9 Feb 2010 --- Women in 20 countries will have access to a probiotic capsule that can help reduce the risk of vaginal and urogenital infections

12 months after Chr. Hansen’s acquisition of Canadian Urex Biotech Inc. the market penetration for the clinically documented probiotic concept for women is increasing.

“The concept is gaining popularity all over the world, because the clinical documentation for this product is second to none and because of its user-friendliness. The oral dosage form is perceived as easy and convenient by consumers, and I am not surprised to see the concept being launched in more and more markets,” says Lasse Nagell, Global Sales Director, Health & Nutrition Division, Chr. Hansen.

A daily capsule of Urex taken orally, restores and maintains a healthy vaginal flora which can help reduce the risk of infections. Eleven clinical studies conducted using the oral formulation have been published, and others are currently underway.

The global healthcare company Merck introduced the Urex concept in France in 2006 under the brand name “Bion Flore Intime”. Following the solid market success in France the company decided to launch the concept in Germany in July 2009 under the brand name “Femibion Flor Intim”.

“When you have such a successful launch in one country, the next step is to find out how to repeat the success in more countries,” says Nicolas Barrois, Bion Brand Manager, Merck.

Statistically every woman will experience occasional disorders of the vaginal microflora, which may lead to more serious conditions which could lower the comfort and quality of the woman’s life.

With the unique concept now available in 20 countries from Finland to India millions of women have access to a quick and proven solution. More markets are expected to launch the Urex concept in the near future.

Chr. Hansen offers the best clinically documented probiotic strains for Women’s Health, Probio-Tec Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14.

These strains are included in Chr. Hansen’s premium range of probiotics under the Probio-Tec  brand – a quality marker ensuring documented effect, documented stability and proven safety.

With the acquisition of Urex in 2009 Chr. Hansen expanded its activities within proven probiotics for dietary supplements.

The focus is on developing new products for the dietary supplement industry and the pharmaceutical industry, and probiotic solutions for women are one of the four focus areas for Chr. Hansen’s Health & Nutrition Division.