Hayashibara was founded in 1883 as a company manufacturing starch syrup. Since that time, the company has developed a variety of saccharides using enzymes that Hayashibara identified and isolated from many microorganisms.

Among many others, Hayashibara’s product line includes: 1) trehalose, which is a unique disaccharide with many technical applications, 2) glucosyl hesperidin, which has recently attracted attention as an ingredient that is a “designated food for specified health use” in Japan (FOSHU), and 3) ascorbic acid 2-glucoside, a stable vitamin C used in cosmetics, which is designed to brighten and improve the appearance of the skin. These products and associated formulation technologies have greatly contributed to the quality and value of various consumer products, and subsequently have improved peoples’ lives.

Since becoming a member of the Nagase Group in 2012, Hayashibara has increased its commitment to furthering the application of the company’s many products for pharmaceutical, food, health, beauty and color uses. With the internationally recognized expertise of Nagase & Co., Ltd., in information collection, market research, market development, distribution and sales, Hayashibara’s products can now be efficiently provided to all parts of the globe. Furthermore, synergies with other Nagase Group companies will allow Hayashibara to explore new business opportunities in fields such as energy and environmental science.