Martek signs formula deal with Medici Medical
Medici Medical to use its DHA and ARA in infant formulas sold in
Israel.
Formulas containing the US-based company's DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ARA (arachidonic acid), derived from micro-algae, are already sold in more than 60 countries around the world through licensees.
Martek claims that is DHA and ARA are in 80% of US infant formula. Other licensees include Mead Johnson, Wyeth, Abbott Laboratories and Nestle.
"It is heartening to know that with every new license agreement, more and more infants around the world will benefit from martek's DHA and ARA," said Martek chairman and CEO Henry Linsert.
Both DHA and ARA occur naturally in breast milk, and a body of research has suggested that both fatty acids have a role to play in cognitive and visual development.
A study conducted at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston last year also indicated that babies whose mothers supplement their diet with DHA have improved psychomotor skills as toddlers.
