The Swiss-Dutch company, dsm-firmenich, has initiated legal action in China for patent infringement against Shandong Haineng Bioengineering Co. Ltd., asserting that certain Haineng swine compound premix containing 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 constitutes unlawful use of dsm-firmenich patented technology. 
 
dsm-firmenich is a pioneer and a world leading manufacturer of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 – the major circulating form of vitamin D – which is widely used in animal feed as Hy-D, as well as other applications. The petition filed with the court asks it to order that Haineng cease using dsm-firmenich patented technology and pay compensation for the infringement.
 
"As a lead innovator in the 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 area, we hold and have been expanding a comprehensive patent portfolio throughout the value chain. From the manufacturing of crystalline 25-hydroxyvitamin D3, its formulations and its applications, the dsm-firmenich patent portfolio protects the exhaustive scientific research and development that has gone into both our innovative technologies and business," comments Christie Chavis, head of Performance Solutions + Biomin at dsm-firmenich. "We actively enforce patents against infringement to support and continue to invest in much-needed scientific innovation to bring advancements in sustainability, health and nutrition to the animal industry."
 
As innovators in nutrition, health, and beauty, dsm-firmenich reinvents, manufactures and combines vital nutrients, flavors and fragrances for the world's growing population to thrive. With a comprehensive range of solutions, natural and renewable ingredients, and renowned science and technology capabilities, the firm works to create what is essential for life, desirable for consumers, and more sustainable for the planet. dsm-firmenich is listed on the Euronext Amsterdam, with operations in almost 60 countries and revenues of more than €12 billion.