Dot Ingredients CEO Michael Fielding took the global stage at the 15th ICIS World Surfactants Conference, held 7–8 May 2025 at the Hyatt Regency, Jersey City. The conference brought together more than 150 delegates, 25+ speakers, and key decision-makers from across the surfactants value chain to explore emerging technologies, market opportunities, and the future of this critical sector.
Michael joined a high-profile panel on biosurfactants, moderated by Doris De Guzman of Green D Market Analytics, a globally recognized expert on the market for green chemistry and renewable chemicals. Alongside leaders from Sironix Renewables and BioReNuva, Dr Fielding shared insights into Dot Ingredients’ unique approach to surfactant innovation: leveraging cellulose particle emulsifiers to deliver sustainable solutions without compromising performance.
“There’s growing demand for bio-based surfactants, but sustainability alone won’t drive adoption. Our goal at Dot Ingredients is to deliver natural, cost-effective ingredients that meet or exceed the performance benchmarks set by synthetic surfactants, and at cost parity,” said Fielding.
The panel highlighted the diverse pathways companies are pursuing in the biosurfactants space – from Dot’s physical transformation of cellulose, to metabolic fermentation and precision microbial engineering by BioReNuva and Sironix, as well as many others. Panelists discussed the challenges of commercialization, noting that while some companies are scaling production, most bio-based surfactants remain in pilot phases.
Dr Fielding emphasized the importance of collaboration with established industry participants to understand market needs and regulatory realities.
“Brand owners are eager for novel bio-based ingredients, but as we’re from outside the traditional surfactants industry, we appreciate insights on performance requirements and regulatory pathways to ensure these innovations reach the market” he added.
The ICIS World Surfactants Conference continues to serve as the premier forum for surfactant manufacturers, feedstock providers, technology developers, and brand owners to connect, share insights, and shape the future of the industry. Dot Ingredients’ participation underscores the company’s commitment to advancing high-performance, sustainable alternatives across the sector.