Fi Europe co-located with Hi Europe returns to France this year from 6-8 December. For the first time, the leading ingredients exhibition will take place at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles – occupying four halls with more than 1,200 exhibitors, ranging from leading ingredients suppliers through to highly specialised newcomers. The in-person show will be framed and supported by an extensive online event, giving attendees countless opportunities and greater flexibility to source, connect and innovate – be it virtually, in-person or both.
In Paris, Fi & Hi Europe is set to attract exhibitors and attendees from over 135 countries around the world. Located in the heart of the city, Paris Expo Porte de Versailles is within walking distance of many hotels, restaurants and bars – making the event more visitor-friendly than ever before.
Fi & Hi Europe is the culmination of a year of Fi Global engagement with the ingredients industry, including a series of webinars, in-person events around the world, and the marketplace solution Ingredients Network.
Digitally enabled event concept
With this year’s show, Informa Markets continues its hybrid journey, setting the bar even higher with more advanced technology. The combination of online and in-person events offers attendees the best of both worlds, covering a huge variety of live and on-demand content, as well as data-driven matchmaking options, enabling a seamless all-round show experience. For example, all exhibitors will have an online profile that allows them to connect and network ahead of the event and gather leads onsite using the integrated lead scanning system. This means it has never been easier to find and connect with relevant contacts and schedule virtual or in-person meetings using the online event platform.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming thousands of visitors and exhibitors from around the world to an event which all those involved in the ingredients industry simply cannot afford to miss,” says Julien Bonvallet, Brand Director at Informa Markets. “After many months of disruption and uncertainty, there’s a strong aspiration for meeting in-person again, and so the excitement is already gathering pace. But for those who would prefer to join online, sophisticated technology means our online event will merge seamlessly with the in-person show.”
Packed conference programme
The online event will begin on 28 November, the week before doors open at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. It features a packed conference programme covering the hottest industry topics including plant-based, health & wellbeing and reformulation, as well as category updates on some of the key trending segments. These include bakery and snacks, dairy & dairy alternatives, sustainability and much more.
The physical show will once again include popular features such as the Innovation Hub, the New Product Zone in collaboration with Innova Market Insights, and the Fi Europe Innovation Awards. The all-new Sustainability Hub will focus on sustainable food solutions from farm to fork, giving visitors the opportunity to learn about food waste, circular economy, regenerative agriculture and more.
Unique gathering of suppliers
Lots of key ingredients suppliers have already confirmed their attendance in Paris, including ADM, Beneo, Brenntag, Cargill, DSM and Ingredion, to name just a few. The four halls at the venue are already 85 per cent booked with a variety of exhibitors – both old and new – all eager to showcase the latest trends and products driving the industry. There will also be more country pavilions than ever before.
Julien adds: “I am so excited that Fi & Hi Europe will once again open its doors in Paris – this time at an impressive new venue. Bringing the world of food and beverage ingredients together has always been our main purpose, and our entire team is looking forward to providing the perfect platform for both visitors and exhibitors to source, connect and innovate.”
Despite the brewing geopolitical, economic, and health crises, China’s hot drinks sales are set to increase, as consumers trade up to higher-quality products. The introduction of innovative and customised tea, coffee, and plant-based hot drinks is bolstering the market growth. As a result, the China’s hot drinks market is set to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.1 % from CNY 231.4 billion (USD 36.2 billion) in 2021 to CNY 311 billion (USD 48.6 billion) in 2026, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.
GlobalData’s report, ‘Chinese Hot Drinks – Market Assessment and Forecasts to 2026’, reveals that while tea remains the mainstay, the coffee culture is growing owing to the evolving lifestyles and preferences of urban consumers. The market growth will be primarily driven by the hot coffee category, which is set to register the fastest value CAGR of 6.5 % during 2021-2026. The category will be followed by other hot drinks and hot tea with a CAGR of 6.2 % and 6.0 %, respectively, over the forecast period.
Naveed Khan, Consumer Analyst at GlobalData, says: “The stringent COVID-19 lockdowns in Beijing, Shanghai and in the Hainan province have undermined the on-premise sales of hot drinks. However, consumers are treating themselves to higher quality tea and coffee at home. The growing demand for the new consumption experiences among the urban youth, and the introduction of new brew styles and flavours by international and homegrown companies are powering the growth of the hot coffee category in China.
“Hot tea, the largest category by value sales, continues to expand as new Chinese-style teas, such as yellow tea and scented tea, are gaining traction. The health concerns due to the pandemic are spurring the demand for herbal drinks that are perceived to improve immunity and overall health and wellness.”
According to the report, ‘convenience stores’ was the leading distribution channel in the Chinese hot drinks market in 2021, followed by hypermarkets & supermarkets, and e-retailers. Nestlé, China Tea, and Zhejiang Xiangpiaopiao were the top three companies in the fragmented Chinese hot drinks sector in value terms in 2021, and Nescafe and U.Loveit were the leading brands.
The per capita expenditure (PCE) on hot drinks in China increased from USD 6.5 in 2016 to USD 12.7 in 2021, surpassing the regional average at USD 11.1, but lagging the global level at USD 17.0. China’s PCE on hot drinks will surge to USD 17 in 2026.
Khan concludes: “Multinational and local companies are launching new products with innovative marketing strategies to develop new consumption occasions and expand their base. They are targeting young consumers, who are eager to experiment with innovative brew styles and flavours. However, the strict pandemic control measures, economic slowdown, and political standoff over Taiwan may slowdown the hot drinks sector’s growth momentum in the intermediate term.”
Symrise is presenting its broad range of diana foodTM blueberry ingredients and active compounds. Like other products from the portfolio of natural ingredients, it features various characteristics and performance benefits. They include competitiveness, various organoleptic properties, application-specific high-quality standards as for baby food, distinct certification like organic, and the option to claim health benefits.
Consumers around the world like blueberries for their indulgent properties and healthy image. These berries come with a delicious taste profile of fruity, sweet, and acidic notes. Also, they can contribute to maintaining health thanks to their content in antioxidants and phenolic compounds.
To always meet consumers’ expectations, Symrise leverages on its worldwide network of selection, sourcing, and processing facilities. For blueberry, the company responsibly sources three different species, from three distinct geographical regions, and processes the fresh fruits at locations close to the growing sources.
Symrise processes blueberry ingredients in France, Canada, and Chile. The production preserves the fruit’s inherent beneficial properties by using different technologies: concentration, to obtain juice concentrate; spray drying and roller drying technologies, to obtain various product formats (powders, flakes, and crunchies); and extraction, to concentrate the actives compounds.
Three blueberry species with distinct properties
Vaccinium myrtillus, also known as bilberry, grows in Eastern & Northern Europe. It has become popular for its distinctive blueberry taste and goes predominantly into sweet goods applications. Bilberry often goes into eye health products, thanks to its anthocyanins content.
Vaccinium angustifolium, wild blueberry (lowbush) is one of the oldest native berries in North America. It successfully grows in the harshest climatic conditions, which results in fruit with three times the phenolic compounds and twice the antioxidant power of blueberry (highbush). Wild blueberry (lowbush) stands out for varied health benefits. Findings from several clinical studies indicate that wild blueberry may provide benefits for delayed memory, mood, learning performance, and executive functions. With its range of wild blueberry (lowbush) extracts, highly concentrated in polyphenols, Symrise brings these health benefits into convenient formats for dietary supplement applications.
Vaccinium corymbosum is a blueberry cultivated in Latin America. Its intense dark purple color offers an interesting visual contrast and allows fruit recognition, particularly appreciated in food applications. They taste sweet and offer low acidity. As a cultivated crop, this species offers the most cost competitive solution of the three varieties.
Manufacturers can use the solutions from the three blueberry species in many applications, from RTD drinks and smoothies to breakfast cereals, bars, dessert toppings, baby and toddler snacks, sports nutrition products, and dietary supplements. With more than twenty distinct product references, Symrise offers solutions ranging from powders over flakes to crunchies.
SIG announced the completion of its acquisition of Pactiv Evergreen Inc.’s Asia Pacific chilled carton operations (“Evergreen Asia”). The business is fully consolidated from the beginning of August 2022.
On 5 January 2022, SIG announced that it had entered into an agreement to acquire Evergreen Asia, a leading system supplier of filling machines, cartons, closures and after-sales service in the chilled segment, covering dairy and non-carbonated soft drinks, with production facilities in mainland China, Taiwan and South Korea.
For the twelve months ended 31 December 2021, Evergreen Asia generated revenue of approximately EUR 135 million and adjusted EBITDA of approximately EUR 24 million1. It was acquired for an enterprise value of USD 335 million and SIG expects to realise run-rate cost synergies of approximately EUR 6 million.
The acquisition provides new growth opportunities in Asia, where demand is growing strongly especially for fresh milk in China. Evergreen Asia enables SIG to further expand its existing customer relationships with national dairies and provides access to new customers at a regional and local level. SIG intends to leverage its R&D know-how, innovation capabilities and its marketing expertise to introduce more innovative packaging formats in this market segment.
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Sponsored Post – Does the beverage and liquid food industry also have Olympic aspirations? Manufacturers of beverages and liquid food and machine manufacturers have long since recognised the potential. Digitalisation and digital transformation are one of the four main topics at drinktec 2022, which will be held in Munich from September 12 to 16, 2022. With its range of exhibitors and supporting program, the world’s leading trade fair for the beverage and liquid food industry offers broad views and focused approaches aimed at helping the industry become faster, achieve stronger results and intensify its focus on sustainable plant concepts in the next years.
(Photo: Messe München)
And the strong momentum around data use and process improvement is not only on the manufacturer side; retailers and consumers have long been active in these areas: Merging virtual and real worlds at the point of sale of the future is aimed at improving contact with consumers. One way to achieve that is through automation and networking with supply chain management, multimedia shopping environments for an individualised customer approach or online retailing.
An international study by the consulting firm PWC puts “digitising products and services” in second place among the top ten challenges of the next few years. The study by the German Engineering Federation (VDMA) on the future of food processing machinery also points in this direction: A supporter of the drinktec trade fair, the VDMA identifies digitalization and concepts for intelligent networking and data use as a major focus for the industry’s future alignment until 2035.
Solutions for different perspectives
Digitalisation in the world of beverages and liquid food offers real added benefits for many users. One area that benefits is process engineering, where precise temperature profiles in the manufacturing process can seamlessly track production and identify quality parameters during the early stages of production. The best example of this is in the brewing process: In collaboration with equipment manufacturers and breweries, researchers used machine learning to model an efficient and more sustainable malt yield, and identify significant influencing factors for the malt yield.
