121-year-old Paterson baking ingredients company is acquired by private-equity firm

J&K Ingredients Corp., a Paterson-based provider of ingredients for baked goods, has been acquired by a private-equity firm, according to a Thursday announcement.

CORE Industrial Partners LLC, based in Chicago, announced it has acquired J&K, which focuses on natural, organic and clean-label products. The company, founded in 1899, is noted for its work on natural mold inhibitors.

“As a fourth-generation owner of a family business proudly tracing its founding back to the 19th century, I was looking for the perfect partner that could provide the resources and support to execute substantial growth opportunities while respecting our unique history, culture and values,” J&K President Jim Sausville said in a prepared statement. “CORE is the ideal fit, and, on behalf of all J&K Ingredients employees, we’re excited to kick off this next phase of company growth.”

J&K operates three facilities in Paterson, and holds FDA, Halal, Kosher and organic certifications, among others.

Cole Schotz P.C. represented J&K in the transaction, while Winston & Strawn LLP provided legal representation for CORE for the deal.