Kensing, a US manufacturer of specialty chemicals derived from vegetable oils, has acquired Vitae Naturals, a producer of plant sterol esters and non-GMO natural vitamin E derivatives for the food, nutrition and skincare markets.

Founded in 2000 in Talavera de la Reina, Spain, Vitae Naturals manufactures plant sterol esters under the Vitastero brand and natural vitamin E derivatives under the Vitapherole brand.

Vitae Naturals serves a large set of global customers in more than 40 countries across five continents.

“We are pleased to bring Vitae Naturals into the Kensing family,” said Serge Rogasik, chief executive officer of Kensing.

“This acquisition is highly complementary, strengthens our footprint in Europe and enables further expansion in food ingredients. This is an exciting time for both companies and we look forward to partnering with the Vitae team to accelerate our growth objectives,” he added.

Rafael Cano Mariblanca, general manager of Vitae Naturals, said: “Kensing provides a strong platform to  build upon our position in our existing markets and expand further into the personal care market.”