Real time is another keyword. At this fall’s drinktec, machine manufacturers will offer numerous solutions for obtaining real-time information from machines: The online tracking of production and filling processes can yield higher performance, predictive maintenance, efficient conversion processes, an overview of consumption values and clear data on product quality. Providers of software solutions, such as manufacturing execution systems (MES), can already give preliminary estimates of the optimisation potential: Efficiency gains of up to 20 percent are possible for line operations, overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) is improved through maintenance cycles that are up to 30 percent longer, and product changes can be made at the planned time with 99 percent certainty.
While these solutions often require “only” extensive data collection and recording, another supplier goes even further: Thanks to more accurate detection of water droplets, an empty glass inspector trained in deep learning significantly reduces the output of glass bottles identified as defective. Needless to say, this saving can also be directly converted into CO2 savings: Depending on the line output, 25 to 100 t of CO2 can be saved through this improved rejection rate.
The possibilities of machine learning software also raise the expectations for maintenance tasks: One exhibitor at drinktec is already using this digital tool to detect anomalies in separator machinery. Condition-based maintenance with AR data glasses seems to have been taught almost everywhere and has been widely adopted by machine suppliers.
Every digital application is also another checkmark on the sustainability list. This is particularly clear in the case of cleaning technology, which uses optical realtime detection of contamination even inside containers and tanks and enables highly specialized cleaning cycles. A machine learning tool ensures that individual contamination levels are learned, detected and treated correctly.
More inspiration in the supporting program
drinktec 2022 brings together the full scope of innovation for the beverage and liquid food industry: In addition to the exhibitor portfolio, including a directory that lets visitors find providers of solutions to digitise production operations and their supply chain, visitors can also look forward to the supporting program when planning their visit: With presentations on the key topic of digitalisation at the drinktec Inspiration Hub in Halls A3 and B3, exhibitors and visitors will have the opportunity for in-depth interaction: Concentrated expertise and innovative applications offer fresh impetus for the future-oriented alignment of the industry.
More information about drinktec can be found online at www.drinktec.com
Prognosfruit’s 2022 European apple and pear crop forecast reveals that apple production is set to increase by 1 % compared to 2021, while the upcoming pear crop is estimated to increase by 20 % compared to last year’s record low crop of the decade and by 5 % compared to the 3-year average. On 4 August 2022, more than 200 international representatives from the apple and pear sector joined Prognosfruit 2022 in Belgrade, Serbia, the first in-person Prognosfruit event after two online editions, to discuss the 2022 production forecast for apples and pears.
The World Apple and Pear Association (WAPA) released the 2022/2023 European apple and pear crop estimate on the occasion of the 47th edition of the Prognosfruit, which took place on August 3-5 in Belgrade, Serbia, returning as an in-person event after two years of online editions. Philippe Binard stated: “The apple production in the EU27 and UK is estimated to increase by 1 % to reach 12.167.887 T compared to last year. This year’s crop is also forecasted to be 9 % above the average of 2019-2020- 2021”. The European crop continues its adaptation to the varieties and quality specifications demanded by consumers. Dominik Wozniak, President of WAPA, indicated: “The prospects for the upcoming season are positive, although the sector will have to be prepared to face a variety of challenges including significant rising costs impacting the competitiveness of the sector, intense weather conditions, logistical issues, inflation, and difficulty to secure seasonal workers, with the ultimate goal of increasing consumption thanks to the quality of the products of the season and reverse the recent negative trend”.
Philippe Binard added: ”The EU pear crop for 2022 is estimated to increase by 20 % compared to last year’s record low crop of the decade and by 5 % compared to the 3-year average, rising to 2.077.000 T, mainly due to Italy and France more than doubling their production compared to 2021 (reaching 473.690 T and 137.000 T respectively), although, in the case of the former, the crop remains below its full potential.”. WAPA will continue to monitor the developments of the Northern Hemisphere crop and will issue updates when available.
The 2022 Prognosfruit Conference gathered more than 200 apple and pear sector experts from 23 countries. The event, organised by WAPA and Serbia Does Apples, featured the forecast and market analysis for the European apple and pear market as well as an overview of the latest trends in processing, organic, and the cider market. Luc Vanoideek (COPA COGECA-VBT) commented: “ The Belgrade meeting was the ideal opportunity to learn more about the development in the EU neighbourhood, including Serbia, Moldova, Ukraine, Turkey, as well as the Central Asia and Caucasus region” He further explained: “The additional contributions from representatives of China, India, and the USA provided to the conference a global outreach with the full picture of the whole Northern Hemisphere crop forecast.”
Prognosfruit is the compass for the apple and pear sector. Philippe Binard concluded: “The strong attendance at this first in-person Prognosfruit Conference after two years of online meetings is a clear sign that the sector representatives also very much appreciate the sense of community and networking opportunities that Prognosfruit provides. We look forward to continuing this tradition next year in Trento, Italy from 2 to 4 August 2023”.
Consumer fears over climate change have escalated around the globe over the last year. According to new research from the 2022 Mintel Consulting Sustainability Barometer, the number of global consumers citing climate change as a top three environmental concern has risen from an average of 39 % to 46 % between 2021-22*.
In addition to climate change, concern over water shortages (up from 27 % in 2021 to 31 % in 2022) and food shortages (up from 17 % to 23 %) have made the most significant gains in terms of environmental priorities in the past 12 months as extreme weather events and the conflict in Ukraine make these troubling realities more commonplace.
Climate change remains the world’s highest environmental priority with nearly half (46 %) of consumers globally citing it among their top three concerns. Air quality (eg exhaust fumes, industrial emissions) (36 %) and plastic pollution (eg ocean plastic) (33 %) complete the world’s top three environmental concerns; however, concerns about plastic pollution are down slightly from 36 % in 2021.
Growing awareness is evident as just under three in five (58 %) consumers globally agree that extreme weather events (eg flooding, heatwaves) in the country where they live encourage them to personally do more activities to protect the environment. And it seems helping the planet brings with it a feel-good factor as an overwhelming 68 % of consumers globally say doing things that benefit the environment makes them feel happy. While 38 % say they want to show other people how they are doing good for the environment (eg by sharing on social media). A further 24 % say they have researched their annual carbon footprint (eg with an online calculator or app).
While environmental priorities have shifted in the last year, consumers’ sustainable behaviours remain focused on simplicity and frugality: recycling packaging (59 % in 2022 v 60 % in 2021), meal planning to avoid food waste (53 % in 2022 v 52 % in 2021) and reducing clothes buying (50 % in 2022 v 52 % in 2021) remain the top global sustainable behaviours 2022-2021. Furthermore, global consumers’ optimism has stalled with 55 % believing that if we act now, we still have time to save the planet, compared to 54 % who said the same last year.
The second annual Mintel Consulting Sustainability Barometer features research and insight on consumers’ sustainability attitudes, behaviours and purchase preferences across 16 countries*. It offers recommendations for companies and brands based on best-in-class innovations, communications and campaigns.
Richard Cope, Senior Trends Consultant, Mintel Consulting, said: “The fact that concerns around climate change and water and food shortages are being prioritised ahead of previous preoccupations with waste and plastic pollution points towards the emergence of a more informed and hardened global consumer. Soaring temperatures, extreme weather events and disruptions to food, water and energy supply chains have given consumers a harsh reality check, hurting their health and wallets, and activating them in the process.
“In the meantime, escalating activism, regulatory reaction and the sheer scale of the challenges ahead and solutions required have educated global consumers enough to sniff out greenwashing campaigns and there’s no going back from that. This means companies will increasingly need to assert—and clearly communicate—the truly impactful actions they are taking to reduce emissions, rather than simply offset them or dip their toes into populist ‘plastic free’ campaigns. This growing awareness around resource inputs and emission and waste outputs will also spell the end for ‘environmentally friendly’ as a credible marketing term.
“Our research shows that the majority of consumers continue to see recycling and mitigating waste as important sustainable behaviours. This tells us that simple, frugal behaviours are the most popular among consumers which underlines the fact that brands’ sustainability initiatives need to deliver on value and convenience. Looking ahead to 2023, expect to see resource (food, water, money) conservation ascend further up the agenda and the use of economising technology refurbishers and urban peer access sharing economies to grow. For consumers, the connections between saving the environment, its resources and their money will strengthen.”
*1,000 internet users aged 16/18+ across 16 countries were surveyed in April 2022: Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, Spain, Thailand, UK, US; 500 internet users aged 16/18+ across 16 countries were surveyed in March 2021 with Indonesia and Mexico replaced by Poland and Ireland.
Tate & Lyle, a leading global provider of food and beverage ingredients and solutions, welcomed the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology to its USD 2 million Customer Innovation and Collaboration Centre in Dubai, as part of an initiative to reduce sugar and calories in food and drink products in the UAE and the wider Middle East region.
The Ministry, in collaboration with the UAE F&B Manufacturers Business Group, has developed the Middle East’s first Sugar & Calorie Reduction Knowledge Building Programme. Tate & Lyle, utilising its extensive expertise and technical capabilities, developed the eight-week programme which focuses on supporting food and beverage manufacturers in the region to reduce the sugar and calories in their products.
The programme has been designed to increase awareness of the latest technologies available in sugar and calorie reduction, offer practical experience working on specific prototypes in Tate & Lyle’s newly opened Customer Innovation and Collaboration Centre and provide ongoing support for F&B manufacturers.
A series of sessions have taken place, hosting more than 390 delegates from the Middle East and North Africa region with representatives from the F&B manufacturing value chain. Key government attendees joined from Dubai Municipality, Saudi Food and Drug Authority, Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, Sharjah City Municipality and Ministry of Health and Prevention, and key universities officials participated from Canadian University Dubai, Al Ain University and United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) and Manipal Academy of Higher Education.
The six-week programme concluded with a focus on reformulation in practice, with insight from Tate & Lyle’s specialist team. Other sessions addressed various topics, including how to make indulgent products healthier, the importance of taste, overcoming cost challenges, nutritional data and the regulatory challenges in sugar and calorie reduction.
Orange Juice
Global orange juice production for 2021/22 is forecast 12 percent higher to 1.6 million tons (65 degrees brix). Higher production in Brazil and Mexico is expected to more than offset US and EU declines. Higher consumption will be supported in part by a drawdown of US stocks. Exports are forecast up with the higher production in Brazil and Mexico. …
Data presented during the Prognosfruit conference speak to Poland’s and Italy’s good recovery. Forecasts for organic harvests are very promising. This year’s Interpoma Award will focus on sustainability.
Apple production figures showing overall stability are emerging from Prognosfruit, the annual conference organized by WAPA, the World Apple and Pear Association. During its 2022 edition, held in attendance in Belgrade after two years of pandemic-related online editions, the data presented on the upcoming European apple harvest estimate a yield of 12,168,000 tons which represent a slight growth of 1 % compared to 2021.
