Biochem to Acquire BASF’s Global Glycinates Business

Biochem, an innovation-driven animal nutrition company specializing in feed additives and dietary supplements, has entered into a binding agreement with BASF to acquire BASF’s global glycinates business.

This strategic acquisition strengthens Biochem’s position as a pioneer in high-performance organic trace minerals (OTMs), a role it has held since 1992, while significantly expanding its global market presence. Through the transaction, Biochem will gain access to BASF’s well-established distribution partner network and broader market reach, ensuring a seamless transition for customers worldwide.

The divestment follows BASF’s recent announcement that it is exploring strategic options for its feed enzymes business and represents another important step in BASF’s ongoing portfolio optimization. BASF continues to focus on core ingredients for human and animal nutrition. While the evaluation of strategic options for feed enzymes is still ongoing, BASF remains fully committed to supporting customers and advancing the business throughout the transition, with a continued emphasis on growth and innovation.

Both companies’ glycinates portfolios are underpinned by strong, science-based value propositions, delivering clear benefits to livestock producers, including:

• Improved animal performance: The high bioavailability of glycinates supports enhanced mineral absorption, directly contributing to animal health, immunity, and growth.

• Environmental sustainability: Efficient mineral utilization reduces the excretion of key trace elements such as zinc and copper, helping producers comply with increasingly stringent environmental regulations.

• Feed formulation stability: The chemically stable structure of glycinates minimizes adverse interactions with sensitive feed components such as vitamins and enzymes, preserving overall diet quality.

“This acquisition marks a pivotal milestone for Biochem, and more importantly for feed and animal protein producers worldwide,” said Dr. Alexander Grafe, CEO of Biochem. “By integrating BASF’s glycinates business, we will bring a sustainable, science-driven product portfolio to a broader global customer base, supporting farmers in producing food more efficiently and sustainably.”

Uta Dirring, Head of Global Feed Enzymes and Feed Performance Ingredients Product Management & Marketing at BASF, expressed confidence in the transition: “We are extremely proud of the high-quality glycinates business we have built on the foundation of scientific innovation and strong partnerships. With its long-standing expertise and pioneering role in organic trace minerals, Biochem is the ideal new home for this business. We are confident that our glycinates products—and, most importantly, our valued partners and customers—will be in very good hands.”

As a long-term leader in organic trace minerals, Biochem will integrate BASF’s products into its existing portfolio. The company has been at the forefront of the sector for decades with solutions such as EcoTrace® and B.I.O.Key®, with EcoTrace® first launched in 2007. Biochem’s extensive expertise is supported by a strong body of scientific literature and is further reinforced by ongoing innovation, including BetaTrace®, a newly patented OTM technology that combines the added value of betaine with enhanced trace mineral bioavailability.

To ensure a smooth transition and uninterrupted product supply, Biochem will continue to work closely with BASF’s trusted distributors, underlining its commitment to customer service and supply chain reliability. During the transition period, BASF will ensure full business continuity for customers.

The financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed. The acquisition is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026.