Bioriginal on the acquisition trail

Essential fatty acids expert Bioriginal is embarking on an aggressive acquisitions drive this year in a bid to boost its portfolio of nutritional ingredients.

European boss Johan Kamphuis said he was "actively pursuing" science-based companies with patent-protected ingredients and technologies. He added: "While we aim to be number one in essential fatty acid (EFA) rich oils, from fish, to flax, borage, evening primrose, GLA (gamma linolenic acid) and CLA (conjugated linoleic acid), we also want to broaden our portfolio."

However, in-house research was also critical, with several long-term projects on functional lipids and new delivery systems for these ingredients currently in the pipeline, he said.

"Despite all the hype, the volume of EFAs used as food ingredients is still relatively small, with nutritional supplements by far the biggest market. By region, the largest opportunity is probably in Asia, with many customers working closely with Bioriginal on plans to launch in this market. We're growing by 30% a year and we're also very profitable."