In a move to expand its in-house microbiology testing capabilities, Integrity Nutraceuticals International, Sarasota, Fla., has acquired the Soleris 128 rapid optical system. Manufactured by Centrus International Inc., the Soleris 128 will allow Integrity’s microbiology lab to accurately test all incoming ingredients and raw materials for  contamination of microorganisms.

Novel Ingredient Services has relocated its West Coast office to a new location. The larger facility, which remains in Los Angeles, will improve production and warehousing operations as well as allow for additional customer service, quality control and office personnel. Novel now offers more than 50 varieties of botanical ratio extracts in stock.

BASF, Evans City, Pa., has increased its selling prices in the United States by $0.02 per pound on all technical grade sulfite products and on all grades of sodium nitrite and sodium nitrate, and by $0.04 per pound on all food and photo grade sulfite products.

Jens Bigum was elected the new chairman of Chr. Hansen with its new owners, the private equity company PAI Partners.

Frutarom Ltd., North Bergen, N.J., has appointed Kobi Levy executive vice president and manager of the global flavors division.

Blake Anderson has been named president of Symrise North America Flavors Division, Teterboro, N.J.

Kiran Krishnan has joined A&B Ingredients, Fairfield, N.J., as Midwest regional sales manager.

Robertet Flavors Inc., Piscataway, N.J., has added Jared Hamill as associate food technologist in the flavors applications laboratory.