Finnish food company Raisio has bought back the rights to the stanol ester used in Benecol’s cholesterol-lowering products.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


Raisio bought the rights from its US partner McNeil Nutritionals. As part of the agreement, Raisio also gains the rights to the Benecol brand in France and the US in categories where McNeil and its European partner Cilag are not active.


Benecol is best known worldwide for its margarine but Raisio has also launched Benecol yoghurts, porridge and pasta in Finland. Under the agreement, Raisio can now export those products.  “This means we can now launch innovative new products,” said Matti Rihko, CEO of Raisio.


Stanol Esters, the central ingredient, is derived from rapeseed.


Rihko said Raisio would probably form ventures with local companies and was planning to concentrate on the US and Chinese markets.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now