Biochem moves to acquire BASF’s global glycinate business in major portfolio expansion

GERMANY – Biochem has struck a binding agreement to acquire BASF’s global glycinate business, a move set to reshape the landscape of organic trace minerals and expand Biochem’s global market footprint. 

Announced this week, the acquisition aims to strengthen Biochem’s position as a pioneer in high-performance organic trace minerals while ensuring uninterrupted supply and service for customers worldwide.

The acquisition gives Biochem access to BASF’s established global distribution network, significantly increasing the company’s reach across key animal nutrition markets. 

Both parties confirmed that all customers will experience a seamless transition, with Biochem planning to continue working with BASF’s long-standing distribution partners.

The deal comes as BASF continues refining its portfolio, following its recent announcement to explore strategic options for its feed enzyme business. 

While that review is ongoing, BASF emphasized its commitment to maintaining strong support for customers during the transition.

Although financial terms were not disclosed, the transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026.

Shared science-driven value and market alignment

Both Biochem and BASF bring glycinate portfolios grounded in research-backed performance. 

Their combined offerings focus on enhancing mineral absorption, supporting animal health, and improving feed efficiency. 

Glycinates also reduce the excretion of zinc and copper into the environment—an increasingly important factor as regulations tighten globally.

In addition, their stable chemical structure ensures smoother feed formulation by avoiding negative interactions with sensitive ingredients like vitamins and enzymes.

Biochem CEO Alexander Grafe described the acquisition as a transformative step for global producers. 

“This acquisition is a pivotal moment for Biochem, but more importantly, for feed and animal protein producers around the world,” he said. 

“By integrating BASF’s glycinate business, we are bringing our sustainable and science-driven portfolio to an even larger global audience, empowering farmers to produce food more efficiently and sustainably.”

From BASF’s side, confidence in the transition remains strong. “We take great pride in the high-quality glycinate business we have built, founded on scientific innovation and strong partnerships,” said Uta Dirring, head of Global Product Management & Marketing Feed Enzymes & Feed PIs at BASF. 

“Biochem’s long-standing expertise and pioneer status in organic trace minerals make it the ideal new home for this business.”

Integration and future portfolio growth

With the acquisition, Biochem will incorporate BASF’s glycinates into its established EcoTrace® and B.I.O.Key® portfolios, both supported by decades of scientific documentation. 

The company has also recently introduced BetaTrace®, a patent-pending innovation that merges betaine with improved trace mineral bioavailability, signaling its commitment to continued product development.

Biochem confirmed that product availability will remain stable throughout the transition, underscoring its focus on supply chain reliability and customer continuity.

With the deal set to conclude in early 2026, the acquisition marks a significant consolidation in the organic trace minerals sector, strengthening Biochem’s ability to deliver sustainable, efficient, and science-based mineral solutions to a rapidly evolving global animal nutrition market.

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