Merck Acquires BioControl to Strengthen Position in Food Safety Testing

05-Jan-2017 - Germany

Merck announced it has acquired BioControl Systems Inc., a global leader in food safety testing. The acquisition opens growth opportunities for Merck in the food and beverage space; particularly in the U.S. Confidentiality has been agreed on the financial details of the transaction.

BioControl’s established rapid detection technology and third-party validated testing platforms complement Merck’s portfolio of instruments and consumables in its applied solutions business geared to the food pathogen testing workflow.

“BioControl’s acquisition strengthens our ability to help customers protect the global food supply by providing an expansive portfolio of state-of-the-art testing technology,” said Udit Batra, Member of the Merck Executive Board and CEO, Life Science business. “BioControl’s innovative assays and validated kits, when combined with Merck’s strengths in microbiology, filtration and e-commerce will create a strong global provider aimed at solving tough challenges in the food pathogen testing space,” he added.

The global spotlight on the importance of food safety has grown given the increased incidents of outbreaks and recalls with foodborne diseases often caused by consuming a wide range of foods including undercooked meat, eggs, fresh produce and dairy products contaminated by Salmonella, Listeria, E.coli O157H7 and Campylobacter. BioControl’s product portfolio includes pathogen detection kits to identify these food poisoning bacteria in food and ingredients and its key customers include meat producers.

https://www.bionity.com/en/news/161241/merck-acquires-biocontrol-to-strengthen-position-in-food-safety-testing.html