Poland spearheads the effort, boasting 4,495,000 tons (+ 5 %), followed by Italy at 2,150,000 tons, which equals a 5 % year-on-year growth. If we look at Italy, South Tyrol – the best-performing apple-growing region – registers a slight decrease in production (- 3 %) at 912,803 tons. A similar drop is evident in the Trentino region (- 1 %) with a forecast of 507,360 tons. France ranks third at 1,468,000 tons (+ 6 %), with Germany slightly behind at 1,067,000 tons (+ 6 %). One of the growing trends is Italy’s organic harvest, which is expected to reach a new record at just under 200,000 tons (+ 4 % YOY growth), representing more than 9 % of the total apple yield.
These facts and figures will dominate the Interpoma Congress scheduled for November 17 and 18 at Fiera Bolzano during the Interpoma trade fair (November 17-19, 2022). The international apple fair will focus on the industry’s innovations and cutting-edge automated fruit-picking technology, with experts from all over the world contributing to the debate. The program will, as usual, include many new items of interest, including the Congress’ coordinator himself, Walter Guerra. He has been the Vice-Director of the Laimburg Research Center since 2021, and the Head of the Pomology Working Group from 2005 onwards. Tickets to Interpoma Congress can be purchased online, with the Early Bird ticket costing €54 until August 31; after that, tickets will cost €69.
The most important world fair on apples would not be what it is without the Interpoma Award. The 2022 edition will focus on cutting-edge water-saving technologies in apple-growing. Two prizes will be awarded this year: one will go to companies or individuals, the other to start-ups. An expert jury will analyze the products or services submitted, such as machines, systems, components or devices. Applications for the award can be submitted by filling out an application form in English and sending it to interpoma@fieramesse.com. The deadline for submissions is September 30, 2022.
Givaudan, a global leader in taste and wellbeing, and Manus Bio, a leading biomanufacturer of natural products, announced the launch of BioNootkatone, a breakthrough ingredient that answers market demand for sustainable, natural, clean-label citrus flavour without the cost and supply volatility of traditional citrus extracts. In addition to these benefits, BioNootkatone offers a refreshing, natural citrus taste that can be used in a variety of food and beverages.
BioNootkatone is the result of Givaudan’s analytical, flavour, and processing expertise combined with the successful application of Manus Bio’s BioAssemblyLine™ Cell Factory engineering platform. BioNootkatone uses a non-GMO sugar source as the starting material and is made without using any citrus ingredients. It is the most cost-effective and sustainable natural nootkatone available on the market.
With a proprietary biomanufacturing and downstream process, Manus Bio and Givaudan are able to deliver a consistent high-quality product. Further, BioNootkatone is less impactful for climate change than nootkatone derived from citrus, because it is a comparatively lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emission ingredient. The development is an example of both Manus Bio’s and Givaudan’s strong commitment to sustainability and their purpose-driven innovation.
Nootkatone is a widely used ingredient in many citrus flavours and products around the world. Givaudan’s BioNootkatone has a superior taste profile and offers signature woody, citrus, and peely notes, without any of the off-notes often found in other nootkatones currently available on the market.
BioNootkatone will become an important component of Givaudan’s expansive Taste product portfolio, supporting its strategy to enable the co-creation of food experiences for consumers. As such, Givaudan is exclusively commercialising BioNootkatone globally with Manus Bio retaining all manufacturing rights.
The companies plan to continue their partnership, deploying Manus Bio’s powerful BioAssemblyLine™ Cell Factory engineering platform to bring other natural and sustainable ingredients to market.
WAPA, the World Apple and Pear Association, has released the apple and pear stock figures from 1 July 2022. The figures show that in Europe apple stocks increased by 16.5 % compared to 2021 to reach 535,521 T, while pear stocks increased by 27 % to 27,535 T. In the USA, pear stocks reached 10,403 T (75.2 % above 2021).
WAPA, the World Apple and Pear Association, collects every month the stock figures for apples and pears from Europe and the United States. WAPA can reveal that European apple stocks stood at 535,521 T as of 1 July 2022, which is 16.5 % above the figure of 2021. This trend can be explained by the increases concerning Jonagold (108.4 % up from 2021), Gala (+ 29.4 %), Red Jonaprince (+ 25.3 %), and Golden Delicious (+ 13 %), although several varieties reported a decrease compared to 2021, most notably Gloster, which halved its stocks compared to 2021 and Granny Smith (- 33.8 %). Pear stocks stood at 27,535 T on 1 July 2022, 27 % above the volume of 2021 thanks to Rocha (+ 4,060 T compared to 2021) and Conference pears (+ 1,970 T). Pears stocks in the USA stood at 10,403 T (75.2 % above 2021), with Anjou pears reaching 9,223 T and Red Anjou pears also increasing from 2021 ( + 957 T).
European pear stocks (Photo: WAPA)US pear stocks (Photo: WAPA)
Amid low rainfall in São Paulo State since the end of the Summer (in late March), farmers have been concerned about the effects of the current lack of moisture on orange trees. According to Inmet (Brazilian Institute of Meteorology), it has not rained in SP for 50 days, the longest drought since 2012. To make things worse, last month was the hottest July in SP in all times.
For the oranges still on tree (from the 2022/23 season), although major damages have not been reported, the drought is concerning. In dry-land groves, some fruits wilted, reducing both quality and size for the in natura market, making them only suitable to the industry. Besides, some oranges and leaves fell off due to high water stress.
Also, the effects of greening on oranges have increased this year in many Brazilian areas. It is important to consider that, according to Fundecitrus, last year, greening affected 22.37 % of the orange trees in SP, the highest average.
On the other hand, the lack of rains is necessary to cause groves some water stress, which is crucial for blooming. According to Cepea collaborators, in northern SP, where groves are irrigated, many farmers began irrigating the plants in mid-June, and trees are now beginning to bloom. In these areas, conditions have been favourable so far. In dry-land groves, blooming is expected to occur as soon as it rains in the citrus belt.
BRAZILIAN MARKET IN JULY – The demand for citrus increased in Brazil in July, favoured by the atypical warm weather during the month. On the other hand, although the orange harvesting was in full swing in SP last month, industries’ purchases were high, which pushed up quotations.
Sidel has expanded its presence in Africa with the opening of a new office in Nairobi, Kenya. The move increases its support for its customers in East Africa, a key market for Sidel and one of the continent’s fastest-growing regions.
Sidel has been serving the African market for many years. Building on this, the new East Africa office will enable it to drive development in the region by working more closely with customers to provide them with dedicated engineering capability and on-the-ground customer service.
“East Africa continues to show impressive market growth in Sidel’s core business areas of beverages, food, home and personal care packaging,” says Vishal Gupta, Managing Director for Sidel Services East Africa. “This is more than an office, it’s a symbol of our commitment to the African market, to our customers and to developing the skilled local engineering and operational talent pool.“
The East Africa region is made up of 15 countries, from Eritrea in the north to the island of Mauritius. Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya and Ethiopia have some of the highest levels of GDP and disposable income growth on the continent, indicating significant potential for years to come.
The new Sidel office, which was officially opened on 28th July, is located in the heart of Nairobi’s central business district alongside sister company TetraPak as well as the African head offices of other international companies.
Africa is home to the world’s youngest and fastest-urbanising population and has the potential to become one of the major sources of global growth. At more than one billion, sub-Saharan Africa’s population is currently growing at around 2.7 % a year – more than twice as fast as South Asia and Latin America.
Biosyntia has secured a Series B funding round of 11.5 million euros from a strong syndicate of experienced venture capital investors. The round was closed with an investment from the European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF) and the two existing investors, Sofinnova Partners and Novo Seeds, the early-stage investment and company creation team of Novo Holdings A/S. The investment will allow the company to enter the production phase of its first-of-its-kind, natural and sustainable active ingredients as well as expand the pipeline of products. The first product to be commercialized is a bio-based biotin (vitaminB7), for use in dietary supplements, food, and beauty products.
Biosyntia is an industrial biotech company delivering nature’singredients at scale both affordably and sustainably. Using cutting-edge biotechnology and proprietary R&D tools and insights, the company is developing first-of-its-kind precision fermentation processes to replace fossil-based alternatives. Its vision is to develop a natural and environmentally-friendly production process of essential nutritional active ingredients, reducing the use of petrochemically-based processes and driving a positive environmental impact. The company today has several commercial partnerships, including collaborations with large market players such as Givaudan and WACKER.
The multimillion-pound investment in Britvic’s Rugby factory comes as the company celebrates 35 years in the town
Rugby MP Mark Pawsey has paid a visit to Britvic’s largest production site to officially open the soft drink manufacturer’s most recent canning line.
The state-of-the-art line, already producing internationally known brands including Tango, Pepsi and 7UP, saw Britvic invest a further £26.9 million in the Rugby factory and create 20 new jobs. This brings the total number of employees at the site to over 340.
Based on Glebe Farm Industrial Estate, the factory boasts some of the fastest lines in Europe, with the new canning line turning out around 120,000 cans per hour. Bringing the site’s total to four canning lines, the most recent line boosts total capacity by around 20 %. This takes total production to an impressive rate of just under half a million cans per hour.
Speaking after the visit, Mark said: “It was a great pleasure to be able to open Britvic’s new canning line and see for myself the additional investment by Britvic in their Rugby site. This is great news for our local economy and has created a number of new jobs, including opportunities for apprentices from the local area. Britvic has a 35 year history of manufacturing in Rugby and the fourth canning line shows that the company remains committed to their site and their employees here.”
Mark continued: “We were also able to discuss the need to ensure that packaging remains sustainable and Britvic’s arrangement with Ardagh Group is a great example of minimising the carbon footprint. It is also vital that the sector continues to recycle as much as they can and the work which is ongoing at Britvic both for plastic and aluminium recycling is extremely positive.”
Nigel Paine, Supply Chain Director, added: “Britvic knows that a strong supply chain is fundamental to its continued success. Having created a modern supply chain for the long-term with our Business Capability Programme, we’re now supercharging it with further investment.
“Consumers love the convenience and sustainability credentials of our cans and, with the increased capacity this new line brings, we’ll be able to put even more of them in their hands this summer and in summers to come.”
Aluminium cans are 100 % recyclable and on average contain 74 % recycled material. Many of the cans used by Britvic also benefit from a considerably reduced carbon footprint due to their arrangement with metal packaging manufacturer Ardagh Group’s neighbouring factory, who send cans to Britvic through a tunnel linking the two factories.
Dominik Wiese is the new Head of Sales EMEA at ZIEMANN HOLVRIEKA. At the expert for tanks and process technology for the brewing, beverage and liquid food industries, Dominik Wiese will be responsible for the regions of Europe, Middle East, Africa and Central Asia.
