MOUNT PLEASANT, WIS. — Oterra announced an expansion of its capabilities in the US market with a state-of-the-art innovation, collaboration and production hub in Mount Pleasant. According to the company, the hub will help it meet expected growing demand for natural colors in the United States.

“The new facility is a direct commitment to the US market,” said Martin Sonntag, chief executive officer of Oterra. “Oterra already has a strong foothold in the North American market, catering to the demands of an environmentally conscious and health-focused consumer base. This puts Oterra in a great position to further support our customers in the conversion towards natural colors.”

The hub spans 155,000 square feet and includes a US headquarters, innovation and application labs, and new manufacturing and logistics facilities. Additionally, the hub touts 40,000 square feet of expansion space specifically for new color products and pilot production lines.

With the addition of the US hub, Oterra’s customers can work directly with the company’s team of regulatory and application experts to find the right natural color, develop new products and reformulate existing products within various industries, from food and beverage to pet food. 

According to consumer research from the Natural Colors Association, US consumers are increasingly interested in food products with natural colors, with many associating natural colors with healthy, safe and sustainable products. As consumers embrace natural colors in their own food products, they are also beginning to seek them out for their pets. 

“We have observed notable shifts in consumer demand, primarily fueled by an increasing focus on health and wellness,” said Chari Rai, head of applications, North America at Oterra. “Consumers are becoming more informed and intentional about the choices they make, seeking products that align with their desire for healthier lifestyles. This trend extends beyond just nutritional value to include cleaner labels, natural ingredients and sustainable sourcing. Additionally, regulatory changes in certain states are expected to further accelerate the demand for products that limit or eliminate the use of artificial dye.

“Oterra prides itself on making natural colors easy for customers and the opening of the new facility will help us fulfill that promise,” she added. “Besides having the widest range of natural products, we can offer our customers world-class R&D and application labs, hands-on training, and team inspiration events that can help food and beverage companies stand out in the market.”

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