Senomyx strengthens Ajinomoto partnership

The move means that Senomyx is now one of the largest flavor companies in the world, and with Ajinomoto it will now export new product ranges to emerging markets in Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America. The two companies will work together exclusively on the development novel flavor ingredients for products not previously licensed by Senomyx, the company said. "The further expansion of our collaboration is an endorsement of Senomyx's technology and our mutually beneficial relationship",​ said Kent Snyder, Senomyx chief executive officer. "We are excited about the opportunity to combine these flavor ingredients with Ajinomoto's highly regarded ingredient offerings to create unique new flavors for consumers" ​​Senomyx flavours will now be used in a range of soups, sauces, instant noodles, snack foods, frozen foods and processed meats, he explained. Under the terms of the new agreement, Ajinomoto will pay Senomyx an initial license fee for the expanded rights. Senomyx will then be entitled to ongoing royalty payments based on sales of Ajinomoto products containing a Senomyx flavor ingredient. The company originally entered into collaboration with Ajinomoto in March 2006, giving itself a base in the bouillon product category within Japan, China and other Asian markets. In April 2007 the geographic scope of the agreement was expanded to include the US and Canada, Snyder said. Senomyx also has product discovery and development collaborations with international companies such as Cadbury Scweppes, Campbell Soup, Coca-Cola, Kraft and Nestle.