From 2008 to 2011, Dominik Wiese studied economics with a focus on international business administration and marketing at the Baden-Württemberg Cooperative State University. He can look back on more than 10 years of professional experience in the sales of mechanical components for the international pharmaceutical, biotech, food and beverage industries.
100 % grape must suppliers for entire MARTINI portfolio certified sustainable
After decades spent pioneering sustainable practices, MARTINI, the world’s number one Italian sparkling wine and vermouth from family-owned Bacardi, has reached a sustainability milestone – 100 % of the wineries for the entire MARTINI portfolio are now certified sustainable.
Every drop of grape juice used in the production of MARTINI vermouth and sparkling wines, including MARTINI Fiero and the new MARTINI Non-Alcoholic Aperitivo range, is now sourced from wineries certified according to the standard set by Equalitas, the most comprehensive sustainability standard in Italian wine making.
With the sugarcane for BACARDÍ® rum and the 10 botanicals for BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® already 100 % sustainable sourced, this news is another major step towards Bacardi achieving its 2025 goal of sourcing 100 % of its key ingredients from sustainably certified suppliers.
Established 160 years ago next year, MARTINI has long pioneered doing the right thing for the environment. In 1987, L’Osservatorio MARTINI – the MARTINI Observatory – was established in Northern Italy as a center dedicated to promoting sustainable farming methods, first for its wines and, more recently, the many botanical ingredients used to craft its iconic vermouths and non-alcoholic aperitivo range.
About Equalitas Equalitas is an Italian-born sustainability initiative promoted by Federdoc. Federdoc is the Italian Confederation of Voluntary Consortia for the Protection of the Designations of the Italian Wines. In 2015, Federdoc began several initiatives in the Italian wine value chain including the promotion of one main, certifiable, sustainability standard for companies in the wine sector. Equalitas is a so called “standard owner”, and it has issued the SOPD Equalitas standard, a set of good practice requirements and sustainability indicators. Through an audit made by third party Certification Bodies, wineries can certify against SOPD Equalitas.
Over a four-day period from 26–29 July 2022, all the passion of the international organic community was on display in Nuremberg. BIOFACH, the World’s Leading Fair for Organic Food, and VIVANESS, the International Trade Fair for Natural and Organic Personal Care, celebrated their comeback with a one-off ‘summer edition’. The more than 24,000 trade visitors from 137 countries were absolutely delighted to be reunited. Relishing the opportunity for personal exchanges, networking and in-depth discussions of topical issues, they discovered innovations and trends and enjoyed the multi-sensory experience of a diverse range of products from the 2,276 exhibitors from 94 countries.
Petra Wolf, member of the management board at NürnbergMesse says: “The organic food and natural and organic cosmetics sector got back down to business in Nuremberg for its highly international community gathering, and we’d like to say a big thank-you for what was a massive response! The mood in the halls was impressive. Everywhere you could hear people saying how glad they were to finally see one another again and be back in Nuremberg. Exhibitors and visitors alike emphasised the unique trade fair experience on site.”
The event offered numerous highlights including the Agriculture Forum in the congress, the dedicated display area “Unpackaged”, and the Workshop Area at VIVANESS, all of which made their debut in 2022. From the beginning, however, the major issues of our times like climate protection, sustainability and global food security were also a key theme.
“Again and again, participants emphasised the immense value of the personal encounters, but also the in-depth professional discussions, for highlighting the solutions offered by the organic system, especially in the current global circumstances. We are absolutely delighted that the sector has been discussing these very issues, both on-site and online, and helping to shape the future, from this venue at our one-off summer edition!” Wolf continues.
BIOFACH and VIVANESS Congress explored the issues of the day – live and on demand
The 123 technically informed sessions led by high-calibre presenters made the BIOFACH and VIVANESS Congress a cutting-edge forum for the sector. Alongside the main theme “Organic.Climate.Resilience”, the 2022 round of the congress explored issues relating to current market developments and trends as well as political and legislative frameworks.
Congress theme for BIOFACH 2023 already decided
As the World Agriculture Report states: “We need an agro-ecological evolution of agriculture, food production and consumption.” The BIOFACH Congress 2023 therefore aims to put the spotlight on the relationship between the organic system as the agriculture of the future, transformation, global crisis management and food security, including true cost. The ways in which the organic system contributes to more sustainable agricultural, social and nutritional choices will be identified, analysed and discussed. What potential does the organic system offer the planet? What global development tasks lie ahead for policymakers, the media and society, and specifically, the (organic) farming sector? Where does the organic system currently stand? From 14-17 February at BIOFACH and VIVANESS 2023, the opportunities and risks will be explored in the context of the key question: “Organic farming, climate protection and health: What’s the connection between healthy soil and healthy people?” The thematic focus of the congress will be jointly developed by IFOAM – Organics International, BÖLW (German Federation of Organic Food Producers) and BIOFACH.
Make a note of the date now: The next iteration of BIOFACH and VIVANESS will take place from 14–17 February 2023 at Exhibition Centre Nuremberg.
Stora Enso and Tetra Pak are jointly examining a shared beverage carton recycling solution to meet the growing recycling need in Benelux, responding to the demand for circular paper-based packaging solutions. The joint feasibility study includes a plan for a comprehensive beverage carton recycling facility at Stora Enso’s Langerbrugge site in Belgium. Processing of the fibers would take place at the Langerbrugge site, while the polymer and aluminum barrier materials would be recycled by a dedicated partner.
Approximately 75,000 tonnes of beverage cartons are put on the Benelux market annually, a growing volume of which more than 70 % is already collected for recycling. Currently, there is no existing beverage carton recycling infrastructure in Benelux. This collaboration between Stora Enso and Tetra Pak would create a complete recycling system for beverage cartons in Benelux and surrounding regions.
Within the solution, Stora Enso would process collected beverage cartons and recover the fibers. The recycled fibers would serve as source material for producing recycled containerboard within the Langerbrugge site, delivering a fully circular solution. Tetra Pak would secure a recycling solution for polymer and aluminum materials to be processed by a dedicated partner.
The recycling project is linked to Stora Enso’s recently announced feasibility study to potentially convert one of the Langerbrugge site’s paper lines into a high-volume recycled containerboard line. This feasibility study is expected to conclude in the first half of 2023. Upon on a decision to invest, the recycled containerboard line is expected to be in production during 2025. The joint study with Tetra Pak will follow the same timeline.
The proposed recycling line in Langerbrugge will initially process an estimated 50,000 tonnes of recycled cartons per year with the potential to increase.
“With this joint initiative, we underline our commitment to local recycling progress and improving infrastructure in Benelux, a region with high volumes of collected beverage cartons. Stora Enso is a trusted and important partner which has the know-how and experience we need in fiber recycling. Together with them, we have the potential to put in place a circular solution that helps us secure a world where a growing number of carton packages is collected, recycled and we can minimise litter” – Chakib Kara, Managing Director France & Benelux, Tetra Pak.
“At Stora Enso, we constantly pursue opportunities to deepen our commitment to a circular packaging future. Circularity advancement requires smart investments and collaboration with the right partners. By working jointly with Tetra Pak, we can simultaneously create value, enhance circularity, and grow our competitiveness.” – Markku Luoto, VP LPB Aseptic and CUK, Stora Enso.
Beverage cartons contain high-quality fresh fibers that are an excellent source material for producing recycled paper containerboard. The Langerbrugge site offers a strategically important location to enable a local paper-based packaging circularity solution. Further, beverage carton collection for recycling is already advanced in Benelux.
Starting in mid-July 2022, GEA and Israeli start-up Better Juice will conduct product tests on behalf of beverage manufacturers looking to lower the sugar content in drinks. To provide the service, the new GEA Better Juice Sugar Converter Skid, which the industrial systems supplier developed based on the Better Juice process, has been installed at the GEA Test Center in Ahaus, Germany. With this innovative solution for the juice industry, GEA is raising the profile of the Ahaus facility as a key hub for piloting aseptic processing and filling of sensitive foods and beverages.
Test Center provides solutions for unique product requirements
“We can now collaborate with our customers at the Test Center to strike the ideal balance between a sweet note and reduced sugar content,” says Gali Yarom, co-founder and joint CEO of Better Juice. To that end, the microbiologists from Better Juice will join forces with GEA’s specialist engineers to support and guide companies in running trials. The GEA Test Center at Ahaus will provide laboratory services dedicated to testing all important analytical parameters.
“It’s often necessary to initially demystify innovative solutions like the Better Juice process. That’s why it’s all the more important to make the case for the technology with manufacturers in person,” says Sascha Wesely who leads the Non-Alcoholic Beverages business at GEA. “The Ahaus trials help us optimize process efficiency right from the outset. By running scalable tests under real-life conditions, we significantly cut the time to market.”
A scalable, enzymatic solution to removing up to 80 percent of sugar from fresh juices
Thanks to a patented enzymatic process, this is the world’s first solution that naturally reduces the sugar content of fruit drinks by up to 80 percent, without affecting its nutritional value or authentic taste. The juice flows continuously through a bioreactor containing GMO-free, immobilized microorganisms which convert simple sugars into prebiotic, non-digestible molecules that benefit the intestinal flora. As a result, the GEA Better Juice Sugar Converter Skid succeeds in removing up to 80 percent of the sugar in natural fruit juices, concentrates as well as fruit-based mixtures, such as purees. At the end of 2021, the partners won their first commercial order from a company in the U.S. where, once integrated into production, the system will create juices with much less sugar.
Leading spore-forming probiotic BC30TM improves protein absorption from plant sources, a new clinical study has shown.
The findings are significant for food and beverage manufacturers because they demonstrate potential to offer an additional benefit in plant-based products containing BC30. There may be opportunities for products targeting seniors – who typically require higher protein intake to maintain muscle mass – as well as vegetarians, vegans, and athletes.
The double-blind randomised study was carried out over a two-week period, with 30 healthy women between the ages of 50 and 70 taking part. Each consumed a daily plant-based beverage containing 20 g of protein, sourced from a combination of pea and rice proteins, either with or without 1 billion CFUs (colony-forming units) of BC30 (Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086®).
After the final dose, blood samples were analysed for amino acid concentrations. Over the whole course of the measurement period, subjects in the BC30 group showed significantly higher values for total amino acids and total essential amino acids, as well as significantly higher than average levels of certain individual amino acids. The BC30 group also showed also showed higher maximum concentrations of total amino acids, essential amino acids, and several individual amino acids.
Part of Kerry’s ProActive Health Portfolio, BC30 is a patented spore-forming probiotic which can be used in a range of food and beverage products. It is backed by over 25 published papers, including a 2020 study demonstrating that it supports protein absorption from milk protein concentrate.
