An Illinois agriculture supplement firm has taken a majority stake in a North Dakota talc manufacturer, according to a press release issued Monday.

Brandt, which manufactures and distributes a variety of crop supplements internationally, has acquired TALC USA. The transaction closed on Dec. 31.

TALC’s primary focus is on talc powder fortified with iron and manganese, though the company has also developed its own line of seed treatments. The company has distribution networks in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Ukraine and South Africa.

“This transaction makes us part of a global organization, providing certainty for our employees and enabling us to continue to grow the business and serve our farmer customers,” said TALC USA founder Steve Johnson.

Talc is a critical ingredient for dry applications for biological seed treatments.

TALC will operate as part of Brandt’s Specialty Formulations business unit. The acquisition will not result in any layoffs.