Danisco Aquired Equity Stake In GraceLinc Ltd.

DENMARK, Copenhagen—Danisco agreed to acquire an equity stake in the New Zealand company GraceLinc Ltd. GraceLinc produces and markets Glucagel™, which is a naturally extracted barley beta-glucan. As a soluble dietary fibre ingredient, Glucagel has potential health benefits, particularly for cardiovascular health, digestive health and glucose and weight management. The cardiovascular health benefits of cereal beta glucans are attributable to their widely studied cholesterol-lowering properties. In addition, beta-glucans are low glycaemic and hence suitable for consumers seeking low impact carbohydrates including diabetics. Cereal beta-glucans have the potential to capture a significant share of the market for soluble dietary fibres which is estimated at more than EUR 400 million. The purchase is the start of a partnership aimed to make Glucagel a category leading functional food and dietary supplement ingredient. When key milestones—relating to completion of human intervention studies and process development—re met, Danisco plans to move to full ownership of the start-up company.
Glucagel can be used in a wide range of applications such as bakery, nutrition bars, beverages, dairy and dietary supplements. Food manufacturers, particularly in Europe and Asia, have shown strong interest in the product and food products containing Glucagel are already on the market in Europe.

www.Danisco.com