Frutarom acquires AB-Fortis®, a patented micro-encapsulation iron

Frutarom Industries Ltd. (“Frutarom”) announces the acquisition, via one of its subsidiaries, of the AB-Fortis^® activities including a patent-protected micro-encapsulation technology that enables delivery of iron with increased biological absorption.

AB-Fortis is an advanced encapsulated iron system for delivering the recommended daily amount of iron in a single dose. It helps consumers avoid the common negative aspects and side effects of iron supplements, including metallic aftertaste, dental darkening, gastrointestinal upset, and nausea. AB-Fortis iron can be incorporated into fat-rich matrices, such as milk or yogurt, without causing oxidation. It is heat- and pH-stable. It will not accelerate oxidation of other components of a formulation, such as folate or omega-3 fatty acids. This makes it ideal for functional foods, infant nutrition and food supplements.

Iron deficiency constitutes a global health problem in developed and developing countries alike, and is particularly prevalent in children under the age of 6, for whom iron deficiency is associated with impaired psychomotor and cognitive development, as well as in pregnant women suffering from excess fatigue due to iron deficiency. Among these groups, the percentage of population suffering from iron deficiency reaches 20 % in developed countries and up to 60 % in some developing countries.

Frutarom acquired the technology and expanded its activity in the market after four years of experience developing applications in a wide range of food and beverage products.