Chicago-based Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) said it opened a new enzyme lab in Davis, Calif. The lab’s scientists will work with ADM’s other R&D facilities around the globe to develop enzyme products to serve a variety of markets. The company will also partner with China-based Qingdao Vland Biotech Group Co. Ltd. to develop and commercialize feed enzymes to improve animal health and nutrition.

This lab will benefit from its location near the University of California, Davis, which provides access to expertise and resources in the areas of food science and nutrition, as well as animal health and agriculture, said ADM Chief Technology Officer Todd Werpy.

Earlier this year, ADM and Vland signed a joint development agreement under which the companies will share enzyme-producing strains as a basis for the development of feed enzymes. Products developed under the agreement will be commercialized by both companies, ADM said.