John Quilter, Kerry VP of Global Portfolio – ProActive Health, said: “Previous research has indicated the potential of BC30 to support protein absorption from plant-based sources, but this is the first human clinical study to do so. We’re now able to say that BC30 supports protein absorption from both dairy and plant sources – it’s another benefit that makes it the leading spore-forming probiotic.”
He added: “One of the reasons this research is so exciting is that it’s in line with so many contemporary food and nutrition trends. With demand for high-protein products firmly in the mainstream, consumers in all groups are interested in foods and beverages that offer efficient protein digestion. At the same time, more and more people are following plant-based diets and looking for sustainable nutrition solutions. Many vegetarians and vegans – along with groups like seniors and athletes – could benefit from more efficient absorption of protein to support outcomes such as muscle-building.”
The study was carried out by researchers at the Exercise and Performance Nutrition Laboratory at the School of Health Sciences at Lindenwood University, Missouri, led by Dr Chad Kerksick, Associate Professor of Exercise Science. A research poster was presented on June 17th, 2022, at the annual conference of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN). The full study is expected to be published in a scientific journal in late 2022 or early 2023.
About BC30TM BC30TM (Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086) is a patented, FDA GRAS probiotic ingredient found in more than 1,000 leading food and beverage products around the world. It is a shelf-stable, science-backed probiotic strain that has been shown to support digestive health, immune health, and protein absorption. Unlike most other probiotic strains, BC30 is a spore-former, which makes it highly stable and allows it to remain viable throughout most manufacturing processes and the low pH of stomach acid. Well-researched and easy to formulate into functional food, beverages and companion animal products, BC30 is backed by over 25 published papers. Part of Kerry’s ProActive Health portfolio, BC30 is natural, and available in vegan, non-GMO Project-verified, organic-compliant and allergen-free versions.
As the first company in the industry, Symrise is sourcing Hibiscus verified at Gold level of SAI Platform’s Farm Sustainability Assessment (FSA). Symrise has committed itself to promoting sustainable agricultural practices in multiple crops and regions, including in its hibiscus supply chain. Its focus lies on working conditions and the sustainable use of water and soil. This brings the company one step closer to achieving its goal of sourcing all strategic biological raw materials sustainably by 2025.
The SAI verification audit took place in December 2021. Now, Symrise can offer the first sustainable hibiscus in the industry. This represents an important milestone in the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices. The plant grows in arid regions and its cultivation requires extensive manual labour. Both the harvest and the separation of seed from calyx for the plant’s reproduction happen by hand.
Symrise sources its hibiscus from the Egyptian region of Aswan. The company has been working with its well-established local partner El Mahaba for over 25 years. Thanks to this long-term cooperation, Symrise has gained direct access to the raw material’s source and can make use of the established practices. It can also identify opportunities that help secure sustainable supply chains. The use of a modern extraction process for the raw material results in an enormous reduction in water consumption and simultaneously increases the yield of the rich hibiscus colour.
Program supports farmers in the region
Symrise wants to use the program to address the needs of the next generation of hibiscus farmers by further advancing its holistic and collaborative approach. The company is involving more farmers in its program and is networking more closely with its customers, thereby increasing the positive effects that the partners can achieve together. “Our collaboration with El Mahaba and the local farmers supports those directly involved and the entire region. In addition, the sustainable cultivation of hibiscus that we promote conserves resources and thus contributes to climate protection,” says Laurence Briand, Sustainable Development Manager at Symrise.
Verified hibiscus promotes the quality of many products such as cosmetics and beverages
To fulfill the criteria for verification and maintain them continuously, independent third parties audit the farms every three years. They ask the farmers and operating groups to evaluate and grade their social, environmental, economic, and general management practices.
With the sustainable cultivation of hibiscus, Symrise is continuing to pursue its goal of sourcing 100 percent of its strategic biological raw materials sustainably by 2025. As part of this goal, the company wants to generate added value along the entire supply chain and expand the portfolio of sustainable raw materials for its customers.
Since December 1, 2021, Alexander John has been strengthening the team of ZIEMANN HOLVRIEKA GmbH, Ludwigsburg as Head of Sales. At the expert for tanks and process technology for the brewing, beverage and liquid food industry, Alexander John will be responsible for sales in Africa. “We are pleased that we were able to win over a brewing technologist with such a profound knowledge of the process and plant industry. Together with him, we will further intensify our activities on this emerging continent. We are convinced that our product and service portfolio is extremely attractive for the given framework conditions there”, says Florian Schneider, Managing Director of Sales and Marketing of ZIEMANN HOLVRIEKA GmbH. For example, on the African continent, other starch sources are often used in addition to the usual raw materials, such as malt, which can be covered in a tailor-made way by the wide range of ZIEMANN HOLVRIEKA’s in-house lautering technologies.
Alexander John is a trained brewer. After graduating as a brewing engineer, John worked as a project engineer and international sales manager for many years. An almost one-year stay in Nigeria for a large brownfield project for a global beverage group strengthened his affinity for the African market. “I am looking forward to supporting the companies in my sales area with my practical knowledge. Together with our customers, we will find the perfect solution for every challenge and plant size”, John summarizes.
Alexander John supports the customers in Africa from the headquarters in Ludwigsburg.
EARI Beverage Group, a diversified beverage and media group, announces the acquisition of the Blossom Botanical Water Brand.
Adding to the EARI Beverage Group portfolio, the acquisition of Blossom Botanical Water expands the footprint in the functional and craft beverage market segments. The Blossom brand fits perfectly with EARI’s strategy of identifying and acquiring brands in high-growth categories that have proven operating models and clear consumer acceptance. Blossom is credited with creating a new sub-category of plant-based waters using botanicals. The brand has distribution along the US East Coast and Midwest and has generated roughly USD 4 million in gross sales since inception.
About Blossom Botanical Water Founded in Massachusetts 10 years ago and inspired by nature, Blossom Botanical Water is distinguished by its use of flower botanicals as a key flavour component across its portfolio of products. At only 20 calories per 16.9 oz bottle, it’s a delicious, healthy alternative to both plain water and high-sugar sodas or juices. Blossom infuses pure spring water with the taste and aroma extracted from real blossoms, then uses a complementary fruit to create five hand-crafted unique flavours of distinctive appeal: Lemon Rose, Plum Jasmine, Mango Hibiscus, Pomegranate Geranium and Grapefruit Lilac. Blossom Water is further enhanced for your health by providing scientifically proven benefit to strengthen immunity, the body’s best defense for maintaining wellness and vitality. Each bottle contains as much immune system support as 1 billion CFUs of probiotic from the strain Bacillus coagulants GBI-30 6086. Blossom Water’s drinks are certified non-GMO and free of gluten, caffeine, and sodium. They have no artificial flavours, sweeteners, colours, or preservatives, and they are kosher and vegan.
The sectors professionalisation is evolving in an ever uncertain and disruptive environment with more and more complex regulatory and business requirements to cope with societal and environmental concerns. In this context, Freshfel Europe is supporting initiatives for the sector such as the SHAFFE Master degree for the global fresh produce sector aiming at continuous training and education of its fresh produce business professionals.
The fresh produce industry is rapidly changing due to different factors. This is evident today, as the sector is affected not only by adverse weather conditions due to climate change, but also by complex logistical situations, the Covid pandemic, the rising production costs and the consequences of the war in Ukraine which has generated shortages of materials to produce and difficulties in accessing these conflicting markets.
In addition to all this, regulatory changes in the markets, and the emergence of more and more sustainability requirements are other aspects to be considered for the professionals of the fresh produce industry. Today the industry faces a more informed and demanding consumer, as well as a lower availability of workers, among others.
Philippe Binard, General Delegate of Freshfel Europe commented: “Freshfel Europe is please to support the Master in Communication, Marketing and International Management for fresh produce professionals designed by SHAFFE. This will fill a gap and respond to the needs of industry professionals involved in global trade in this changing and challenging environment”.
The master’s degree launched by SHAFFE is a unique opportunity to achieve this goal while motivating young talent to be part of a very professional business environment.
The 2021-2022 Florida all orange forecast released today by the USDA Agricultural Statistics Board is 41.0 million boxes. The total is comprised of 18.3 million boxes of non-Valencia oranges (early, mid-season, and Navel varieties), up slightly from the June forecast, and 22.7 million boxes of Valencia oranges, up 1 percent from the June forecast. The forecast of all Florida grapefruit production is up 1 percent at 3.33 million boxes. Of the total grapefruit forecast, 500,000 boxes are white, and 2.83 million boxes are the red varieties. The Florida all tangerine and tangelo forecast remains at 750,000 boxes …
Please download the full citrus crop production forecast: www.nass.usda.gov
The 2022/23 harvesting of early fruits is advancing in São Paulo state. In this scenario, industrial processing activities are following the harvesting pace and requiring more fruits.
According to players from the industry, the ratio of early fruits has improved and practically all fruits have been allowed for delivery, both in the spot market or for contracts. The industrial yield, however, is still low, which is common at the beginning of the crop.
Crushing activities are now taking place in eight processors in São Paulo: Araraquara, Araras, Bebedouro, Catanduva, Colina, Conchal and two in Matão. The companies have already been receiving some volumes of pera orange, but the majority is early fruits – the pera orange availability tends to increase from mid-September onwards.
In the spot market, values are ranging from 27.00 and 28.00 BRL per 40.8-kilo box, on tree, harvested and delivered at the processor. As for contracts, quotations may hit 31.00 BRL per box in big companies. In small processing companies, values are at 35.00 BRL/box.
Refresco Group B.V., the global independent beverage solutions provider for Global, National and Emerging (GNE) brands, and retailers in Europe and North America, announced that the acquisition of a majority stake in Refresco by KKR has been completed, following the receipt of regulatory approvals from the competition authorities.
On February 22, 2022, Refresco and KKR announced that they had entered into a definitive agreement for KKR to acquire a majority stake in the Company, with Refresco’s existing investors, PAI Partners and British Columbia Investment Management Corporation (“BCI”), maintaining a significant minority position.
Hans Roelofs, CEO, Refresco: “I am excited to start the next chapter in the development of our company, with KKR as our new majority owner. We will continue to execute our strategy, focused on growing alongside our customers and expanding into new categories and geographies. We look forward to leveraging KKR’s capabilities, operational expertise and commitment to sustainability to further strengthen our position and achieve our vision of ‘Our Drinks On Every Table’.”
