BASF Increases Beta-Carotene Prices by 12%

The price increase includes all products for human and animal nutrition. All existing contractual obligations will be honored.

14 Jul 2010 --- BASF will globally increase the prices for beta-carotene and its derivatives canthaxanthin and apocarotenal by 12% with immediate effect or as existing commitments allow. The price increase includes all products for human and animal nutrition. All existing contractual obligations will be honored.

Beta-carotene and its derivates are carotenoids naturally found in vegetables, fish or crustaceans. BASF is a leading producer of nature-identical carotenoids. In human nutrition they are used for the coloring and fortification of beverages and foods as well as in dietary supplements. In animal nutrition carotenoids are used as feed additives to intensify the pigmentation of egg yolk and fish or to enhance animal fertility amongst others.

Yesterday hydrocolloid supplier CP Kelco said it will raise prices up to 10% across all product lines, effective August 1, 2010, or as contracts allow. Major products lines affected include carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), pectin, xanthan gum and carrageenan, as well as select specialty biopolymers.