Ede, The Netherlands – NIZO food research, an international contract research organization (CRO) for companies active in food and healthcare markets, announces today that Gilde Healthcare has joined as a shareholder to facilitate long term growth.

Jasper van Gorp, Managing Partner at Gilde Healthcare comments:

“Research in health and food are converging, with the pharmaceutical industry looking at effects of food components and the food sector becoming more aware of the health effects of their products. Examples of this convergence include functional foods, probiotics, nutraceuticals and clinical nutrition. At the same time very few companies globally have the right expertise to make the connection between food and health. NIZO is a growth center for innovative R&D services and new product and process innovations in this field”.

In collaboration with NIZO’s management team, Gilde Healthcare aims to focus on accelerating NIZO’s autonomous growth and adding complimentary activities.

Ad Juriaanse, CEO of NIZO is pleased with the further support of Gilde Healthcare’s investment.

“The current strategy to grow internationally in contract research is supplemented with new, innovative business models. For example, NIZO has recently developed in-house product innovations such as fibers based on plant proteins and fat-free ice cream. It also is one of the few companies worldwide that operates a state-of-the-art pilot plant to actually produce these innovations. We see this transaction as recognition of our company’s strong market position and the expertise of our staff”.

About NIZO food research

NIZO food research is a state-of-the art, independent food contract research organization operating globally. NIZO focuses on the development and application of innovative technologies in the global food industry and related markets. NIZO translates science to functional benefits by using its leading expertise in taste, texture, health, food safety and processing. With over 130 staff NIZO is continuously looking for new ways of improving food products, and at the same time quality of life. NIZO’s headquarters are in Ede, the Netherlands and the main other markets are Europe, USA, Japan, Korea and Oceania. www.nizo.com

About Gilde Healthcare

Gilde Healthcare is a transatlantic investor in fast growing healthcare technology and healthcare services companies. To date, Gilde Healthcare has over €550 million under management. Gilde Healthcare’s funds include technological innovations as well as healthcare services companies such as midsized healthcare providers and service providers. www.gildehealthcare.com