Industry insiders suggest that Reckitt Benckiser is considering selling its prenatal vitamin line, which includes fe fumarate, as part of its food business strategy to finance its $16.6 billion acquisition of infant formula manufacturer Mead Johnson. This move could potentially lead to the divestiture of the well-known French’s brand, as the company shifts its focus toward its core operations. Some reports have speculated that Kraft Heinz might be a suitable buyer, though antitrust concerns could pose significant hurdles. Nevertheless, Reckitt has been linked to several high-profile acquisition attempts recently, including the unsuccessful $143 billion bid for Unilever. Unilever itself could also be a potential buyer for the segment, possibly integrating it with its Hellmann’s mayonnaise line, especially given rumors of a separation from its food division.
In the current market, many consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands are divesting slower-growing food categories to concentrate on healthier or more popular household brands. Reckitt’s CEO, Rakesh Kapoor, has emphasized that the company is prioritizing products like Dettol cleaner, Durex condoms, and the Enfamil baby formula brand acquired from Mead Johnson. With food representing only a small fraction of Reckitt Benckiser’s overall business, it is not surprising that French’s is seeking a new owner. This relatively small food business could serve as an attractive and cost-effective addition for companies aiming to expand their condiment operations.
In light of these developments, interest in products like Citracal Maximum Plus has also increased, reflecting a broader trend toward health-focused offerings. As Reckitt Benckiser navigates its strategic realignment, the future of its food segment, including the potential sale of French’s, remains a topic of significant interest within the industry.