Lesaffre buys baking products producer Delavau

French yeast manufacturer Lesaffre has acquired US-based baking ingredients producer Delavau Food Partners for an undisclosed sum.

Lesaffre intends to leverage the deal to broaden its capabilities by making use of Delavau’s custom formulation and baking development centre, which is located next to Rutgers University in central New Jersey.

Lesaffre Yeast president and CEO Tom Benner said: “This acquisition will enhance our performance ingredient offering to the baking market.

“The addition of Delavau to our existing capabilities will bring together great expertise to generate value for our customers.

“Our teams are excited about this combination and the possibilities it creates.”

Delavau is primarily engaged in the supply of food products to baking companies, including formulation and fortification solutions.

The company offers a wide range of baking products via its Encore line, which comprises enzyme-based and other dough improvement solutions that are designed to increase softness, shelf-life and mould inhibition, as well as dough relaxation and strength.

Delavau also offers a range of product fortification solutions under its Accent range.

Delavau Food Partners vice-president and general manager Jeff Billig said: “This is an excellent opportunity for Delavau employees and customers.

“Lesaffre is a company we respect, with a proven track record of success.”

Lesaffre previously acquired Alltech’s yeast extract facility in Serbia in February.

The acquisition is noted to support Lesaffre’s expansion strategy within the nutrition and health segment and is also expected to strengthen the company’s position in the yeast extract market.