Firmenich signs deal with Layn to grow its natural sweeteners offer

Firmenich has entered a strategic agreement with Layn Natural Ingredients, a China-based producer of plant-based sweeteners, flavours and botanicals.

Switzerland-headquartered Firmenich said the deal will give it access to a wide range of natural sweeteners and taste modulation extracts.

Layn uses extraction technologies to produce a range of natural sweeteners and extracts, such as monk fruit and stevia, for which Firmenich will have the worldwide rights.

Under the terms of the agreement, Firmenich will become the exclusive distributor of Layn’s natural sweetener ingredients for all international markets outside of China and for its key customers in China, while Layn will continue to service its existing clients for the duration of those commitments.

Firmenich said it is now actively involved across the entire natural sweetener value chain, from the early stages of agronomy to developing foods and beverages of the future. The agreement aims to ensure the highest quality, as well as the most innovative, traceable and responsibly sourced raw materials.

Firmenich added that it will combine Layn’s natural sweetener ingredients with its taste modulation technologies and flavours to create integrated taste solutions with a sugar-like sweetness profile and mouthfeel.

Gilbert Ghostine, CEO of Firmenich, said: “This critical milestone strengthens our leadership and capabilities in taste, to best support our customers in shaping natural and healthier products for consumers to enjoy.”

Ben Jun Qin, chairman of Layn Natural Ingredients, added: “We are delighted to partner with Firmenich and to build on their expertise and scale to amplify our market coverage worldwide.

“This agreement will allow Layn to better serve our existing customers and reach many new ones, allowing us to invest more in agronomy and in the extraction of high-performance natural ingredients.”

The deal sees Firmenich continue its expansion in Asia after launching a culinary discovery centre in Bangkok, Thailand, earlier this year to serve as its hub for Southeast Asia.