MELBOURNE, FLA. — Bessemer Investors LLC announced Dec. 20 it has made a sizeable investment in Pet Flavors, LLC, a manufacturer of pharmaceutical-grade flavor bases and palatants for the pet space. Financial terms of the investment were not disclosed.

The investment marks Bessemer’s entry into the companion animal health market.

"Pet parents want the experience of giving their pets medication to be as seamless as possible, which makes flavoring a key component of that relationship,” said Andrew Mendelsohn, president of Bessemer, which is based in New York. “Pet Flavors' commitment to quality and execution as well as its strong relationships with top animal health and supplement companies have helped it establish a reputation as the leading manufacturer of flavor bases. We are excited to team with Mark and the Company to build on their 30-year history of market leadership, innovation and partnership with the leading global animal health companies."

Pet Flavors’ flavor bases and palatants are made with US-sourced ingredients at a US Department of Agriculture (USDA) certified facility in Melbourne. The company uses independent laboratories to test all ingredients for physical, chemical and microbiological specifications and stability.

According to Pet Flavors, its palatants are used by the top animal health drug producers, including its leading PC-0125 artificial beef ingredient. The company has recently developed a hypoallergenic and vegan base flavor.

"We are very pleased to be partnering with Bessemer as we move toward the next stage in our growth,” said Mark Pieloch, president of Pet Flavors. “The Bessemer team is aligned with our values, and we believe their long-term and flexible approach will help us expand into additional products while continuing to strengthen our alliances with pharmaceutical and nutraceutical companies all over the world. We are proud of our role in keeping pets healthy and their owners happy."

Pieloch will remain president of the company following its partnership with Bessemer.

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