Kemin and DSM expand partnership to include natural zeaxanthin
Companies to offer naturally-sourced zeaxanthin and lutein
Kemin, the pioneer of FloraGLO Lutein, and DSM, the creator of Optisharp Zeaxanthin, are expanding their longstanding lutein partnership to deliver high-quality, naturally-sourced zeaxanthin. Optisharp Natural, made from Kemin Industries’ ZeaONE brand of zeaxanthin, is said to offer benefits for eye health, cognition and skin health.
Under the agreement, DSM will serve as Kemin Industries’ exclusive and global zeaxanthin distributor for human nutrition, and Kemin will act as DSM’s exclusive supplier of naturally-sourced zeaxanthin crystalline material. DSM will also invest in high performance product form innovations for dietary supplement and food applications.
The zeaxanthin ingredients will be marketed under DSM’s Optisharp brand.
Optisharp Natural is formulated from patent protected hybrid marigold flowers, which are licensed exclusively by Kemin, and provide the same free-form of zeaxanthin found in most fruits and vegetables.
This new collaboration solidifies both organisations’ positions as leaders in the eye health market
Anita Norian, President of Kemin's human nutrition and health division, said the collaboration is a win for the customers of both companies.
'This new collaboration solidifies both organisations’ positions as leaders in the eye health market, facilitating further development for both lutein and zeaxanthin,' she added.
'Customers will be offered easy-to-use, convenient formulations that combine the two complementary ingredients, lutein and zeaxanthin.'
Will Black, DSM Vice President of Marketing for Human Nutrition & Health, North America, added: 'As a leading provider of zeaxanthin, DSM is pleased to expand its relationship with Kemin and offer an additional ‘natural’ choice as part of our existing Optisharp portfolio.
'There is a significant body of evidence supporting the positive effects of lutein and zeaxanthin on eye health and visual function, both through the protection of specific eye tissues and by increasing visual performance.
'We continue to support further clinical research to reinforce the scientific basis for the positive impact of lutein and zeaxanthin on eye health, as well as the benefits that zeaxanthin provides for cognition and skin health in its role as an antioxidant.'
