Global leader in gelatine and collagen peptides, Rousselot, has announced the appointment of nutrition expert, Janne Prawitt, PhD, as its global nutrition manager. Prawitt’s core role will be to enhance product innovation and claim support for Rousselot’s ranges of gelatines and collagen peptides. Her responsibilities will include building further on the scientific evidence demonstrating the proven efficacy of the Peptan® collagen peptides portfolio, as well as expanding Rousselot’s wider research activities in key fields of human health and nutrition. The appointment represents the latest in a series of investments in the company’s global R&D and application capabilities.

Joining from the Institut Pasteur de Lille, France, where she was a post-doctoral researcher, Prawitt brings to Rousselot a high level of scientific expertise in health and nutrition. Prawitt received a PhD in Biology from the University of Hamburg’s Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology in 2006, and has also previously worked in a post-doctoral capacity at the University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany.

Rousselot provides extensive support to manufacturers in the development of innovative bioactive products that meet the growing demand for nutritionally enhanced foods and beverages, as well as nutraceuticals. To ensure it can support customers in the formulation of appealing and scientifically-endorsed end products, Rousselot works extensively with an international network of academics on R&D projects in key areas of nutritional science, such as joint and bone health, skin beauty and active nutrition.

With substantial experience in cutting-edge nutritional science, Prawitt will work within Rousselot’s R&D group to increase the company’s research output and ability to support customers in new product development and claim declarations.

Commenting on her appointment, Prawitt said: “Rousselot is internationally renowned for its investment in research and science-led approach to support customers in bringing innovative and clinically-proven products to the market. This role immediately appealed to me as it will enable me to work with Rousselot’s first-class R&D facilities—alongside leading academic institutions—to expand our understanding of human nutrition and, ultimately, make a tangible impact on people’s quality of life.”

Based in Rousselot’s Ghent Expertise Center, Prawitt will report to Fred Beekmans, director, R&D and quality at VION Ingredients. Beekmans said: “We have an ongoing commitment to work in close partnership with our customers to help them develop innovative and appealing products based on the latest science and demonstrable efficacy. 

“The appointment of Janne as global nutrition manager will help us further increase our research activities, boost innovation, and extent our position in the field of human health and nutrition science.”