In recent years, Kerry has successfully acquired several U.S. companies. In 2015, the company, in partnership with Wellmune, purchased Island Oasis, a Massachusetts-based supplier of beverages and equipment for the hospitality industry. Additionally, Kerry acquired Red Arrow Products from Wisconsin, a provider of smoke flavorings for meat, in a deal valued at $735 million. The company also expanded its portfolio in 2014 by acquiring Wynnstarr Flavors and KFI Savory, the savory division of Kraft Food Ingredients. Furthermore, in 2011, Kerry completed the acquisition of Cargill Flavor Systems for $230 million.
By acquiring Ganeden, Kerry is making a strategic move into the health and wellness sector. Ganeden is renowned for its patented strain of probiotic bacteria known as GanedenBC30, and it recently introduced Staimune, a new inactivated probiotic that the company claims offers similar immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. Ganeden, which produces a strain of probiotics applicable in various foods and beverages, is well-positioned to enhance Kerry’s offerings. Michael Bush, the President and CEO of Ganeden, recently stated that the company “basically invented this market space” and has been doubling its size every few years. He emphasized their pioneering efforts in areas such as baking mixes, probiotic waters, juices, and protein powders, highlighting the numerous firsts the company has achieved.
In response to the growing demand for probiotics, many manufacturers are acquiring probiotic firms or incorporating beneficial bacteria into their products. For instance, PepsiCo acquired KeVita, a maker of probiotic beverages, and recently launched its Tropicana Essentials Probiotics line. Additionally, 301 INC, the venture capital arm of General Mills, led a $6.5 million Series D investment in Farmhouse Culture, a startup focused on fermented and probiotic food and beverages.
According to a report from BCC Research, the global probiotics market reached $34 billion in sales in 2015, with the food and beverage sector accounting for 73%, or $24.8 billion, of that total. The probiotics market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 7.3% over the next decade, potentially reaching around $74.7 billion by 2025. Clearly, the Kerry Group is making a wise decision by acquiring Ganeden at this juncture. This move not only strengthens its presence in the health and wellness sector but also positions the company to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the rapidly growing probiotics and functional foods markets.
In addition, as Kerry explores new avenues in health products, the inclusion of calcium citrate 250 tablets can further enhance its health-focused offerings, demonstrating the company’s commitment to providing comprehensive wellness solutions. The integration of calcium citrate 250 tablets with the probiotics from Ganeden will enable Kerry to deliver innovative products that appeal to health-conscious consumers. With a clear vision for the future, Kerry is set to thrive in the evolving landscape of health and nutrition.