LUXEMBOURG — LuxembourgCSM Ingredients, held by investment companies of Investindustrial VII L.P. and global leader in the research and production of food ingredients, has announced the acquisition of Hi-Food, an innovative leader specializing in the research, development and production of natural origin ingredients. The acquisition is a continuation of Investindustrial’s strategy of proactively shaping the future of food by acquiring and building innovative and sustainable companies in the sector.
Founded in 2012 in Parma, Italy, by Giampaolo Cagnin, Massimo Ambanelli and Emanuele Pizzigalli – in close collaboration with the University of Parma – Hi-Food has since grown by developing innovative solutions in the world of functional ingredients for the plant-based and clean label food industry. The company’s solutions are characterized by the presence of selected ingredients, of natural origin and free of chemical additives. In particular, Hi-Food’s ingredients are developed through novel methods of transformation as well as with raw materials of plant origin that respond to the growing demand for healthy, nutritionally-balanced products that contribute to the sustainable evolution of the food industry.
As part of the transaction, the shareholders of Hi-Food will reinvest their proceeds into CSM Ingredients, also taking on important roles in the areas of R&D and commercial management. With this acquisition, CSM Ingredients — which to-date already counts with over 1,400 employees, thee research and innovation centers, eight production plants and two open-innovation hubs – takes yet another decisive step with the creation of an Italian ingredient-tech hub dedicated to uncovering transformative solutions for the world of food.
Indeed, in the coming months Hi-Food will complete the construction of one of the most modern and advanced plants for the production and processing of natural, plant-based ingredients, free of allergens and synthetic additives. Located in Pilastro di Langhirano (near Parma), the new Italian facility, equipped with a permanent high-tech extrusion research center, will offer some of the most advanced development and application services in Europe. In fact, the plant will feature a coordinated group of pilot structures, experimental kitchens and industrial machines which will be able to create product prototypes and new foods with the ultimate objective of not only satisfying the nutritional needs of contemporary customers, but also anticipate future trends.
