Metagenics acquires Euro distributor in expansion drive

Californian nutraceutical developer Metagenics is firming up its presence in Europe with the acquisition of Biodynamics, which helped it make its first inroads into the Benelux countries as a distributor to health care professionals.

Biodynamics, a Belgian company, sells several other brands for human and animal nutrition besides Metagenics', such as FuncioMed, StrotsTech, Extra-Nutri and AnimaMed.

Metagenic's main sales channel for its nutraceuticals and medical foods is health care professionals. In addition to this market, Biodynamics also sells products through pharmacies, health foods stores and veterinarians - although no-one at the company was available to comment on the future of these activities prior to publication.

Jeff Katke, chairman and CEO of Metagenics, did say, however, that Biodynamics is seen as key to the parent company's development in the EU.

"The evolving EU regulatory system will increase the opportunities for cross-border sales and shipments of our products throughout Europe," he said.

This is not the first time Metagenics has effected international expansion by snapping up one of its distributors; today's news echoes its acquisition a year ago of Health World Limited, which previously represented the company's products in Australia and New Zealand.

"Our expanding direct presence internationally will help us in our mission to improve patient health worldwide through novel approaches to chronic illness," said Katke.

Metagenics also recently announced a new medical food program called Ultracare First Start, which it has developed in response to growing rates of metabolic syndrome and obesity in children and to meet childrens' specific nutritional needs.

The company has previously offered a similar program for adults.