The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

Oterra has acquired India's Akay Group, a manufacturer of natural ingredients for the food, beverage and nutraceutical sectors. Based in Kerala, Akay serves over 40 countries, has four manufacturing sites in southern India and employs more than 400 people. Its product offerings include natural colours and flavours, nutraceutical and dietary supplement ingredients, as well as spices and seasonings. The acquisition will provide Oterra with access to an extensive range of natural colour products, as well as the use of Akay's manufacturing plants and R&D capabilities. Cees de Jong, chairman of Oterra, commented: "Akay is a great strategic match for Oterra. It adds to Oterra’s best-known core-strength – natural colours and its portfolio of nutraceutical products complements Oterra’s existing portfolio of products for natural dietary supplements. The demand for all-natural products in this market is on the rise – and so is Oterra." The acquisition is Oterra's fourth in the past 14 months. In January, the company purchased US-based Food Ingredient Solutions. The transaction was signed earlier this month and is subject to regulatory approval.