Processed sunflower hulls will be used to generate renewable energy and produce biomass pellets for external customers

Cargill today announced a $150 million investment to upgrade its sunflower processing facility in Saint-Nazaire, reinforcing its position as one of Western Europe’s leading sunflower processors and expanding the regional supply of plant-based protein for the animal feed sector.

The investment will enable the facility to transition from producing lower-protein sunflower meal to high and super-high protein sunflower meal, supporting growing demand for sustainable feed ingredients while reducing dependence on imported protein meal.

Located in one of France’s major sunflower-growing regions, the Saint-Nazaire facility plays a key role in supporting local agricultural supply chains. The company said the investment will provide farmers with a reliable market outlet for sunflower seeds while strengthening collaboration with regional cooperatives.

Commenting on the announcement, Alexis Cazin said:

“This strategic investment strengthens our ability to connect French farmers to growing demand for high-value protein meal. By upgrading our processing capacity in Saint-Nazaire, we’re creating more opportunities for local farmers while helping ensure France remains competitive in rapidly evolving global feed markets.”

The project also marks a significant step in improving the site’s energy efficiency and sustainability profile. Through the installation of a new biomass boiler powered by processed sunflower hulls, the company expects to reduce natural gas consumption by more than 100 GWh annually and lower carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 20,000 metric tons per year, based on independent engineering estimates.

According to the company, the projected emissions reduction would be equivalent to removing approximately 15,000 vehicles from the road and would account for nearly 90 per cent of the site’s CO2 emissions.

In addition to powering on-site operations, excess sunflower hulls will be converted into agricultural biomass pellets for external customers, including district heating networks. The initiative is intended to support local energy needs while promoting circular use of agricultural by-products.

The Saint-Nazaire facility currently employs 75 people, with the expansion project expected to create an additional seven jobs. Construction is scheduled to begin in November 2026, with commissioning planned for March 2029. During the development phase, the project is expected to generate economic activity through the engagement of regional contractors and suppliers.

The investment is supported by ADEME and the France 2030 program.

The announcement also underscores Cargill’s broader long-term commitment to France, where the company has continued to invest in industrial modernization and supply chain infrastructure. Recent investments include approximately €25 million in Baupte, €50 million in Saint-Cyr-en-Val near Orléans, and €61 million dedicated to the ongoing transformation of its Haubourdin facility.