Glanbia Nutritionals acquires Sterling Technology, jumps on dairy bioactive solutions

17 May 2022 --- Glanbia Nutritionals has acquired Sterling Technology, thereby taking up major space on the bovine colostrum market. The agreement was valued at US$60 million, plus deferred consideration, to expand Glanbia’s presence within the immunity and gut health spaces.

Glanbia Nutritionals CEO Brian Phelan notes: “The acquisition of Sterling Technology enhances our bioactive solutions portfolio to support our customers’ needs and growth ambitions.”

“We are looking forward to bringing on board the Sterling team and their expertise with this highly beneficial ingredient.”

Demand for bovine colostrum is emerging within the immunity and gut health segments, according to the company. In particular, Asia markets record rising demand for the ingredient within pediatric and medical nutrition, sports nutrition and dietary supplements.

Bovine colostrum is the first milk calves are meant to get when they are born.Last year, nutrition company Pantheryx spotlighted colostrum as a functional food for gut health and well-being. According to one of their experts, colostrum oligosaccharides can act as prebiotics that feed beneficial microbes within the gut.

Spotlighting colostrum
Colostrum is the first form of milk produced by mammals’ mammary glands that has a higher dietary value than mature milk. It contains a lower fat and carbohydrate content and has fewer calories than mature milk.

The ingredient can also support immune function, gut health and the gut microbiome, with a high concentration of beneficial nutrients, vitamins and bioactive compounds that ensure newborn mammals receive the nutrition they need in early life. 

Last year, Glanbia highlighted how snacking and food rituals have evolved amid the COVID-19 global pandemic.

The company has recorded strong financial results and rising profits as it prepares for rising inflation in the fallout from the war in Ukraine. So far this year, food and nutrition companies have struggled to weather through supply-chain shortages and logistics constraints as a result of the ongoing conflict.

In light of the global food price crisis, experts have recommended diverse, resilient food systems be constructed around the world.

Edited by Olivia Nelson