Qore, a collaboration between Cargill and HELM, has officially launched production of QIRA®, the first large-scale 1,4-butanediol (BDO) made from locally grown dent corn. The facility, which represents a significant step towards sustainable manufacturing, was unveiled during a grand opening on July 22, 2025, marking the completion of a $300-million project. This event was attended by local farmers, government officials, and key industry stakeholders.
QIRA® is a bio-based alternative to the fossil-derived BDO commonly used in consumer goods, and it’s made from annually renewable crops. The new facility is capable of producing 66,000 metric tons of QIRA® annually, sourced primarily from corn grown within 100 miles of Eddyville, Iowa. It is the world’s largest facility of its kind, positioned to address the rising demand for sustainable materials in everyday products.
Jon Veldhouse, CEO of Qore, highlighted the collaborative strength of the venture, stating,
Leveraging the agricultural expertise of Cargill and HELM’s global reach, QIRA® helps manufacturers reduce reliance on overseas supply chains, providing a transparent and reliable feedstock for their products.
Jon Veldhouse, CEO of Qore
Supporting Sustainability through Local Agriculture
The production of QIRA® emphasizes sustainability not just in the manufacturing process, but in its sourcing. The corn used is grown using regenerative agriculture practices, which aim to improve soil health and ecosystem resilience. These practices are a vital part of the supply chain, offering greater traceability and contributing to environmental goals.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds praised the project, calling it a “bold step forward” for both the state and the global supply chain. She emphasized how QIRA® represents an intersection of innovation and sustainability, making Iowa a key player in supplying renewable resources for the world’s growing consumer markets.
Applications Across Multiple Industries
QIRA® has a wide range of applications in industries such as fashion, automotive, electronics, packaging, and beauty. It can replace fossil-derived BDO in manufacturing processes, allowing companies to reduce their carbon footprint and provide more sustainable products to their consumers.
For instance, The LYCRA Company is integrating QIRA® into its LYCRA® fiber production, with the potential to cut carbon emissions by up to 44% compared to traditional fossil-based materials. BASF, a global leader in chemical innovation, has also signed a long-term supply agreement to use QIRA® in its existing product portfolio.
Steve Kuiper, an Iowa farmer, expressed pride in the role his community plays in this project. “By offering a bio-based alternative to fossil-based feedstock, Qore helps brands meet growing consumer demand for more sustainable and transparent products.”
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