Nexira Acquires Moroccan Keragum, Securing Locust Bean Gum Supply Chain

Casablanca, Morocco — 13 July 2026

Nexira, a prominent French natural ingredients manufacturer, has acquired Moroccan carob ingredients producer Keragum. This strategic move, part of Nexira's 'Ambitions 2030' growth strategy, significantly bolsters its position within the global locust bean gum (LBG) market by securing direct access to raw materials from one of the world's primary carob-producing regions. The acquisition grants Nexira immediate access to Keragum's recently established, FSSC 22000, Halal, Kosher, and Organic certified production facility near Casablanca, which sources carob from local farming cooperatives.

LBG is a critical natural hydrocolloid, widely deployed as a thickener and stabiliser in various food products, including plant-based alternatives and ice cream, and increasingly in dietary supplements. Olivier Houalla, Nexira COO, highlighted that the acquisition merges Keragum’s Moroccan carob production specialism with Nexira's global customer reach and scientific capabilities. He noted Keragum's latest thermo-mechanical technology offers 100% natural processing, driving efficiency and competitiveness, alongside a sustainable agricultural value chain with strong local partnerships that ensure high-quality seeds and a secure supply.

This vertical integration reflects a broader industry trend where ingredient suppliers are gaining control over raw material sourcing to enhance supply chain security, traceability, and sustainability. The demand for LBG is experiencing continued growth, driven by the clean-label movement and the expansion of the plant-based food sector. Manufacturers are seeking natural ingredients that improve texture, stability, and mouthfeel while adhering to consumer preferences for simpler, more natural formulations. LBG is also garnering increased interest in functional nutrition applications, particularly for digestive health and weight management support, aligning with consumer demand for added health benefits.

What this means for United Kingdom

UK supplement manufacturers and brand owners using LBG should reassess their supply chain resilience. Nexira's increased control over carob sourcing could stabilise prices for their direct clients, but non-aligned suppliers might face procurement challenges. Formulation teams should investigate Nexira's expanded portfolio, including new adaptogenic mushroom extracts and fibre solutions, which will be showcased at IFT FIRST 2026. This acquisition underscores the growing importance of ingredient traceability and certified sustainable sourcing for market access and consumer trust within the UK. Brands should verify their LBG suppliers' commitment to ethical and transparent sourcing to maintain compliance with evolving consumer expectations and potential regulatory shifts.

The deal is also expected to accelerate Nexira's broader diversification efforts. Mathieu Dondain, CEO and Vice President at Nexira, indicated that the company foresees significant long-term potential for carob, not only for its functional properties but also its nutritional applications like appetite control, protein content, and cocoa replacement. Nexira is simultaneously developing other high-value nutritional ingredients, with plans for increased market visibility in the near future. The financial terms of the Keragum acquisition were not disclosed.

Brand owners increasingly rely on contract-manufacturing partners such as Supplement Factory to navigate these requirements.