Symrise Partners with HBC to Expand Marine-Based Health Ingredients Portfolio
Key Insights
Symrise AG (search) has formed a strategic partnership with Norwegian company HBC to expand its health category portfolio with clinically-proven marine ingredients derived from Atlantic salmon.
HBC plans to triple its production capacity by upgrading its Berkak facility into a state-of-the-art enzymatic hydrolysis plant for sustainable marine protein processing.
The partnership will leverage Symrise's global market presence to promote HBC's scientifically-validated products, which have demonstrated benefits in metabolic, immune, gut, and mobility health.
Symrise AG (search) has entered into a strategic partnership with Norwegian manufacturer Hofseth BioCare (search) (HBC) to strengthen its position in the human health and pet nutrition markets through innovative marine-based ingredients. The collaboration, announced on February 21, 2025, focuses on sustainable, clinically-proven ingredients derived from Norwegian Atlantic salmon.
The partnership marks a significant expansion of Symrise's health category portfolio, particularly in the marine ingredients sector. HBC's expertise lies in transforming salmon industry by-products into high-value bioactive ingredients through proprietary upcycling technology.
Strategic Growth and Innovation
HBC has outlined ambitious expansion plans, including the transformation of its Berkak facility into an advanced enzymatic hydrolysis plant. This upgrade is expected to triple the company's current production capacity, enabling broader market reach and scale.
Dr. Jean-Yves Parisot, CEO of Symrise AG (search), emphasized the strategic fit: "This partnership with HBC is testament to their unique footprint and differentiated science. Their investments in clinical studies demonstrate proven benefits in key categories of metabolic health, immune health, gut health and mobility, setting them apart."
Innovative Product Portfolio
HBC's product line includes several scientifically validated ingredients:
- ProGo®: A bioactive peptide and collagen mixture that enhances iron metabolism and energy levels
- OmeGo®: A whole salmon oil containing comprehensive fatty acid profiles, showing benefits for immune and respiratory health
- CalGo®/NT-II®: A salmon bone powder containing calcium hydroxyapatite and undenatured collagen for bone and joint health
Sustainability and Market Impact
The partnership aligns with Symrise's "One Care" initiative and its recently established Global Marine Platform, which explores ocean-based opportunities. HBC's sustainable approach involves upcycling fresh salmon offcuts into bioactive ingredients with demonstrated health benefits.
Jon Olav Odegard, representing HBC, highlighted the partnership's potential: "Symrise have been a key partner for us already and we are very excited to move ahead as they will help transform our scale and market access with their well-established market presence."
Scientific Foundation and Future Development
The collaboration emphasizes scientific validation, with HBC's ingredients backed by clinical studies and patents. The partnership will focus on:
- Expanding global market reach
- Developing new products
- Enhancing public awareness of marine ingredients' health benefits
- Strengthening HBC's position in science-led marine nutrition
This strategic alliance positions both companies to capitalize on growing demand in human health and premium pet markets, while maintaining their commitment to sustainability and scientific excellence.