Univar Solutions has announced an exclusive distribution partnership between its Foodology by Univar Solutions business and Ashland Inc.
Ashland is a global, consumer-focused additives and speciality ingredients company recognised for its leading cellulose ether derivatives and polyvinylpolypyrrolidone (PVPP).
Beginning January 1, 2026, the collaboration will introduce a wide array of cellulose ethers to the food and beverage industry in EMEA.
"Ashland's speciality ingredients are a strategic addition to our existing portfolio," said Aaron Lee, Global Vice President of Health & Nutrition for Univar Solutions.
"We're excited to broaden our cellulose ether offerings across EMEA, especially as the demand for alternative and plant-based proteins continues to accelerate in the nutrition space."
"Foodology by Univar Solutions is here to help customers succeed with the support of our global distribution network. We're excited to build a strong partnership that brings consistency and growth while working together to spark new ideas in food and beverage."
Why this matters
In today's food and beverage manufacturing, cellulose ethers play a versatile and functional role in next-generation applications serving diverse markets, including vegan foods and beverages, plant-based meats and gluten-free bakery products.
The new partnership covers a range of products, including methylcellulose (MC), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), ethylcellulose (EC) and PVPP.
"This new alliance between Ashland and Univar Solutions will provide significant value to our customers through enhanced product availability, faster delivery, specialised expertise and improved support services partnerships," said Alessandra Faccin Assis, Senior Vice President and General Manager Life Sciences and Intermediates for Ashland.
"Our products offer an array of functional benefits enabling groundbreaking advancements in food and beverage innovation and performance."
"We're excited to bring ingredients to food manufacturers in EMEA, aiming to meet the evolving health, convenience and quality expectations of their products."