Alltech begins construction of US$4.6M biofertilizer plant in Kentucky

USA – Global agriculture company Alltech has started building a US$4.6 million, 15,000-square-foot manufacturing plant in Kentucky to produce biological fertilizers and crop inputs.

The facility will give farmers natural alternatives to chemical fertilizers while reducing U.S. dependence on imported synthetic products.

Located at Alltech’s global headquarters, the plant will be the company’s first U.S. facility focused on crop science technologies. Modeled after Alltech Crop Science (ACS) operations in Brazil and Spain, it will produce more than 66,000 gallons of biological fertilizers per shift per month and create at least six new full-time jobs.

“This facility represents the next phase in scaling our biological innovations for agriculture,” said ACS vice president Dr. Steve Borst. “By expanding production here in Kentucky, we can bring farmers natural, science-based solutions that improve soil health, strengthen crops and reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers.”

USDA support

The project received a US$2.34 million grant from the USDA’s Fertilizer Production Expansion Program (FPEP), a US$500 million national effort launched in 2022 to expand domestic fertilizer production and lower costs for farmers.

Alltech’s biofertilizers use beneficial microorganisms that improve soil fertility, root growth and nutrient absorption, helping farmers maintain yields while protecting the environment.

“Fermentation has always been at the heart of our business, and this facility allows us to apply that expertise in new ways to support crop health and productivity,” said Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech.

“We’re proud to strengthen our presence in Kentucky and continue advancing agricultural science.”

Strengthening local agriculture

The plant will reduce reliance on imported fertilizers while expanding Alltech’s reach across U.S. and international markets. “Alltech has been a leader in the agriculture industry for nearly half a century,” said Rocky Adkins, senior advisor to Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear.

“This project shows that companies are continuing to choose Kentucky as their home and a prime place to do business.”

Congressman Andy Barr added, “Alltech continues to set the standard for innovation in Kentucky’s agricultural economy. This grant will help expand production capacity, strengthen supply chains, and create more opportunities for Kentuckians.”

Over 70 global agri-food leaders attended the groundbreaking ceremony in Nicholasville during the Alltech Presidents Club meeting, which focused on future opportunities for sustainable agriculture.

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