Particles for Humanity Achieves Major Milestone in PFH-VAP Production for Vitamin A Fortification

Particles for Humanity's Journey Towards Vitamin A Fortification

In a notable stride towards addressing global health challenges, Particles for Humanity has successfully completed the process validation for the commercial-scale production of PFH-VAP, its flagship product. This development comes as a beacon of hope in the ongoing battle against vitamin A deficiency (VAD), particularly impacting communities in Africa.

PFH-VAP, a novel dry powder formulation with vitamin A, has been engineered specifically for large-scale food fortification. Unlike other vitamin supplements, this formulation is designed to maintain stability even under the hot and humid conditions often experienced in West African nations, where traditional vitamin A tends to degrade. Such degradation has historically limited the effectiveness of vitamin A fortification programs, leaving many vulnerable to nutritional deficiencies.

The validation process provides assurance that every step of the PFH-VAP production operates reliably and meets high-quality standards. Conducted at LIS by Lesaffre, located in Cérences, France, this endeavor utilized their extensive experience in food ingredient manufacturing, following a well-established food-grade validation framework compliant with good manufacturing practices (GMP).

Sherri Oberg, CEO of Particles for Humanity, expressed her enthusiasm regarding this milestone, stating, "Completing process validation at LIS is a significant step toward bringing PFH-VAP to market at scale. This achievement strengthens our capacity to meet commercial demand and deliver on our mission to get stable vitamin A to people in Africa who need it."

The innovative application of PFH-VAP will initially target the fortification of bouillon cubes, a staple across 80% to 99% of households in West Africa, particularly in low-income sectors where vitamin A deficiency is most prevalent. In March 2025, Particles for Humanity announced a partnership with Hexagon Nutrition Limited, allowing them to manufacture and distribute PFH-VAP in Africa, further solidifying their commitment to tackling nutritional deficiencies.

Partnerships and Impact
Particles for Humanity's collaborative efforts with LIS and Hexagon Nutrition indicate a robust approach to reaching those in need of essential nutrients. The innovative nature of PFH-VAP opens doors for other applications in food fortification, potentially transforming the health landscape of many at-risk populations. With funding stemming entirely from philanthropic sources, the enterprise continues to emphasize community participation, aligning with local stakeholder input to develop financially sustainable solutions.

Looking forward, Particles for Humanity, with operational facilities in France and Poland, aims to leverage their expertise in spray drying, accumulated over 50 years, to expand their portfolio further. They are committed to evolving medical technologies into accessible products specifically designed for individuals in low and lower-middle-income countries.

For more detailed information on their initiatives, you can visit their website at www.particlesfh.com. Through these efforts, Particles for Humanity is not just manufacturing a product; they are redefining the possibilities of public health, aiming to save lives and improve nutritional standards for millions in Africa.