Natural Colors Drive Chr. Hansen 3Q Revenues

HORSHOLM, DenmarkChr. Hansen released its third-quarter 2011-12 financials, reporting organic growth of 10% in the first nine months (excluding carmine price effect) and a 19% increase in EBIT. The company reported solid revenues of 514 million for the first nine months and raised raises its expectations to revenue growth for the year.

The positive momentum in the Cultures & Enzymes Division continued throughout Q3 with organic growth of 9% while the Health & Nutrition Division as expected reported soft organic growth of 6%. The Natural Colors Division reported 10% organic growth (excluding carmine price effect) in Q3, driven by the continued conversion to natural colors in food & beverages," said Chr. Hansen CEO Lars Frederiksen. Based on the continued solid performance in Q3 we have adjusted our expectations, with organic revenue growth now expected at 9% to 11% (excluding carmine price effect) while the profitability is expected to improve compared to last year with an EBIT margin between 26.5% to 27%."