Natural colors: Oterra completes Secna Natural Ingredients Group acquisition

29 Jun 2021 --- Oterra, formerly known as Chr. Hansen Natural Colors A/S, closed its acquisition of Secna Natural Ingredients Group S.L. This is the first acquisition for Oterra, which itself was purchased by private investment firm EQT in March when Chr. Hansen divested its natural colors business (Chr. Hansen Natural Colors).

Oterra also recently announced its intention to pursue a second acquisition, Diana Food’s colors business.    

On the acquisition trail
Speaking to FoodIngredientsFirst about the Diana Foods acquisition, Odd Erik Hansen, CEO of Oterra, says research shows that consumer demand for, and interest in, natural ingredients is at “an all-time high.” 

“As a consequence, food manufacturers want a consistent supply of safe, reliable natural ingredients and natural colors. We are in a unique position to help manufacturers answer that demand,” he says.

“We are on a strong growth journey with strong backing, and as such are always looking for the right opportunities to strengthen our Natural colors platform. The combination of these factors makes it the perfect time to combine forces with Diana.”

With the acquisition of Secna Natural Ingredients, Oterra, will further enhance its value offerings to customers worldwide, notes the company. 

Organic boost
Notable portfolio additions include Secna’s anthocyanins from black carrots and grape, as well as caramel, and an organic range. 

After a period of time, the Secna group will be fully incorporated into Oterra. 

“This is an exciting time for the industry as demand for natural colors continues to increase. We expect the addition of Secna to be a meaningful contributor to Oterra’s growth in 2021 and beyond, as we solidify our position as the world’s leading supplier of natural colors. We look forward to offering both our, and Secna’s, customers a fully integrated go-to-market service soon,” Hansen says.

With this acquisition, Oterra, will further enhance its value offerings to customers worldwide.

Approximately 80 Secna employees, based in Spain and Italy, will join Oterra. 

Edited by Gaynor Selby