VIF Systems, a French company specializing in vertical farming, is making news with its strategic partnership with Limagrain. The aim of this collaboration is to develop innovative solutions for the fast-growing urban agriculture sector. Founded in 2021 in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, VIF Systems is positioned as a major player in the production of microgreens and aromatic herbs in controlled environments.
Cutting-edge technology for urban agriculture
VIF Systems stands out for its innovative approach to growing plants in urban environments. The company has developed controlled-environment growing solutions, using cutting-edge technologies such as :
- Vertical hydroponics
- Horticultural LEDs
- Closed systems
These innovations enable pesticide-free, water- and resource-efficient production. This approach is perfectly in line with the current trend towards sustainable and responsible agriculture.
The VIF Systems production site in Vorey-sur-Arzon covers 3,000 m² and employs 23 people. This state-of-the-art facility enables the company to produce a varied range of microfoams and aromatic herbs, meeting the specific needs of its professional customers.
| Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Cultivation in a controlled environment | Year-round production |
| Vertical hydroponics | Saves space and resources |
| Horticultural LEDs | Optimized plant growth |
| Closed systems | Reduced environmental impact |
Diversification and expansion: VIF Systems’ ambitions
VIF Systems doesn’t just produce microfoams. The company has developed two distinct brands to cater for different market segments:
1. Vif: This brand focuses on the production of high-end microfoams for chefs. The exceptional quality of these products earned VIF Systems a place as official supplier to Team France at the prestigious Bocuse d’Or competition.
2. Moon Farmer: This brand offers turnkey production solutions for farmers wishing to diversify their activities. Moon Farmer enables farmers to produce microgreens all year round, similarly offering a significant income supplement.
VIF Systems’ ambition is not to replace traditional agriculture, but rather to complement it. The company aims to secure food production and offer new opportunities to farmers, particularly in regions with difficult climatic conditions.
A strategic partnership to conquer new markets
The recent partnership between VIF Systems and Limagrain marks an important step in the company’s development. Limagrain, the French seed giant, has acquired a 25% stake in VIF Systems. This strategic alliance aims to :
- Deploy VIF Systems’ technology to a larger number of farmers
- Accelerate research and development, particularly in the field of LEDs and agronomy
- Examine new markets, such as French overseas departments and territories and arid zones
This partnership enables VIF Systems to benefit from Limagrain’s expertise and network, while retaining its agility and capacity for innovation. The aim is to offer solutions adapted to the challenges of modern agriculture, such as food safety and the sustainability of farming practices.
Innovative applications beyond food
While the production of microfoams for the food industry remains VIF Systems’ core business, the company is also exploring other promising applications for its products. Microfoams, rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds, find outlets in a variety of sectors:
The food industry: microfoams can be incorporated into sauces, aromatic oils or soups, adding a touch of freshness and originality to processed products.
Cosmetics: Some microfoams, such as watercress and radish, are rich in antioxidants. They can be used in the formulation of anti-aging creams or skin care products, offering natural properties much sought-after by consumers.
Nutritional supplements: The high concentration of nutrients in microfoams makes them ideal ingredients for nutritional supplements, particularly for their antioxidant and detoxifying properties.
These new applications open up interesting prospects for VIF Systems, enabling it to diversify its revenues and seek out new markets. In this way, the company can capitalize on its expertise in controlled cultivation to meet a wide range of needs, going far beyond simple food production.
Finally, VIF Systems has established itself as an innovative player in urban agriculture, combining cutting-edge technology with respect for the environment. Its partnership with Limagrain and its ambitions to diversify point to a promising future for this young French company. By offering solutions adapted to the challenges of modern agriculture, VIF Systems is helping to shape the future of our food and farming practices.
