Davis-based Arcadia Biosciences purchased the assets of Agrasys S.A., a Barcelona, Spain-based food ingredients company that developed tritordeum, a nutritious cross between durum wheat and wild barley. The proprietary hybrid cereal crop is high in fiber, protein and lutein, and can be used in bread, crackers, pasta and beer. Lutein is a carotenoid with anti-inflammatory properties that is known to improve or even prevent age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness and vision impairment, Arcadia said. "Not only do we see further growth for tritordeum in Europe, we believe that there is untapped potential for the product in North America and other important cereal markets around the world," said Arcadia CEO Matt Plavan in a news release. "Additionally, the network and capabilities that the Agrasys team have built will serve as an excellent foundation for our GoodWheat products as we expand our commercial footprint. We are delighted to welcome the Agrasys team into the Arcadia family and look forward to continuing to deliver the nutritious and delicious products that consumers seek."
Agrasys works with a network of more than 50 grain producers and 25 millers and distributors to deliver its proprietary products to customers. The company has commercialized Tritordeum in 10 countries with seven retailers in Europe, most recently launching its Tritordeum bread product with Albert Heijn, the largest grocery retailer in Holland.
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