Barentz expands South American footprint with acquisition of Insuquim

Aug 19, 2024
1 min read

Dutch ingredients producer Barentz International has announced the acquisition of Insuquim, a distributor of speciality chemicals and ingredients in Paraguay.

The acquisition underlines Barentz's commitment to enhancing its presence in South America and strengthening its operations across the Mercosur region.

Headquartered in Asunción, Insuquim is known for its operations in both performance materials and life sciences sectors. According to the company, the acquisition will boost success for regional customers and global partners by providing innovative solutions and the "highest level" of technical support.

The deal is expected to drive accelerated growth in local markets through an expanded and complementary speciality ingredients portfolio. Gustavo Vidart and Insuquim’s current team will continue to manage day-to-day operations under the Barentz umbrella.

Elzo Benzaquen, CEO of Barentz South America, said: “Insuquim has demonstrated a strong commitment to innovation, customer service and sustainable practices, which aligns seamlessly with Barentz’ core values. This acquisition not only broadens our geographical reach but also complements our existing portfolio. Insuquim brings a wealth of expertise and a strong local presence that will fortify our position as one of the leading speciality ingredient distributors in South America.”

Gustavo Vidart, director of Insuquim, added: “Partnering with Barentz is an exciting opportunity for us to enhance our mission to deliver innovative solutions to our customers and principal partners alike. With a shared commitment to excellence, as well as a strong entrepreneurial spirit, Barentz is the ideal home for Insuquim. Our team is looking forward to accessing the Barentz regional and global network to better serve our customers and explore new market opportunities.”

Top image: © Insuquim

#BarentzInternational #Insuquim #Paraguay

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Leah Smith

8 May 2026

New products

Ella’s Kitchen launches new children's snack range

Ella’s Kitchen is expanding beyond the baby food aisle with the launch of Ella’s Kitchen Kids, a new product line aimed at children aged 18 months and older.

The launch marks a significant strategic move for the brand as it looks to extend its presence beyond the weaning category and capture growing demand for healthier snack options for toddlers and young children.

Positioned as a “better-for-you” alternative to traditional children’s snacks, the new range combines bold flavours, playful branding and convenient formats with the nutritional standards parents associate with the Ella’s Kitchen brand.

The company said the range was developed in response to changing family eating habits and the lack of minimally processed snack options for older toddlers outside the baby aisle.

Initial products include Ella’s Kitchen Kids Crunchy Stix in Cheese + Onion, Tomato + Basil and Pesto varieties, alongside Ella’s Kitchen Kids Wild Crackers available in Tomato + Oregano, Pea + Basil and Carrot + Rosemary flavours.

Designed for lunchboxes, picnics and snacking occasions, the products are formulated with reduced salt levels and classified as non-HFSS options. According to the company, the Crunchy Stix contain less than 0.04g of salt per pack, while the Crackers contain less than 0.05g per serving.

Emma Wood, Senior Brand Manager at Ella’s Kitchen, said: “Ella’s Kitchen Kids is about recognising that the journey doesn’t stop at baby food. As little ones grow, their tastes, independence and routines all change – but parents still want options they can feel good about.”

The launch also signals Ella’s Kitchen’s wider ambitions within the children’s snacking market, with additional products and categories expected later this year.

Wood added that the company aims to help “raise the standards of the kids’ food category” by balancing taste, convenience and nutrition.