Evolva have announced that it is teaming up with Paris-based FCI to expand the European sales, marketing and distribution of its high-purity, sustainably sourced citrus ingredients, nootkatone and valencene.

Nootkatone is a molecule that gives grapefruit its distinct aromatic scent. It is extracted in minute quantities from the skin of grapefruit and the bark of the Nootka cypress tree for a variety of artisanal products. Given its minute presence in the tree bark and grapefruit skin, this supply route results in prohibitively high costs. Evolva’s nootkatone is a high-purity ingredient, free of environmental contaminants and with a traceable and reliable supply chain based on fermentation — the same natural process used to make wine, beer, bread and many other products.

With its trademark aromatic scent of orange peel, Evolva’s valencene is produced from the same fermentation process. Like nootkatone, Evolva’s valencene is giving the flavour and fragrance (F&F) industry an alternative, fully traceable and reliable supply chain for this popular citrus ingredient.

Philippe Faucher Managing Director of FCI said: “The European market for F&F ingredients is well known for its high standards, particularly for use in personal care, food, and beverage products. We see growing demand for ingredients like Evolva’s nootkatone and valencene, and are confident that they will fit well into our portfolio of high-impact chemicals and high added-value molecules.”

Evolva Head of Sales & Marketing Luc Gruner said, “Teaming up with FCI in Europe represents the next phase in the commercial expansion strategy for our nootkatone and valencene. FCI not only recognises, their distinct value proposition, but perhaps more importantly, has the commercial expertise and distribution network that we need now to start ramping up the sales of these high-purity, sustainably sourced citrus ingredients.”