On 30 September 2026, Phodé celebrated its 30th anniversary in Terssac, joined by its customers, partners and employees. Founded in 1996, the group now employs 112 people, recorded growth of more than 10% in 2025 and exports more than 70% of its production to 42 countries. Succession, growth, a new industrial site and a three-year innovation plan: the anniversary marks both a time to reflect and a fresh start.
An evening focused on science and innovation
Nearly 180 guests attended the event, whose programme included a fascinating talk by neuroscientist Hirac Gurden on the links between smell and learning, echoing Phodé’s longstanding expertise in flavouring.
Pierre Etienne, Chairman, looked back at the key milestones in Phodé’s journey before presenting the group’s ambitions. The evening continued with a drinks reception and an opportunity to discover the latest innovations.
Thirty years of expertise dedicated to wellbeing
Founded in 1996 by veterinarian and entrepreneur Daniel Eclache, Phodé develops flavourings and ingredients based on plant-derived active compounds to improve wellbeing, behaviour and performance. A pioneer in exploring the impact of olfactory molecules on the brain, Phodé draws on this unique expertise while opening up new avenues for research and innovation.
Initially recognised in the animal nutrition sector, the group has gradually extended its expertise to nutraceuticals, sports nutrition, food and drink, and odour nuisance management. All solutions are designed and manufactured in the Tarn region.
This expertise is built on three complementary pillars:
- flavouring expertise;
- expertise in natural active compounds and plant extracts;
- the development of specific dosage forms.
Innovation remains central to the company’s strategy, underpinned by strong scientific expertise and numerous research partnerships (CNRS, INSERM and international universities).
A successful succession and dynamic growth
In May 2026, following the sale of its founder’s shares and his retirement, Pierre Etienne became Chairman of Phodé, while Turenne Santé strengthened its position by becoming the majority shareholder.
Daniel Eclache’s first employee, Pierre Etienne is driven by a deep passion for flavouring and industry. Alongside a committed management team, he intends to ensure the group’s long-term future while preserving its DNA.
“Our ambition is to become a global benchmark for sensory solutions that support the wellbeing of living beings, while maintaining our production in France.” Pierre Etienne.
This new structure supports sustained growth. Following an increase of more than 10% in 2025, the company had already recorded growth of more than 15% by the end of August 2026. Active across five continents, the group continues its international expansion while maintaining strong local roots.
New investment to prepare for the future
To support its development, Phodé will take possession in October 2026 of a new 2,300 m² building close to its existing facilities, designed to expand its logistics capacity and support its industrial projects.
At the same time, the company is rolling out a three-year innovation plan, with new developments expected each year. The first examples in 2026 are Cristalfeed POP,a new generation of flavourings for animal feed, and AROMIND, a range of functional flavourings designed to support emotional wellbeing.
The company has also announced the launch of a new CIFRE doctoral research project focused on objectively assessing the effects of complex flavouring formulations on human behaviour using MRI brain imaging. A first for Phodé, it marks an important milestone in the company’s development in the human health market.
“We have inherited a history, trust and a responsibility. It is now up to us to carry them forward. With thirty years of experience behind us, true to the founding vision and Phodé’s identity, we are collectively ready to write this new chapter.”
Pierre Etienne, Chairman of Phodé
