PORT COLBORNE, ONT. — Jungbunzlauer is investing approximately $200 million to build a xanthan gum addition to the company’s existing Port Colborne, Ont., facility.

The company’s 50,000-square-foot facility, which has been operational since 2002, currently produces biodegradable ingredients derived from corn. The plant also produces such ingredients as citric acid and special salts using a natural fermentation process, according to the company.

The addition, which recently broke ground and will be connected to the company’s nearby corn wet milling plant, will enable it to produce a readily biodegradable xanthan gum.

“This expansion in Port Colborne marks a significant milestone for our North American business,” said Bruno Tremblay, chief executive officer of Jungbunzlauer. “This site not only reinforces our commitment to providing our partners with top-quality, natural biogums but also highlights our dedication to sustainability and to the local community.”