"This acquisition underscores our commitment to grow FMC's new natural colors portfolio, and represents another important step in our Vision 2015 growth strategy," said Pierre Brondeau, president, CEO and chairman, FMC Corporation.  "We expect the high-growth, natural colors market to reach well over $1 billion by 2015.  The addition of Phytone's unique color technology, coupled with our acquisition last year of Chilean-based South Pole Biogroup, greatly strengthens our position in this exciting market."

There is a growing demand from consumers that favor natural ingredients from renewable and sustainable sources, according to Mike Smith, division manager, FMC BioPolymer.  Consumer product goods companies are seeking reliable sources of natural ingredients with consistent functionality, including natural colors, to meet their product development needs.

"Phytone further expands FMC's natural colors capabilities and augments FMC BioPolymer's industry leading, naturally sourced specialty ingredients that are used across food, pharmaceutical and personal care markets for texture, binding, stabilization and appearance," said Smith.

"We're excited to welcome Phytone to FMC," said Smith.  "The company brings more than 20 years of leadership and deep experience in the natural colors and nutraceuticals industry, and will extend FMC's natural color formulation and processing capabilities.  Furthermore, Phytone is ideally situated in the United Kingdom, which will enhance our service to European color customers."

Phytone's manufacturing, development labs and headquarters office are located in Staffordshire, U.K.  Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

 From the June 13, 2012, Prepared Foods’ Daily News