Angel Yeast Launches World’s First High-Altitude Probiotic Facility

Angel Yeast, a prominent player in the yeast and biotechnology sectors, has officially opened the world’s first high-altitude probiotic production facility in Shannan, China. The facility, operated by its subsidiary Xizang Angel Zhufeng Biotechnology Co., Ltd., recently completed its first shipment of the probiotic powder known as Bifidobacterium lactis XZ-BI36. This development marks a significant milestone in the field of microbial innovation.

Operations at the new facility take place under oxygen-free conditions, which He Hongchao, Assistant General Manager at Angel Zhufeng, claims sets a new standard for quality and safety in the industry. The inaugural shipment also included Lactiplantibacillus plantarum probiotic powder, with viable counts reaching into the trillions. The company has already achieved large-scale production of seven unique probiotic strains sourced from the plateau and developed over ten compound formulations. This extensive portfolio covers high-altitude probiotic blends, fermentation cultures for food applications, and microecological feed additives.

Innovation in Extreme Conditions

Angel Yeast’s commitment to scientific advancement is evident in its approach to developing probiotic strains from extreme environments. The facility integrates a comprehensive value chain, which includes strain collection and screening, leading to full-scale production. This strategy not only drives growth in the premium probiotic ingredients market but also aligns with sustainable practices that benefit local communities and prioritize environmental stewardship.

According to Dr. Tan Yali, Deputy General Manager of the Industrial Innovation Technology Center at Angel Yeast, the unique conditions of the Qing-Zang Plateau—such as high altitude, low oxygen levels, and intense ultraviolet exposure—have fostered an ecosystem rich in plateau-specific microbial resources. The probiotics developed by Angel Zhufeng are derived from diverse sources, including the gut microbiota of Xizang yaks and traditional fermented foods from local households.

Dr. Tan’s team has been proactive in collecting microbial samples, even exploring uninhabited regions like Ngari Prefecture at altitudes of up to 5,800 meters to study wild yaks. To date, they have preserved over 2,000 microbial strains and filed 56 patent applications globally.

Community Impact and Market Reception

The establishment of the Xizang facility began in 2020, despite facing challenges related to material sourcing, logistics, and the harsh local environment. Construction of the production line was completed in just one year, with operations commencing in June 2025. Since then, Angel Zhufeng has formed partnerships with over 30 distributors, indicating a strong market interest in its innovative probiotic products.

The facility has not only contributed to the local economy by generating jobs but has also focused on skill development within the community. Currently, 54 employees from Xizang make up 76% of the workforce. In 2024, more than 200 team members received professional training at Angel’s headquarters, while over 300 specialists in various fields traveled to Xizang to support operations.

The launch of the Angel Zhufeng probiotic facility exemplifies the successful application of biotechnology in challenging environments and serves as a model for integrating scientific innovation with corporate responsibility. By introducing strains sourced from extreme environments to global markets, Angel Yeast is expanding access to diverse and functional probiotic solutions, fostering sustainable growth and long-term innovation within the global nutrition industry.