The ingredient, which is targeted at exfoliating and moisturising skin care applications, is derived from the hatching fluid of salmon, where the enzyme Zonase allows the fish embryo to hatch from its egg by digesting the eggshell without harming the larva.
The marine biotech firm claims this process of digesting dead tissue in the eggshell while protecting the living larvae is the key to Zonase X, as it gently stimulates skin renewal without harming the skin.
Asian manufacturer to utilise existing distribution channels
The skin care range will initially be introduced to the Asian markets through the manufacturer’s existing distribution channels; however it is also in discussion with distributors in selected European countries and Australia, with regard to a future launches.
The manufacturer has requested to be unnamed until the product launch, due to competitive reasons.
As part of the sales agreement, the new line will consist of five new products all developed in collaboration with ABT.
“ABT is very satisfied that we have finalized this Supply Agreement with a highly regarded manufacturer of skin care products. Since we first signed an NDA in November 2009, we have been in close collaboration, developed a number of exciting products demonstrating the wide application of Zonase X” said Thor A. Talseth, executive chairman of ABT.
Interest growing in Zonase X
The Asian manufacturer is not the first to show an interest in ABT’s Zonase X technology.
The marine enzyme producer signed an agreement with skin care company Bioforskning for the Zonase X ingredient, and with a global healthcare company for certain components within the Zonase technology, including Zonase X, earlier this year, with views of developing new products next year too.
The ingredient has previously been launched in the Scandinavian market in the Zona and Kilda Skindiver skin care brands.