Processing capacity targets premium protein
The investment allows the site to shift from lower protein meal production to high and super-high protein sunflower meal, creating a regional source of plant-based protein for the animal feed sector. The upgrade reduces reliance on imported meal as sunflower crops continue increasing across France.
“This strategic investment strengthens our ability to connect French farmers to growing demand for high-value protein meal,” said Alexis Cazin, president of Cargill’s Agriculture and Trading group in EMEA. “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.”
Energy resilience drives sustainability gains
The facility will use processed sunflower hulls to generate energy through a new biomass boiler, reducing natural gas consumption by more than 100 GWh annually. Cargill expects to cut CO2 emissions by approximately 20,000 metric tons per year—equivalent to removing 15,000 cars from roads and representing 90% of the site’s current emissions.
Excess hulls will be converted into agricultural biomass pellets for external customers, including district heating networks, supporting circular use of agricultural by-products.
Construction timeline and economic impact
The project will create seven jobs at the 75-person facility. Construction begins in November 2026, with commissioning planned for March 2029. The initiative is supported by ADEME and France’s 2030 program, reflecting Cargill’s broader French investments totaling over €136 million across multiple facilities.
