Martek Biosciences Corp., Columbia, MD, and The Hain Celestial Group, Inc., Melville, NY, have entered into a license and supply agreement whereby Martek will serve as the exclusive DHA and ARA supplier for all Hain Celestial infant formula products in the U.S. The companies are also in discussions regarding the potential expansion of this relationship into other food and beverage products. Martek produces DHA, a vegetarian source of the omega-3 fatty acid DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ARA (arachidonic acid), an omega-6 fatty acid.

Hain Celestial recently unveiled a new infant formula as part of the Earth’s Best brand. Earth’s Best Infant Formula will contain levels of DHA and ARA that have been shown through research to optimize brain and eye development. Hain Celestial chose Martek since Martek’s vegetarian DHA and ARA are consistent with Hain Celestial’s commitment to provide only the highest quality natural and organic foods.

“We are excited about the developing science of DHA and ARA and our role in bringing its health benefits to babies through our Earth’s Best infant formula,” said Irwin Simon, president and CEO, Hain Celestial. “Hain Celestial chose Martek for its high quality DHA and ARA, and we are looking forward to incorporating DHA into our great-tasting and healthy food products.”

Martek manufactures nutritional oils that contain the long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids DHA and ARA, both of which are naturally present in breast milk. Clinical studies have demonstrated benefits for infants receiving DHA and ARA supplemented formula.