March 29, 2017

Kemin acquires algae-based beta-glucan technology

Kemin Industries has acquired beta-glucan manufacturing technology from US-based Algal Scientific.

"The acquisition of this beta-glucan manufacturing technology, developed by Algal Scientific, will provide Kemin with capabilities and products needed to further expand our antibiotic alternative portfolio for animals, and offer important scientific advancements for humans and pets," said Dr. Chris Nelson, president and CEO of Kemin Industries. "We are focused on ways to rapidly impact our customers' business through strategic acquisitions of differentiating technology."

Headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan, Algal Scientific focuses on solutions for animal and human nutrition using a unique algae production system. This technology produces highly concentrated products to support gut health in both animals and humans. These products are available for sale in many regions globally, and Kemin will work to expand product registrations immediately.

"As a start-up, Algal Scientific invented this technology and extensively researched the science behind the differentiated beta-glucan," said John Tucker, CEO of Algal Scientific. "Kemin is uniquely suited to exploit this technology and offer advanced products to customers globally."

Kemin welcomes the technology inventors and nearly a dozen new employees with expertise in both production and research to the Kemin team. Kemin plans to continue researching these products to further expand application of the technology.