Called Universal Formulas, the initiative groups major letter vitamins that meet certain criteria and provide a level of uniformity BASF said will provide cost, communications and administrative benefits.
“With Universal Formulas, our customers can go on the market with their particular label claims – e.g. vegetarian or allergen-free for special diets, kosher or halal for religious and ethnic food preferences,” BASF said.
The initial portfolio of ingredients present in the package are vitamin A, D, E, K1, B12 as well as beta-carotene. The range may be expanded to include other offerings.
A BASF spokesperson said the aim of the program was to “make the lives of our customers easier, especially those that operate in multiple markets.”
NutraIngredients-USA.com was unable to determine whether pricing would be altered under the program.
BASF said all ingredients in the Universal Formulas range are:
- Vegetarian (non-animal-derived/animal free)
- Allergen-free
- Gluten-free
- GMO-free
- BSE/TSE – unaffected
- BHT-free
- Kosher
- Halal
The German multinational said the uniformity in ingredients standards presented savings potential “across regions and in multiple applications while at the same time simplifying the overall supply chain.”
“Universal Formulas can be marketed universally. Since the products meet all regulatory requirements in the major countries, they are free for use worldwide,” BASF said, noting the ingredients were aimed at both the dietary supplements and functional foods and beverages markets.
The company said companies would feel supply chain benefits, have fewer items and a simplified inventory, reduction of working capital, flexible product exchanges to cope with local shortages and less labeling requirements.