Science and business join forces in Brazil to accelerate innovation in food by focusing on the sustainable use of LATAM’s biodiversity and affordable nutrition for consumers
Three leading global companies, Givaudan, Bühler, and Cargill, have formed a consortium in collaboration with the FoodTech HUB Latam and ITAL, Food Technology Institute, to build a food innovation centre in the city of Campinas, recognised as Brazil’s tech powerhouse. The “Tropical Food Innovation Lab” will be located at the Food Technology Institute, ITAL, in a fully refurbished, 1,300 square metre area.
This new hub will be the go-to place in Latin America to connect and develop sustainable, future food and beverage products. Start-ups, companies, investors, universities and research institutions will have direct access to high-end technologies for rapid prototyping and plugging into the global food tech ecosystem that will foster fast-paced innovation in the food and beverage sector.
The most current generation of wet and dry extrusion systems for plant-based proteins, as well as beverages processing units will add complementary capabilities to the existing facilities of ITAL. When complete, the facility will feature new application labs and a state of the art demo kitchen, where consumers, food scientists, nutritionists, chefs, mixologists and marketers, among other professionals, will work together to create sustainable new products.
In a world facing major challenges from climate change, combined with a population expected to exceed 9.5 billion people by 2050, it is essential for the food industry to take positive action and work towards a regenerative and equitable food system that and provides healthy, safe and nutritious food for all, while staying within the planetary boundaries.
Brazil has the richest plant biodiversity on the planet, distributed in six major biomes and is one of the world’s main food producers. Yet immense potential remains, with regards to healthy and sustainable products, novel food and food waste reduction, contributing to Food Systems Transformation.
The Tropical Food Innovation Lab is planned to open in Q1 2023.
This summer, KeVita®, a leading brand of delicious, probiotic sparkling beverages, is putting a modern twist on the beloved classic taste of childhood lemonade with its new line of light and refreshing Sparking Probiotic Lemonades. The delightfully bubbly summertime drinks, available in flavours Classic and Peach, taste delicious, are packed with billions of live probiotics, and are made with organic ingredients and fermented water kefir culture. Each 15.2-ounce serving bottle of KeVita’s certified non-alcoholic Sparkling Probiotic Lemonade contains 30 calories or less and 6 g of sugar.
KeVita Sparkling Probiotic Lemonades are available now in the US.
The Prognosfruit Conference is Europe’s leading annual event for the apple and pear sector, gathering growers from across Europe. After two successful online events in 2020 and 2021, Prognosfruit returns as an in-person event in Belgrade, Serbia, from the 3rd to the 5th of August 2022. Registrations are now open, and stakeholders and journalists are welcome to register via the Prognosfruit website. The complete programme of the 3-day event is now available.
Prognosfruit, the leading annual event for the apple and pear sector, will take place in Belgrade, Serbia, from the 3rd to the 5th of August 2022, returning as an in-person event after two successful online editions. Registrations for Prognosfruit 2022, organised by WAPA in cooperation with Serbia Does Apples, are now open on the Prognosfruit website.
Since 1976, Prognosfruit has released the annual apple and pear production forecast for the upcoming season. This year, the three-day event during which the report will be released will see representatives of the sector gather to discuss the Northern Hemisphere situation as well as global perspectives for apples and pears. The complete programme of Prognosfruit 2022 is available below and on the Prognosfruit website, along with the online registration form to attend the conference.
The 3-day event will be structured as follows:
On August 3rd, the Prognosfruit 2022 participants will enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city of Belgrade, followed
by the Welcome Reception, which will take place at Belgrade’s Royal Palace;
The Prognosfruit 2022 Conference will take place on August 4th at the Hyatt Regency Belgrade. In the morning session, the European apple and pear forecast for the upcoming season will be revealed and complemented by an analysis of the market situation in the USA and China and a panel discussion with the major EU producers. The afternoon session will focus on the global perspectives for apples and pears, with an analysis of rising costs and logistical hurdles and an analysis of the sector in the EU neighbourhood;
The Conference will be followed by a Gala Dinner at the Kalemegdanska terasa on the evening of August 4th;
The event will conclude on August 5th with a technical visit to the apple orchard of the company Atos Fructum,
on the southern slope of Fruška Gora.
All the information about Prognosfruit 2022 and the online registration form to attend the conference available on the Prognosfruit website.
GNT has expanded its range of EU organic-certified EXBERRY® colouring foods with new yellow and green shades made from organic safflower.
The organic market is seeing exceptional growth1 as modern consumers pay closer attention to food and drink products’ health and sustainability credentials. In response to the rising demand, GNT has launched two new EXBERRY® organics products.
EXBERRY® organics ‘Fruit & Veg Yellow’ is made from organic safflower and organic apple, while EXBERRY® organics ‘Veg Green’ is made from organic safflower and organic spirulina. Both are compliant with Organic Regulation (EU) 2018/848.
Suitable for a wide variety of food and beverage applications, the new products extend an EXBERRY® organics range that already features red, purple, blue, and orange options.
GNT Europa’s Managing Director, Petra Thiele, said: “EXBERRY® organics can be used to create spectacularly vibrant food and drink while maintaining perfectly clean ingredient lists. We’re delighted to now be able to introduce colouring foods made from organic safflower concentrate to the market, opening up exciting new possibilities for organic brands.”
Based on the principle of colouring food with food, EXBERRY® organics are created from edible fruit, vegetables, and plants using traditional physical processing methods. They are certified organic in accordance with EU regulations and qualify for completely clean and clear label declarations throughout much of the world.
EXBERRY® organics concentrates are also 100 % vegan-friendly, halal, and kosher. In addition, the fully traceable raw materials are grown using sustainable methods by farmers working as part of GNT’s vertically integrated supply chain.
1FiBL & IFOAM ‘The World of Organic Agriculture’ (2022)
Sponsored Post – Does the beverage and liquid food industry also have Olympic aspirations? Manufacturers of beverages and liquid food and machine manufacturers have long since recognised the potential. Digitalisation and digital transformation are one of the four main topics at drinktec 2022, which will be held in Munich from September 12 to 16, 2022. With its range of exhibitors and supporting program, the world’s leading trade fair for the beverage and liquid food industry offers broad views and focused approaches aimed at helping the industry become faster, achieve stronger results and intensify its focus on sustainable plant concepts in the next years.
(Photo: Messe München)
And the strong momentum around data use and process improvement is not only on the manufacturer side; retailers and consumers have long been active in these areas: Merging virtual and real worlds at the point of sale of the future is aimed at improving contact with consumers. One way to achieve that is through automation and networking with supply chain management, multimedia shopping environments for an individualised customer approach or online retailing.
An international study by the consulting firm PWC puts “digitising products and services” in second place among the top ten challenges of the next few years. The study by the German Engineering Federation (VDMA) on the future of food processing machinery also points in this direction: A supporter of the drinktec trade fair, the VDMA identifies digitalisation and concepts for intelligent networking and data use as a major focus for the industry’s future alignment until 2035.
Solutions for different perspectives
Digitalisation in the world of beverages and liquid food offers real added benefits for many users. One area that benefits is process engineering, where precise temperature profiles in the manufacturing process can seamlessly track production and identify quality parameters during the early stages of production. The best example of this is in the brewing process: In collaboration with equipment manufacturers and breweries, researchers used machine learning to model an efficient and more sustainable malt yield, and identify significant influencing factors for the malt yield.
Real time is another keyword. At this fall’s drinktec, machine manufacturers will offer numerous solutions for obtaining real-time information from machines: The online tracking of production and filling processes can yield higher performance, predictive maintenance, efficient conversion processes, an overview of consumption values and clear data on product quality. Providers of software solutions, such as manufacturing execution systems (MES), can already give preliminary estimates of the optimisation potential: Efficiency gains of up to 20 percent are possible for line operations, overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) is improved through maintenance cycles that are up to 30 percent longer, and product changes can be made at the planned time with 99 percent certainty.
While these solutions often require “only” extensive data collection and recording, another supplier goes even further: Thanks to more accurate detection of water droplets, an empty glass inspector trained in deep learning significantly reduces the output of glass bottles identified as defective. Needless to say, this saving can also be directly converted into CO2 savings: Depending on the line output, 25 to 100 t of CO2 can be saved through this improved rejection rate.
The possibilities of machine learning software also raise the expectations for maintenance tasks: One exhibitor at drinktec is already using this digital tool to detect anomalies in separator machinery. Condition-based maintenance with AR data glasses seems to have been taught almost everywhere and has been widely adopted by machine suppliers.
Every digital application is also another checkmark on the sustainability list. This is particularly clear in the case of cleaning technology, which uses optical realtime detection of contamination even inside containers and tanks and enables highly specialised cleaning cycles. A machine learning tool ensures that individual contamination levels are learned, detected and treated correctly.
More inspiration in the supporting program
drinktec 2022 brings together the full scope of innovation for the beverage and liquid food industry: In addition to the exhibitor portfolio, including a directory that lets visitors find providers of solutions to digitise production operations and their supply chain, visitors can also look forward to the supporting program when planning their visit: With presentations on the key topic of digitalisation at the drinktec Inspiration Hub in Halls A3 and B3, exhibitors and visitors will have the opportunity for in-depth interaction: Concentrated expertise and innovative applications offer fresh impetus for the future-oriented alignment of the industry.
More information about drinktec can be found online at www.drinktec.com
The saying ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’ is well known but is there any truth in it? There may be according to a major ‘super study’, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association1, which found that not only apples – but orange juice, onions, carrots, broccoli and cabbage – are associated with lower risk of heart disease and stroke.
Scientists at the University of Toronto sifted through more than 80 unique cohort studies which, overall, followed up 4,031,896 individuals for an average of 11 years. During that time, more than 125,000 cardiovascular events e.g. strokes and heart attacks were recorded.
Author, Professor John Sievenpiper, commented: “Public health policies discourage the consumption of certain fruit sources such as 100 % fruit juice, dried fruit, and tropical fruits because of their sugar content and promote vegetables before fruit. However, we found that that different sources of fruit, including 100 % fruit juice, were associated with comparable cardiovascular disease risk reduction as that of vegetables.
“Public health guidance to limit the intake of certain fruit sources because of concerns related to their contribution to sugars may have unintended harm in preventing people from meeting fruit and vegetable targets for cardiovascular disease risk reduction”.
Looking at the detail, the study found that drinking 100 % fruit juice lowered the relative risk of dying from a stroke by 33 percent while eating fruit in general lowered risk by 13 percent. Vegetables cut the risk of stroke deaths by 6 percent. For heart disease mortality, fruit, vegetables and fruit juices were similarly associated with a relative risk reduction of around 13 – 14 percent.
According to the authors, the most important individual fruits and vegetables for lowering the risk of developing cardiovascular disease were citrus fruits, 100 % fruit juices, apples, allium vegetables (garlic, onion, leeks, chives), carrots, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, sprouts) and green leafy vegetables (kale, spinach, watercress).
