Koninklijke DSM N.V., Roche Holding AG, and Fritz Gerber, In the Matter of

The FTC charged that, as proposed, DSM's purchase of RV&FC would have a significant adverse effect on competition in the worldwide market for phytase. Phytase is an enzyme added to certain animal feed to promote the digestion of nutrients necessary for livestock production.  According to the complaint, absent relief, the transaction would lead to DSM being part of alliances that supply more than 90 percent of the $150 million phytase market worldwide. A consent order permitted DSM N.V. to acquire the Vitamins and Fine Chemicals Division of Roche Holding AG but requires DSM to divest its phytase business to BASF AG.