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Investindustrial-owned CSM Ingredients has announced the acquisition of Italian ingredients firm, Hi-Food, for an undisclosed amount. Founded in 2012, Hi-Food specialises in the research, development and production of natural-origin ingredients, focusing on functional solutions for the plant-based and clean label food industry. As part of the transaction, Hi-Food's shareholders will reinvest their proceeds into CSM Ingredients, and take on roles in the areas of research and development (R&D) and commercial management. CSM – which already has over 1,400 employees, three research and innovation centres, eight production plants and two open-innovation hubs – describes the acquisition as "another decisive step with the creation of an Italian ingredient-tech hub dedicated to uncovering transformative solutions for the world of food". Over the next few months, Hi-Food plans to complete the construction of a production and processing facility for plant-based ingredients. Located in Pilastro di Langhirano (near Parma), the new plant, which is equipped with a permanent high-tech extrusion research centre, will offer "some of the most advanced development and application services in Europe," said CSM. The facility will also feature a coordinated group of pilot structures, experimental kitchens and industrial machines, which will create product prototypes and new foods. Aldo Uva, CSM's CEO, said: “As part of CSM’s innovation and strong expansion, Hi-Food represents excellence in the quest for solutions that can contribute to the sustainable evolution of the food industry. The acquisition allows us to create a perfect blend between the operational solidity, the global footprint and the professional know-how of CSM Ingredients with the visionary and pioneering spirit of Hi-Food, helping to accelerate the propulsive reality for the future of food." He continued: "The acquisition of Hi-Food is the first milestone of our ongoing R&D worldwide effort, that, in the medium term, will exceed €200 million in investments”.