BIO-CAT, Inc., a biotech company specializing in enzyme product development, has entered a global partnership whereby Kerry, the taste and nutrition company will lead sales, marketing, and distribution of BIO-CAT’s proprietary probiotic strain, OPTI-BIOME MB40.
 
OPTI-BIOME MB40 (Bacillus subtilis ATCC122264) is a non-GMO, highly-stable probiotic strain that the company said is an ideal ingredient for a range of dietary supplements and other related uses. A 2019 peer-reviewed study demonstrated promising results for the probiotic strain to support gastrointestinal health. 
 
Kerry has extensive experience marketing probiotics; the Ireland-based company has placed its GanedenBC30 (Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086) probiotic in well over 1,000 food and beverage products around the world. BIO-CAT CEO Chris Schuler said he envisions similar success with MB40 in the dietary supplement space.
 
“Given the impressive performance of the MB40 strain and its potential to have a significant impact on the dietary supplement, functional food and beverage, and companion animal industries, we have decided to work with a partner who will help scale MB40 globally,” Schuler said. “Kerry’s expertise, commitment to develop a leading probiotic platform, access to global resources, and plans to further scientifically support MB40® make them an ideal partner.”
 
As part of the agreement, Kerry will apply its brand development capabilities to refresh the MB40 brand over the course of the coming months. Once fully developed, the new brand name will be supported by Kerry’s global marketing and commercial infrastructure.
 
According to John Quilter, vice president and general manager of Kerry’s ProActive Health business, “We are delighted to partner with Bio-Cat to further develop and market this unique and highly-stable Bacillus strain, which will complement our growing portfolio of science-backed branded ingredients in our ProActive Health portfolio.”