August 19/Holzminden, Germany -- Symrise, a leading supplier of fragrances, active cosmetic ingredients and flavorings, has acquired a 20% stake in the U.S. biotechnology company Therapeutic Peptides Inc. (TPI), thus securing exclusive distribution rights for its cosmetic active ingredients.

In acquiring a stake in TPI, Symrise gains access to the group of active ingredients known as peptides, which the company can immediately offer to its customers in the international cosmetics industry. Peptides are used as anti-microbial substances and in anti-aging skin care products, for example, and stimulate hair growth.

“It is only just recently that peptides have been used in cosmetic products. We are delighted to be able to integrate these modern and very effective ingredients in our portfolio. With TPI, we have found a partner who is developing these ingredients at a scientifically exalted level and can offer ample expertise in this field,” stated Dr. Klaus Stanzl, president Scent & Care, Life Essentials. In connection with the Symrise shareholding in TPI, Klaus Stanzl has also been elected to its Supervisory Board.

With the Symrise stake, the Louisiana-based company Therapeutic Peptides Inc. will have fresh resources available for maintaining its intensive research work. “Symrise is for us the ideal partner. It opens up worldwide distribution opportunities for our substances,” declared Dr. Donald Owen, founder and managing director of TPI.

Symrise’s stake in TPI represents a further, strategically wise expansion of its portfolio of cosmetic ingredients. Exclusive distribution of modern and highly efficient peptides, whose effectiveness is scientifically proven, will enable the company to react to the growing demand from its customers in this field

From the September 15, 2008, Prepared Foods e-Flash