it adheres to international first-class standards. Once fully operational, it is expected to generate an additional annual output value of 4 billion yuan ($140 million), with profits and tax contributions totaling 1.5 billion yuan.

The inauguration ceremony of the probiotic smart factory. [Photo/Hohhot Convergence Media]

The smart factory comprises three main sections: an animal and plant microecological preparation production base, an edible probiotics production base, and a generic technology research and development center.

The animal and plant microecological preparation production base, covering about 97 mu, has been completed and put into operation. It features one of the few production lines in China dedicated to microecological preparations for animal husbandry and agricultural planting, with an annual output of 50,000 metric tons.

The edible probiotics production base, covering about 213 mu, is being constructed in two phases. Phase one was put into use in 2025 and, by the end of this year, will have an annual capacity of 2,000 tons of lactic acid bacteria powder, 100 tons of yogurt starters, 1,000 tons of lactic acid bacteria metabolites, and 1,200 tons of ready-to-eat lactic acid bacteria preparations.

The generic technology research and development center, covering about 50 mu, will deepen industry-university-research collaboration and drive innovation and industrial upgrading in probiotic technology.