LycoRed Acquires Carotenoid Producer Vitan

BEER-SHEVA, IsraelLycoRed acquired Vitan, Ltd., a carotenoid producer based in the Ukraine. Vitan was founded in 2002 and holds expertise in the fermentation of blakeslea trispora to create beta carotene and carotenoid biomass. This GMO-free biomass provides the raw material for beta-carotene-based products used in food, food fortifications and dietary supplements. Carotenoids are heralded for their deep antioxidant protection, particularly to the heart and the eyes.

LycoRed hopes the acquisition with strengthen its position in the global natural carotenoids market. With Vitan, LycoRed now operates as a fully backward-integrated manufacturer of natural colors and beadlets for dietary supplements. In October, the company announced the opening of its newest plant in China. LycroRed also has facilities in the United States, Europe and Israel.