HTBA just took a big step into the US. The company bought Specnova, a US firm with patented ingredient delivery systems. With this move, HTBA can now compete in North America’s supplement, food, and beverage markets. Specnova’s systems are already proven in clinical settings. HTBA plans to use them to boost product performance and stand out from rivals.
Specnova brings two main platforms: LipoVantage and NovaQSpheres. Both are built to help the body absorb plant actives, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and peptides. LipoVantage uses liposomes to wrap active ingredients. This protects them during digestion and helps the body take them in. NovaQSpheres works differently. It uses beadlets with several layers to control how ingredients are released. This lets companies build complex formulas. The first product with NovaQSpheres, BodyTech Elite Creatine Beadlets, hit the market in January 2025. It packs four layers of creatine inside protective polymers. The goal is to help muscles soak up creatine over time.
No independent confirmation of the HTBA–Specnova acquisition has been found in official company statements, major news agencies, or regulatory filings as of the latest available search.
Strategic independence and global expansion
HTBA and Specnova will keep running as separate companies. They plan to work together on new ingredient solutions. HTBA brings its know-how in citrus flavonoids and active vitamin B12. Specnova adds its delivery tech. For Specnova, the deal means it can tap into HTBA’s global network. That opens doors outside North America.
Specnova’s founder and CEO, Sebastian Balcombe, says both companies are sticking to science. He put it simply: “Our focus on technology, clinical research, intellectual property, and customer service will not change. What changes is the scope of what we are able to offer, both to our existing customers in North America and to customers in markets where HTBA is already established.”
HTBA CEO Alexandre Valls-Coma called the deal a “natural fit.” He pointed to how Specnova’s tech matches HTBA’s goals. He also said it could speed up new product launches. The price and payment details are not public. No one has confirmed the deal’s value, payment terms, closing date, or antitrust status. There is no official word on HTBA’s or Specnova’s websites. Major outlets like Reuters and Bloomberg have not reported it.
HTBA’s official website confirms its presence in the United States with a contact address in West Chester, Ohio, but does not mention the acquisition of Specnova or disclose any transaction details.
Product launches and industry presence
Both companies will show off their new products at SupplySide Global 2026 in Las Vegas. HTBA will launch Leanara in the US. This ingredient is for people using GLP-1 drugs. It mixes bioflavonoids with advanced vitamin B12 to help keep muscle and energy during weight loss. Leanara first appeared at Vitafoods Europe 2026 as mango-flavored powder sticks. The focus is on easy-to-use nutrition for people with less appetite from GLP-1 use.
HTBA will also present MecobalActive, a bioidentical active vitamin B12 for brain and body performance. DiosVein Forte, a micronized flavonoid for vein health and leg comfort, will be there too. Specnova will feature LipoVantage and NovaQSpheres, plus branded ingredients like NooGandha liposomal ashwagandha, NordicCherry tart cherry extract, and RiboBeauty redcurrant and blackcurrant extract.
This deal comes after a string of biotech buyouts. One example is the recent Shionogi-IntraBio deal. Companies are racing to secure new platforms and global reach.
HTBA’s move into the US with Specnova is more than just a new address. It’s a bet on the future of ingredient delivery. By joining proven delivery systems with a wider ingredient lineup, HTBA wants to set new standards in supplements and functional foods. Both companies will stay independent but work together. That’s a practical way to get the best from each. In a market where clinical proof and tech matter more than ever, HTBA and Specnova are aiming to lead the next wave of functional ingredients.
