Balchem acquires contract food manufacturer Zumbro River Brand

US-based ingredients manufacturer Balchem has acquired contract food manufacturer Zumbro River Brand for its nutrition and health department.

Headquartered in Albert Lea, Minnesota, Zumbro River Brands produces and distributes agglomerated and extruded products for the food and beverage industry.

Its product portfolio includes protein and speciality extruded snacks, cereals, and crisps. It markets these under the brands Z-Crisps, Whey-Os, Whey-Vs and Z-Texx Complete.

Balchem chairman, president and CEO Ted Harris said: “Zumbro’s products, brands, and manufacturing capabilities will further enhance our portfolio of solutions for our customers in the food and beverage industry.

“In particular, the unique high protein products and extrusion manufacturing capabilities that Zumbro has developed will expand our ability to provide custom solutions for the higher protein nutritional needs of the market today.

“We are excited to bring these technologies, and the full line of Balchem solutions, to all of our customers.”

The company will become part of Balchem’s human nutrition and health department. This offers customised food, key nutrients and beverage ingredient systems for the supplement and food industries.

Zumbro River Brands CEO Pam Sander said: “Zumbro’s rapid growth in plant-based proteins and better-for-you snacks was achieved thanks to our dedicated, innovative employees.

“We’re excited to be joining Balchem, an industry leader that shares our vision for the tremendous opportunities for these products, and can help to scale these eco- and health-friendly choices to the broader market.”

Neither company has divulged financial details of the acquisition.