Professor Sievenpiper concluded: “Higher intakes of fruits and/or vegetables are associated with improvements in all cardiovascular disease outcomes, with fruit associated with the largest risk reductions.
“Greater benefits may be seen for some fruits and vegetables supporting recommendations for emphasizing specific fruit and vegetable sources in dietary guidelines. No fruit and vegetable sources were adversely associated with cardiovascular disease, including fruit sources of concern, such as 100 % fruit juice and dried fruit”.
1Zurbau A et al. (2020) Relation of different fruit and vegetable sources with incident cardiovascular outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. J Am Heart Assoc 9: e017728. DOI: 10.1161/JAHA.120.017728 https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/JAHA.120.017728
According to a WWF study, 42 percent of all cultivated fruits and vegetables worldwide are thrown away every year – even though they are eminently suitable for further processing. The Swedish company RSCUED wants to change this and has appointed itself fruit rescuers. Their business concept is as sustainable as it is unconventional and requires a special solution. This has now been delivered to them by the technology group GEA. With the innovative vacuum juicer GEA vaculiq, RSCUED can produce high-quality juices in the shortest possible time from raw materials that would otherwise have fallen victim to waste. The icing on the cake: the waste from production is also recycled into valuable fertilizer.
The GEA vaculiq 100 vacuum spiral filter (left) and the GEA MultiCrush milling system are pre-assembled on movable skids and can be used flexibly. (Photo: GEA)
On its way to food recycling, RSCUED has taken a big step forward together with the technical solution from GEA. “The advantages of the GEA skid for us were the very short processing time, efficiency, high product quality and flexibility. We need to be able to respond to seasonal supply just as quickly as to fluctuating incoming goods,” explains Truls Christenson, co-founder of RSCUED. This is because the company receives the fruit and vegetables sorted out for regular trade via donations from wholesalers, supermarkets, farms and delivery services. Private individuals who have larger quantities from their gardens also participate in RSCUED’s appeal.
GEA vaculiq with its vacuum spiral filter delivers the desired flexibility in full measure: The system processes a ton of fruit or vegetables within about twenty minutes and cleaning the system between productions takes just five minutes. Different varieties can thus be turned into high-quality juice in quick succession. And it does so with maximum yield: in the first test phase, RSCUED was able to produce twice as much juice compared to its previously used press. With a capacity of up to 1,800 liters per hour, RSCUED is now able to easily increase its production in the future thanks to GEA vaculiq and is also capable of receiving goods – besides Sweden – from all over Northern Europe.
RSCUED juices are becoming increasingly popular with customers. (Photo: RSCUED)
In addition, GEA’s vacuum spiral filter technology was convincing in terms of quality. With this juicing method, the products do not come into contact with oxygen, which is known to have unfavorable effects on vegetables and fruits. In addition, the gentle process preserves all healthy vitamins and secondary plant nutrients. Finally, the juice produced with GEA vaculiq not only looks better, it also tastes fresher and has a longer shelf life. “GEA’s overall concept is therefore an innovative and unique solution for us in the field of sustainable, industrial juice production,” adds Truls Christenson.
All’s well that ends well
And so the circle closes for GEA and RSCUED: The dry mash discharged by the vaculiq plant, together with remaining rejects, is ideally suited as a basis for fertilizer – which, as is well known, promotes the growth of new fruits and vegetables. This fertilizer is finally distributed through a large garden center chain in Sweden.
“When we founded RSCUED as a start-up seven years ago, we had the vision to stop the waste madness. Together with GEA, we have now been able to realize this on a higher level. With the new GEA vaculiq 100 vacuum juicer and the multiCrush milling system from GEA, we are very well positioned and can develop our production excellently”, says Truls Christenson. “And the faster, more flexible and more productive we are at RSCUED – the more we contribute to sustainability for a healthier planet.”
About RSCUED RSCUED was founded in Helsingborg in 2015 as a start-up. The company employs around 15 staff members and expects revenues of EUR 3,2 million in 2022. The company’s purpose is to rescue all kind of fruit and vegetables which would otherwise be wasted. RSCUED receives the fruit and vegetables sorted out for regular trade via donations from wholesalers, supermarkets, farms and delivery services from Sweden as well as Northern Europe. The products are sold via their webshop as well as in selected grocery stores, coffee shops and restaurants and in Sweden. Learn more here: rscued.se.
Nagardo, a new natural preservative from LANXESS, is now approved for use in non-alcoholic beverages in the European Union as well. “EU approval allows us to continue expanding the global footprint of Nagardo. The preservative is already in use in the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, and Canada,” said Monika Ebener, Global Marketing Director for Natural Antimicrobials at LANXESS. “We’re going to be launching in other markets as well. We are now proud to present our natural guardian in our home market, too.”
EU approval is regarded as the gold standard due to its thorough evaluation process. “This registration means that European beverage producers can now make use of a long-awaited natural preservative that not only reliably and efficiently safeguards product quality but also enables manufacturers to transform their product ranges to suit the emerging trend of consumer awareness and demand for natural ingredients. The use of Nagardo can also help companies to achieve their sustainability targets, partly by reducing the amount of plastic needed for packaging and partly because switching from hot filling or tunnel pasteurization to cold filling with Nagardo cuts energy usage.
Nagardo is used in various beverage categories, which means that a wide-ranging market can depend on the protection offered by this natural preservative.
Nagardo is based on glycolipids obtained from edible mushrooms, which were discovered in a comprehensive screening process encompassing more than 100,000 natural substances. It transpired
that they offer the kind of effectiveness that can be found only in nature – all that is needed is a dosage as much as 50 times smaller than is the case with commonly used synthetic preservatives. It is currently the most effective natural preservative for non-alcoholic beverages on the market.
Nagardo will be launched officially in Europe for the first time at this year’s drinktec, a trade show that will be taking place in Munich from September 12 to 16.
The cost of plastics, aluminium, paper and liquids materials used in flexible packaging reached new, record levels in the first quarter of 2022, maintaining the strong upward surge in prices seen throughout 2021, according to Flexible Packaging Europe (FPE). Continued pressure from soaring energy costs, as well as other external factors, means the dramatic increases seen in the last half of 2021 have now been exceeded.
In particular the cost of 20micron BOPP film shot up 45 % during January to March 2022 and has now doubled in price since the first quarter of 2021. Thin aluminium converter foil also jumped by 67 % in the same three months and is now 75 % higher than the end of 2020. Elsewhere, 12micron PET added 47 % in the same period to stand 50 % higher than just over a year ago, while 15m micron BOPA film added 33 %, marking a 44 % increase in 15 months.
LDPE and HDPE prices are still well above the price levels seen at the end of 2020, being 75 % and 54 % more. Both are still well above the price levels seen at the end of 2020, being 75 % and 50+ % more. All figures have been complied by Wood Mackenzie and ICIS.
Commenting on the figures, David Buckby, Senior Analyst at Wood Mackenzie said, “Substrate prices across the board continued to rise sharply in Q1, driven primarily, in many cases, by energy surcharges. Limited availability of materials also propped up prices, made worse by ongoing global logistics challenges. The high cost and unpredictability of offshore sourcing means that European producers were generally busy, with some fully booked and not accepting new orders.”
“Lead times for aluminium foil in Q1 were as long as five months compared to two months previously. For paper, they were often two to three months, up from four to six weeks. The extent of price increases from supplier to supplier depended heavily on the scope of previous hikes – timings do vary. Some producers which pushed through substantial energy surcharges and price rises in Q4 pushed for only moderate hikes or even rollovers in Q1,” he added.
“Russia’s invasion of Ukraine added further uncertainty to an already highly clouded outlook,” Buckby believes.
FPE sees continued strong demand for all flexible materials as growth indices for the markets its members serve all remain positive. However there has been a general slowdown in the pace of growth, which may take some pressure off already stretched supply shortages of raw materials and ancillary products, such as adhesives and inks. Logistics and utilities pricing increases had and will continue to have a large effect on conversion costs to flexibles packaging converters. After a brief pause oil prices are now increasing again, so this may weigh on any respite from continued flexible material price hikes.
Guido Aufdemkamp, FPE’s Executive Director thinks it is difficult to forecast the direction of the market in current circumstances. “Growth in demand in Europe for flexible packaging is almost certain. While the price increases could have an impact on the levels of demand this is unlikely as non-flexible packaging applications are faced with higher absolute increases per pack as more material is used. Add the continuing supply chain disruption and major energy issues to the equation and the outlook is uncertain. The conflict in Ukraine and the economic consequences of it across Europe were not something we could predict or anticipate. However flexible packaging producers have proved resilient in the past, most recently with the pandemic, so we are confident the sector will continue to be able to meet demand for its products.”
Celerant Capital, a specialised private equity sponsor, announced the acquisition of Krier Foods, a fifth-generation family-owned beverage company.
Founded in 1908, Krier is a premier manufacturer of a wide variety of Ready to Drink (RTD) beverages packaged in aluminum cans. Krier has a long history of driving canned beverage innovation through its Jolly Good brand and providing high quality contract manufacturing services for its customers’ portfolio of established and emerging brands. Krier’s production of carbonated sodas dates to the beginnings of the package format in the 1960s. With decades of institutional knowledge and a modern facility, Krier will continue its legacy of quality, service, and enabling its customers’ growth. Krier’s dedicated team and culture of excellence will continue to be the foundation of the Company’s success.
Krier announced the appointment of John Kowalchik, formerly CEO of Baxters North America and a veteran co-manufacturing leader, as its new CEO. Former CEO, John Rassel, who will continue as an advisor to the Company, will transition out of the day-to-day leadership of the Company to pursue charitable and community opportunities in Southeast Wisconsin. The senior leadership team of Krier will continue to lead it from its headquarters in Random Lake, WI (US).
Celerant Capital is a specialised private equity sponsor led by food manufacturing industry veterans that focuses exclusively on investing in food, beverage and enabling technologies. With highly-experienced senior industry professionals, Celerant focuses on acquiring businesses with competitive advantages and significant opportunities for value creation.
For marketing year (MY) 2021/22, Post revises its estimates for fresh lemon production to 1.90 million metric tons (MMT), up by 15 percent, due to favourable weather conditions. Fresh orange production is projected to increase to 920,000 metric tons (MT), and fresh tangerine production is expected to increase to 400,000 MT. Recent relatively favourable weather conditions for both sweet citrus fruits have allowed trees to recuperate from a stressful period characterised by drought followed by heavy rains. Lemon exports are projected to increase to 250,000 MT due to larger production, and sweet citrus exports are expected to increase slightly to 65,000 MT for tangerines and to 88,000 MT for oranges. Container availability shortages and higher fleet costs, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and global inflation, are impacting the activity of the Argentine citrus industry, increasing export costs by 100 percent.
