CHICAGO — Glanbia Nutritionals announced on May 12 the acquisition of Sterling Technology, a South Dakota-based manufacturer of dairy bioactive solutions derived from bovine colostrum. Glanbia Nutritionals made the purchase for $60 million plus deferred consideration.

Colostrum is used in immunity and gut health segments within the health and wellness market. Glanbia Nutritionals stated colostrum is well established in multiple markets, particularly in Asia, with a focus on pediatric and medical nutrition, dietary supplements and sports nutrition.

“The acquisition of Sterling Technology enhances our bioactive solutions portfolio to support our customers’ needs and growth ambitions,” said Brian Phelan, chief executive officer of Glanbia Nutritionals. “We are excited to bring on board the Sterling team and their expertise with this highly beneficial ingredient.”

Sterling Technology operates out of Brookings, SD. It was founded in 1987 and has roughly 60 employees.

A $3.4 billion nutrition solutions and cheese company, Glanbia Nutritionals is a wholly owned business of Glanbia plc, which has origins in Irish dairy co-ops and farming.

Glanbia Nutritionals has a presence in 19 countries and more than 3,200 employees worldwide. It produces proteins, custom premix solutions, cheese, bioactive ingredients, plant-based solutions, flavors, micronutrients, bakery ingredients, functionally optimized nutrients and edible films. Its products are sold in 130 countries, in categories including sports nutrition, healthy lifestyle nutrition, mainstream food and beverage and clinical nutrition.