Agriculture

A Swedish SME has developed a new approach to iron supplementation based on natural heme iron. The concept emerged from research collaborations with experts in molecular biotechnology and iron metabolism, aiming to address iron deficiency in children and women without synthetic additives. The innovation enables fortification of everyday foods and targeted supplementation in capsule form, offering a more bioavailable and tolerable iron source. Currently, the powders are produced in-house. To scale efficiently, a reliable third-party manufacturer is needed. The company now seeks an international partner capable of producing two product formats: - Heme iron powder suitable for food fortification. This is a mixture of 3 different powders, oat flour, berry powder and hemoglobin powder (from bovine). The company will through its certain suppliers provide the raw materials. The powder comes in two versions: one tailored for children and one for women, each with different ratios of the carefully developed mixture. - Heme iron capsules designed for dietary supplement use. The hemoglobin powder will be provided by the company. The rationale for international cooperation is twofold. First, the company requires reliable, high-quality production capacity to commercialise its innovation at scale. Second, collaboration with experienced manufacturers will ensure compliance with food safety regulations and support market entry beyond Sweden. The desired outcome of cooperation is a long-term manufacturing agreement. The SME envisions the partner handling production and quality assurance, while the Swedish company focuses on product development, branding, and distribution. This cooperation will enable the introduction of novel, science-based iron products across multiple markets. Advantages and innovations Natural source: Products use natural heme iron, closely aligned with traditional dietary sources. High bioavailability: More efficiently absorbed than conventional non-heme iron supplements. Gentle on digestion: Designed to reduce side effects such as stomach irritation often linked to iron tablets. Versatile application: Powder format can be added to homemade meals; capsules offer convenient supplementation. Sustainability: Based on circular use of animal by-products, contributing to reduced food waste. Technical Specification or Expertise Sought The company seeks a producer with demonstrated expertise in: Mixing raw materials into food-grade powder - oat flour, berry powder (lingonberry) and hemoglobin powder. Encapsulation of hemoglobin powder into capsules, compliant with food supplement standards. Certifications such as: ISO 22000/FSSC 22000/IFS Food or similiar, HACCP, GMP and organic certification is a requirement. Gluten-free production for the powders are a requirement. Ability to ensure traceability, allergen control, and compliance with EU food safety regulations. Expected role of a partner The partner is expected to act as a contract manufacturer under a manufacturing agreement. Their role includes producing the powders and capsules to defined specifications, performing quality assurance, and supporting regulatory documentation for international markets.