After years in development, the world’s largest bio-industrial facility for producing next-generation 1,4-butanediol—or BDO—is now operating in Eddyville, Iowa. The plant offers a renewable alternative to fossil-derived materials.
The facility is operated by Qore, a joint venture between Minnesota-based Cargill and Germany’s HELM. Together, they’re producing QIRA—a plant-based chemical designed for use in everything from apparel and footwear to beauty products, automotive parts, electronics, and packaging.
Steve Kuiper is an Iowa corn farmer who represents the industry on a state and national level…
Jon Veldhouse is CEO of QORE…
QIRA is made using annually renewable dent corn—sourced from within a 100-mile radius of the plant. While not used for human consumption, this specific corn variety plays a key role in lowering the carbon footprint of everyday consumer goods.
