EXHIBIT 23.1
 
               CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
 
  We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" in the
Registration Statement (Form S-3) of Catalytica, Inc. for the Registration of
6,635,263 shares of its Common Stock and to the incorporation by reference
therein of our report dated January 28, 1997 with respect to the financial
statements of Catalytica, Inc. included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K/A) for
the year ended December 31, 1996 filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission.
 
                                                /s/ Ernst & Young LLP
                                          -------------------------------------
                                                    Ernst & Young LLP
 
San Jose, California
July 30, 1997