10 March 2015 – Evolva (SIX: EVE) today announces that Ajinomoto Co. Inc., Japan, has confirmed that Evolva has completed the first R&D phase in their collaboration and that the collaboration is moving into its next phase. The ultimate objective of the collaboration is the joint development of novel fermentation production routes for a natural functional ingredient for application in Personal Care. Evolva has developed an innovative process that allows Ajinomoto to manufacture the target ingredient. In recognition of the progress and several new findings, Ajinomoto will make a milestone payment to Evolva.

Neil Goldsmith, CEO of Evolva, said, “This is another example of excellent cooperation between the Evolva team and our partner, in this case Ajinomoto. Our fermentation platform is continuing to deliver strong progress in key projects.”

"We have been working with Evolva's team of scientists for eighteen months now and we are impressed with their progress to date. It confirms that our collaboration with Evolva will provide new impulses in our search for innovative products and improved production processes.” said Takeshi Kimura, Member of the Board & Corporate Vice President at Ajinomoto.

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About Ajinomoto Co. Inc.

Ajinomoto Co. is a global manufacturer of high-quality seasonings, processed foods, beverages, amino acids, pharmaceuticals and specialty chemicals. For many decades Ajinomoto Co. has contributed to food culture and human health through wide-ranging application of amino acid technologies. Today, the company is becoming increasingly involved with solutions for improved food resources, human health and global sustainability. Founded in 1909 and now operating in 26 countries and regions, Ajinomoto Co. had net sales of JPY 991.3 billion (USD 11.0 billion) in fiscal 2013. For more about Ajinomoto Co., (TYO: 2802), visit www.ajinomoto.com.

About Evolva Holding SA

Evolva is a pioneer and global leader in sustainable, fermentation-based approaches to ingredients for health, wellness and nutrition. Evolva’s products include stevia, vanillin, nootkatone, valencene, saffron and resveratrol. As well as developing its own proprietary ingredients, Evolva also deploys its technology for partners, providing them with a competitive edge and sharing in the returns they make. For more information see www.evolva.com. Questions about our fermentation approach? Have a look at our video.

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