In September 2017, B+B launched the "EthaNa" joint project together with the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical-Biotechnological Processes (CBP) in Leuna and 10 partners to develop an innovative process for the mild, alcoholic extraction of rapeseed. The alternative processing line should be integrable into conventional oil mills.

The first construction phase of the EthaNa pilot plant, rapeseed dehulling, was successfully commissioned in April 2019. The ethanolic direct extraction and desolventizing, are currently being installed and will be commissioned in October 2020.

Patents for the EthaNa process have been granted in Canada and the USA.

Further information on this project can be found here.