PureCircle, Oak Brook, IL, has signed a global, multi-year distribution agreement with Switzerland-based Firmenich to accelerate the commercialization of the company’s new natural flavor, NSF-02.

PureCircle recently launched its PureCircle Flavors product line, including NSF-02, which is designed to work in combination with the company’s high purity stevia sweeteners, Reb A and SG-95, and sugar or high fructose corn syrup, enhancing flavor, sweetness and taste of food and beverages.

Under the agreement, Firmenich will have exclusive rights to commercialize NSF-02 both as a standalone ingredient and within the company’s flavor systems. PureCircle will retain rights to distribute directly in select accounts. Also, as part of the agreement, the two companies will further collaborate on marketing and regulatory activities that will accelerate the adoption of the new flavor modifier across global markets beyond the U.S., where NSF-02 has Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status.