USA – Mérieux NutriSciences has expanded its global food testing footprint with the acquisition of Bureau Veritas’ food testing activities in Ecuador.
The transaction marks the company’s official entry into the Ecuadorian market, following recent closings of similar deals across North America, Africa, Asia Pacific, and Chile.
The Ecuador acquisition integrates a 750-square-meter laboratory and more than 80 new employees into Mérieux NutriSciences’ network of over 140 ISO 17025-accredited laboratories worldwide.
The company stated that the facility will strengthen its microbiological and nutritional analysis capabilities, as well as its residue, pesticide, heavy metal, and molecular biology testing services across Latin America.
“Ecuador is a key country due to its export-oriented economy, and we are very proud to add this team to our organization,” said Eugenio Luporini, Executive Vice President – LATAM at Mérieux NutriSciences.
“Together with them, we look forward to delivering high-value, science-based solutions to our customers in Ecuador.”
Iván Huby, General Manager for Mérieux NutriSciences Ecuador, Peru & Colombia, emphasized that the transition would focus on continuity and expanded service value.
“The team they already know will continue working with the same dedication and proximity, now backed by Mérieux NutriSciences’ global capabilities,” he said.
“This change will enable us to offer even more innovative and comprehensive solutions to support the competitiveness of the Ecuadorian food sector.”
The Ecuador deal forms part of an acquisition agreement with Bureau Veritas, covering its global food laboratory testing activities.
The deal, announced last year, was valued at €360 million (US$418.8M) and supported by Institut Mérieux, Mérieux NutriSciences’ parent company. The transaction includes Bureau Veritas’ network of 34 laboratories and 1,900 technical staff across 15 countries in the Americas, Africa, and Asia Pacific.
In June, Mérieux NutriSciences announced the launch of its joint venture with AsureQuality, New Zealand’s state-owned food assurance provider.
The new entity, Mérieux NutriSciences AQ (MNAQ), was established following the acquisition of Bureau Veritas’ worldwide food testing activities, including its stake in the BVAQ joint ventures in Southeast Asia and Australia.
Mérieux NutriSciences, headquartered in Chicago, operates in more than 27 countries and offers services spanning food safety, quality, and sustainability. Its continued acquisition strategy aims to strengthen global capabilities and offer clients comprehensive analytical and advisory services.