Dairy giant Lactalis is expanding its active nutrition portfolio. As Nutrition Insight reports, the Lactalis Group has acquired UK-based Protein Works, which offers a range of protein-based products across Europe.
Lactalis says it will accelerate Protein Works in the UK and global markets by combining the brand’s direct-to-consumer expertise and digital capabilities with Lactalis’ strengths in dairy proteins, nutrition, and large-scale manufacturing. Protein Works’ range includes shakes, meal replacements, wellness supplements, and snacks.
“We are very pleased to welcome Protein Works to Lactalis,” said Emmanuel Besnier, chairman of Lactalis. “The integration of this innovative company and its talented teams strengthens our position in the fast-growing active nutrition market, and we are confident we can continue to create products that respond to changing consumer expectations.” Financial terms were not disclosed.
Industry consolidation
The deal is part of a broader wave of consolidation in food and nutrition. Applied Nutrition acquired US sports nutrition manufacturer Nutrablend Group for $16m to expand its North American footprint. Danone acquired Huel to extend its portfolio into complete, nutritionally balanced meal solutions.
Jason Wang, CFO & COO of H&H Group, told Nutrition Insight there is a strong appetite for acquisitions and investments into health and wellness, specifically in nutrition, and that he expected fewer but higher-quality deals in 2026. “Further consolidation is inevitable,” he said.
Source: Nutrition Insight
