BENEO, Wacker expand ingredients portfolio with launch of human milk oligosaccharide

GERMANY – Beneo, a manufacturer of dairy ingredients, has partnered with Wacker to unveil the human milk oligosaccharide (HMO) 2’-Fucosyllactose X(2’-FL) to enhance early-life nutrition.

This breakthrough ingredient, which closely mimics components found in breast milk, will first be available in Europe before expanding to other markets.

As stated by Beneo, the new ingredient will provide additional volumes of HMOs to the market, helping to secure supply and quality for both large and smaller manufacturers of infant formulas.

HMOs act as prebiotics in a class of their own, supporting the development of healthy gut microbiota, bolstering infants’ immune systems, and contributing to overall health outcomes such as improved metabolic health and neurodevelopment.

2’-FL belongs to a structurally and biologically diverse group of complex indigestible carbohydrates, which are the third major component in breast milk following lactose and lipids.

These unique components are crucial for the development of milk formulas that achieve a profile as close as possible to breast milk which is widely recognised as the gold standard in infant nutrition. Accordingly, 2’-FL complements BENEO’s portfolio of health promoting ingredients for babies, toddlers and beyond.

Olivier Roques, CEO at BENEO comments: “The launch of 2’-FL and the associated addition of HMOs to BENEO’s established and well recognized portfolio of scientifically proven prebiotics is strategic. Particularly for the infant nutrition market it provides promising opportunities for highly effective combinations. We are pleased about the collaboration with such an experienced partner like WACKER and are looking forward to the joint journey for HMOs.”

Based on the agreement, WACKER will oversee production, leveraging its reputable expertise in biotechnology. It will produce 2’-FL in Europe using precision fermentation via a patented strain.

Meanwhile, BENEO will be responsible for the commercialisation, making the most of its comprehensive knowledge in scientific research as well as of the global market for infant nutrition.

Mathias Wiedemann, President of WACKER Biosolutions affirms: “We are excited about this new partnership. It will bring together WACKER’s expertise and production track record with BENEO’s thorough market understanding. Together, we are set to meet the high demands of customers in the infant nutrition sector.”

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