DSM and Kemin pledge lutein growth

DSM already has an agreement to offer FloraGLO products made with crystalline lutein, but the terms of the new deal mean this will now be done exclusively through DSM.

The worldwide lutein market is already forecast to creep closer to the €100m mark and stepping up lutein supply of Kemin's patented FloraGLO will help both companies grab a larger slice of the pie.

Strategic importance Kemin Health president Rodney Ausich said: "Lutein is strategically important to both of our businesses, and we are committed to significantly growing the global lutein market for years to come.

"We are convinced our customers and consumers will benefit from the many synergies that will result from Kemin and DSM working more closely together, especially by leveraging Kemin's expertise in the molecular knowledge of lutein and DSM's unique formulation technology."

It is not yet known how much extra money either company will make out of the deal.

Kemin added that the National Eye Institute is using FloraGLO in a "widely anticipated" study on the impact of lutein and other nutrients on age-related eye disease.

Lutein value Indeed, both companies say the strengthened partnership will help aid future lutein growth.

A report this summer from analysts Frost & Sullivan said the global lutein market is set to hit $124.5 million (€93 million) in 2013.

Last year they valued the market at $105.1 million (€78.4 million).

According to the report, manufacturers need to address this growing maturity in dietary supplements by identifying new and potentially lucrative application segments that offer opportunities for the continued growth of the lutein market.

Lutein, a nutrient found in various foods including green leafy vegetables and egg yolk, has a ten-year history in the dietary supplement market as a nutrient to reduce the risk of age related macular degeneration (AMD).

AMD affects the central part of the retina called the macula, which controls fine vision, leaving sufferers with only limited sight.

AMD affects over 30 million people worldwide, and is the leading cause of blindness in people over 50.

The main strut of research behind lutein remains its benefits for eye health, which augurs well for the future of the ingredient, says the report, since eye health ranks among the top five health concerns in the United States and various European countries.

There has also been a wealth of research into lutein's positive effect on boasting the skin's hydration and elasticity.