Milk Specialties’ management has teamed with an affiliate of private equity firm American Securities LLC to acquire the assets from Kainos Capital, which in turn acquired the company in 2011. Kainos has a number of investments in the nutrition space, including InterHealth Nutraceuticals, makers of UC II, a denatured collagen ingredient for joint health.
Founded in 1949, Milk Specialties is a leading human and animal nutrition company. The company's Human Nutrition Business Unit is a manufacturer of whey and milk protein ingredients used primarily in the sports nutrition and functional food markets. The company’s Animal Nutrition Business Unit is a provider of products to the dairy industry.
“Milk Specialties has a strong history of growth in an exciting market. Demand for protein has soared driven by global population growth and interest in healthy lifestyles. We are excited about our new partnership with American Securities to support our growth goals in this expanding market,” said Dave Lenzmeier, CEO of Milk Specialties.
The company said its headquarters will remain in Eden Prairie, MN and it will be business as usual for its 700 employees. The deal, whose details were not disclosed, is expected to close later this year.