Mérieux NutriSciences expands global food testing capabilities through strategic acquisition
Laboratory testing leader Mérieux Nutri-Sciences has completed a significant phase of its acquisition of Bureau Veritas’ food testing operations across multiple regions, adding eight laboratories and 500 staff to its network. The move strengthens the company’s analytical capabilities in microbiological, chemical and molecular testing across key Asian and African markets.
Expanding laboratory network
The latest phase of the acquisition brings new testing facilities under Mérieux NutriSciences’ operation in Japan, Morocco, Southeast Asia and South Africa. The expansion particularly enhances the company’s presence in emerging markets while adding pharmaceutical testing capabilities to its South African operations.
Strategic partnership in Southeast Asia
In a notable development for the Southeast Asian market, Mérieux NutriSciences will operate through a joint venture with New Zealand’s AsureQuality. The partnership, currently operating under the BVAQ brand, aims to combine both organisations’ technical expertise in food safety testing and quality assurance services.
Laboratory testing capabilities
The acquisition encompasses comprehensive food testing services including:
• Microbiological analysis
• Chemical composition testing
• Molecular diagnostic services
• Pharmaceutical testing (South Africa)
The transaction forms part of a larger agreement to acquire Bureau Veritas’ global food laboratory testing activities, with further laboratory acquisitions pending across Asia-Pacific and Latin America.
Global network expansion
CEO Nicolas Cartier highlighted the strategic importance of the acquisition: “Today, we significantly enhance our ability to deliver highvalue, science-based solutions to our customers and the food industry at large across East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa.”
The expansion increases Mérieux Nutri-Sciences’ global testing capacity, adding:
• Eight fully equipped laboratories
• More than 500 technical staff
• New geographical markets including Japan and Morocco
• Enhanced presence in existing territories
Technical infrastructure
Mérieux NutriSciences’ enhanced laboratory network now comprises over 100 accredited facilities worldwide, supported by approxi-mately 8,000 staff. The laboratories provide analytical services spanning food safety, quality assessment and sustainability measurements.
The acquisition strengthens the company’s ability to deliver:
• Accredited testing services
• Scientific consultancy
• Research capabilities
• Environmental impact assessment
• Technical training programmes
• Digital analytical tools
Market implications
The completion of this phase of acquisition positions Mérieux NutriSciences as an increasingly prominent player in the global food testing, inspection and certification sector. The enhanced geographical coverage and technical capabilities are expected to support the food industry’s increasing demands for comprehensive analytical services across international supply chains.
Further announcements regarding additional laboratory acquisitions in Asia-Pacific and Latin America are expected as remaining transactions are finalised, indicating continued expansion of the company’s global testing infrastructure.
