Elanco set to acquire ChemGen as food demand becomes a top priority

Animal health firm Elanco is to acquire US bioscience firm ChemGen for an undisclosed amount.

Elanco is the animal health division of biotech giant Eli Lilly, which recently unveiled plans to build a new 22,000 sq ft facility at its operation in Dunderrow, Co Cork. The transaction is subject to customary US closing conditions.

Senior vice-president of Eli Lilly and president of Elanco Jeff Simmons said: “Meeting the growing demand for food is one of the most critical issues of our time. The acquisition of ChemGen and its premiere enzyme business further underscores Elanco’s commitment to provide our customers with leading animal productivity solutions

“ChemGen’s strong presence in the poultry and swine markets in North America and Asia is well suited to Elanco’s existing business, while Elanco’s presence in Latin America and Europe represent growth opportunities.”

A bioscience firm with bases in Maryland and Indiana, ChemGen specialises in developing of innovative feed enzyme products that improve the efficiency of poultry, egg, and meat production.

Feed enzymes are naturally occurring digestive enhancers that help animals unlock and use nutrients in feed.

ChemGen president Bernie Treidl said: “Enzymes are naturally-occurring proteins that have been widely used and accepted in many industries for decades. ChemGen has been at work over the past 25 years improving the manufacturing and delivery process of enzymes for feed uses.

“Our focus at ChemGen is to develop innovative feed enzyme products, which aligns well with Elanco’s goal of using technology solutions to meet the world’s growing demand for food. My team at ChemGen looks forward to joining Elanco and working together to meet that goal.”