Atrium to deliver AquaCap technology to more clients
developer and manufacturer of liquid filled capsules, and intends
to deliver the novel technology to more dietary supplement
formulators.
The Canadian manufacturer and marketer of science-based products for the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, chemical and nutrition industries will acquire Pennsylvania-based AquaCap for a total of $21.5m. AquaCap's liquid delivery technology was originally developed for the pharmaceutical industry and allows for the liquid filling of hard two-piece capsules with oils, vitamins, minerals, amino acids and herbal extracts.
Atrium will now make this technology for excipient-free clear colored capsules available to more clients, as well as develop new products of its own.
"Since AquaCap is not at full capacity, we will offer its services to other companies," Atrium chief financial officer John Dempsey told NutraIngredients-USA.com.
The company said it is looking to develop operational and commercial synergies with the help of AquaCap's team of 60 employees.
"We already have several new product launches scheduled based on this unique technology," said Richard Bordeleau, president of Atrium's health & nutrition division. Atrium has not given any details as to what these products will be.
The Aquacap technology pumps liquids into gelatin or vegetable-based capsules (for which Atrium said there is a growing demand) that are then band sealed. According to Atrium, this encapsulation process of liquids provides for better absorption, stability and bioavailability of nutrients while avoiding use of excipients often required in manufacturing of dry capsules or tablets products.
"Atrium will not be the sole user of this technology," said Dempsey. "AquaCap currently has other customers who we will continue to serve."
Atrium has over 560 employees and operates four manufacturing facilities.