This summer, leading branded soft drinks business Britvic is celebrating the 35th anniversary of its Rugby factory, thanking colleagues for their dedicated service and showcasing the investment and innovation that has become synonymous with the company’s flagship facility.
Based on Glebe Farm Industrial Estate, the site has seen over £125 million of investment since 2018, with the factory most recently benefitting from a £27 million investment in a new state-of-the-art canning line in September 2021.
This is Rugby’s fourth canning line, growing the site’s total capacity by around 20% and creating 20 new jobs at the facility.
Boasting some of the fastest lines in Europe, the site’s new canning line operates at a rate of around 120,000 cans per hour, taking the factory’s total production to an impressive rate of just under half a million cans per hour.
Rugby MP Mark Pawsey said: “Britvic’s 35 years in Rugby represent a great success both for the company and for our town’s local economy.
“Over those years, their flagship factory has grown and created hundreds of jobs, including a vibrant apprenticeships programme which has given many young people a first taste of work.
“I was delighted to see the further investment in their fourth canning line which demonstrates their commitment to the Rugby site for many years to come.”
The investment provided Britvic with the additional capacity to drive agility and exemplary customer service, as well as boost production of some of the country’s most loved brands, including Tango, 7UP and Pepsi MAX.
Importantly, investment has seen the work force increase at the site, helping to bring the total number of employees to more than 340 and reinforcing Britvic’s commitment to the local community.
These roles span numerous disciplines, from engineering to manufacturing, with apprenticeships also a key component of the additional rise in employee numbers.
Paramjeet Pahdi, Director of Operations at Rugby, said: “As we celebrate 35 years of our Rugby site, I’m proud to look back at the journey we’ve been on together to make this facility the beacon of success it is today.
“I would like to thank all our colleagues for their contribution over the decades, without their hard work and dedication I have no doubt that we would not be here celebrating such a milestone.
“Looking to the future, Britvic is focused on ensuring that Rugby continues its success story as we develop the site with further investment, securing our future for generations to come.”
Over the past 35 years, Rugby has become well known for showcasing some of the fastest and best manufacturing technology in Europe.
The Rugby factory has also played a key role in Britvic’s sustainability efforts.
Continuous improvements have seen the factory cut the amount of water it uses – most recently by using the cooling water from its combined heat and powerplant as a source of hot water for the site – helping Britvic work towards its net zero carbon emissions target.
Celebrations for the 35 year anniversary began in May with a family fun day attracting more than 500 people to the site.
Employees and their families enjoyed the day with a resident DJ, fairground rides, a penalty shoot out, mini golf and a Britvic bar.
Reducing sugar levels in everything from carbonated soft drinks and seltzers to dairy shakes has never been a higher priority for beverage brands and their suppliers globally.
Treatt’s sugar reduction capabilities are growing with the introduction of its new Brix Booster products.
The range extension follows the success of the first Brix Booster, and is in response to increasing consumer demand for authentic, sugar-like flavours which meet healthier living needs without compromising on taste.
The expanded range offers unique blends of all natural sweet ingredients, essences and aromas that do not add calories to finished beverages, delivering everything from subtle sugar cane notes, through to bold sugar profiles with rich molasses nuances.
Brix boosting benefits
Increases sweetness perception
Improves mouthfeel
Improves authentic sugar profile when formulating with high intensity sweeteners (HIS)
Lifts overall flavour profile of beverage
The Brix Boosters increase the perception of sweetness within a beverage while improving mouthfeel adding a more authentic sugar like profile. Because they contain the volatile aromas from natural sweet foodstuffs that have been specifically selected, they slot into a beverage formulation without disrupting the overall profile.
Rosie Travers, Health & Wellness Category Manager at Treatt comments: “Our Brix Boosters can be used as a sugar flavour ingredient in sugar free, low and reduced sugar formulations, or in conjunction with natural or synthetic high intensity sweeteners. This natural flavour provides an authentic sucrose impression to the sweetness profile. We have seen success across a wide range of applications in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. They deliver a sugar-like taste, rounded sweetness, improved mouthfeel, and lasting sugar flavour that works harmoniously within the flavour profile of the beverage.”
Introducing the range: 3 sugar taste profiles for any application
Brix Booster 9884 has a mild sugar flavour profile, reminiscent of unrefined sugar or sugar cane. Works well with flavoured waters, lemonade, citrus and berry flavour beverage applications.
Brix Booster 9885 has a rich sugar flavour profile, reminiscent of light brown sugar. Works well with orangeade, cola, tonic, tropical and berry flavour beverage applications.
Brix Booster 9886 delivers a bold sugar flavour profile, reminiscent of brown sugar with notes of dried fruits and molasses. Works well with iced tea, coffee, cola, ginger beer, brown and robust flavour beverage applications.
Nano Shot is launching their collection of CBD-infused beverages made with real fruit juice, no artificial flavours, zero calories/sugars and no THC. The product line, with its proprietary Nano emulsification technology, allows adult consumers to experience a near instant calm and relaxing sensation unlike most of the other options in the marketplace.
With stress, anxiety, and mental health issues on the rise in the post pandemic era, Nano Shot is launching their collection of CBD-infused beverages made with real fruit juice, no artificial flavours, zero calories/sugars and no THC. The product line, with its proprietary Nano emulsification technology, allows adult consumers to experience a near instant calm and relaxing sensation unlike most of the other options in the marketplace. Nano Shot is the contemporary solution for today’s health and wellness conscious consumer seeking real functionality and is currently available on-line (https://nano-shot.com) and in select markets throughout the US.
The collection is available in ready-to-drink 2oz. bottles and includes four flavours: Blueberry-Pomegranate, Pineapple-Coconut, Mango-Hot Chili, and Citrus.
Larry Harmon, Creator and Founder of Nano Shot developed the brand from a very personal space: “My mother was suffering from Parkinson’s disease and I knew that a 100 % natural CBD formulation, if created with a strict focus on the most scientifically advanced nano-emulsification process, could provide a product that assists with enhancing the quality of her daily life. I am very proud of our science and our team and can’t wait to spread the Nano Shot benefit to consumers across the country and the world.”
The Brazilian orange crop for Marketing Year (MY) 2021/22 is forecast at 414.4 million 40.8-kg boxes (MBx) or 16.91 million metric tons (MMT), an increase of 15 percent vis-à-vis the current season, supported by good weather conditions as of October 2021. Production costs are estimated at over R$ 33,000 per hectare (ha) or US$6,600/ha, up 27 percent compared to the previous crop, supported by high fertiliser, ag chemicals, and diesel prices. Total Brazilian FCOJ 65 Brix equivalent exports for MY 2021/22 are forecast to be relatively stable at 1.04 million metric tons (MT), an increase of 30,000 MT vis-à-vis MY 2020/21 …
South Africa is set for record citrus exports of 2.7 million tons in marketing year 2021/22 despite ongoing challenges. Favourable weather conditions, new areas under production, and higher demand in premium markets, such as the United States, are driving the growth in exports. Duty-free exports of citrus to the United States under the African Growth Opportunity Act reached a historic high of 100,234 MT in 2021. However, several challenges are facing the industry, including, soaring input costs, especially fuel and fertiliser, a major surge in shipping costs, ongoing operational challenges at the country’s ports, and the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on established trading patterns. As a result, profitability and sustainability of the industry are under threat and could limit future investments …
Turkey’s citrus production for MY 2021/22 is forecasted up year-over-year in large part due to improved weather conditions compared to the previous year’s hot weather. While production is up, growers are seeing profit margins shrink as input costs, such as fuel and fertiliser, increase at a faster clip than farm gate prices. To cut losses, some grapefruit, orange and mandarin growers opted to leave their crops unharvested. With the exception of oranges, more than 50 percent of Turkey’s citrus production is expected to be exported in MY 2021/22. Looking ahead to MY 2022/23, citrus production will likely decline because of freezing weather that damaged blossoms in March of this year …
Fermentalg, the French expert in the microalgae bioindustry, announces that it has reached the final technical milestone in the scale-up of Galdieria Blue Extract1 – the acid-stable natural blue food colour developed in partnership with DDW, part of Givaudan. The completion of the industrialisation work allows the partners to engage in the initial commercialisation stage of this new product, an alternative to synthetic blue colours for low pH food and beverage applications.
As part of the partnership agreement signed in June 2020, and in order to support the launch of this new colour, the achievement of this second milestone triggers an additional payment of EUR 1 million from DDW to Fermentalg in the form of a supplier’s advance repayable on future product deliveries. The first pre-commercial orders are expected before the end of the year.
In this context, Fermentalg will initiate the industrial transfer and production with a leading German toll manufacturer, in line with the strategy to increase and diversify its production capacity.
In parallel with the industrial transfer and pre-commercialisation efforts, applications with the European Food Safety Authority and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration are being pursued to obtain regulatory authorisations in the second half of 2023.
1originating from the Blue Origins® joint development program
Oral supplement containing Hydroxytyrosol and Punicalagin could help improve Dyslipidemia in an adult population without co-adjuvant treatment
According to recently published data from a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study1, supplementation with Euromed’s ingredient Pomalive®, a precise combination of standardized olive and pomegranate fruits extracts, could help to improve dyslipidemia, a condition resulting from an unbalanced distribution of different lipids (triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and LDL cholesterol), and a main risk factor in the development of cardiovascular diseases.
Researchers from the Nutrition Department, University Hospital La Paz (Madrid, Spain) found that oral intake of patent pending combined olives and pomegranate extracts (Pomalive®) for 8 weeks (n = 84) significantly reduced plasma triglycerides (p < 0.05), decreased LDL-C (p < 0.01) and increased HDL-C (p < 0.05) in middle-aged participants with dyslipidemia, without co-adjuvant treatment, and no adverse effects were observed. Currently, statins are the most effective class of drugs for improving lipid profiles but up to 10 % of patients experience side-effects that reduce compliance, thus limiting the risk reduction potential. Therefore, safe and effective alternatives are of great clinical interest.
This new publication further corroborates cardioprotective and antiatherosclerotic effects of combined hydroxytyrosol and punicalagin administration, as previously published. According to the researchers, the described improvements in the plasma lipid profiles of dyslipidemic subjects could contribute significantly to the improvement in endothelial dysfunction, arterial prehypertension and hypertension, as well as circulating plasma levels of oxLDL, as reported in 20192.
Pomalive® is a patent pending precise combination of standardized polyphenols obtained from pomegranate and olive fruits. Processed with an eco-friendly, water-only technology Pure-Hydro Process®, it is free from contaminants, organic solvent residuals and toxins. The raw material of the selected fruits is grown locally in the Mediterranean region — close to the manufacturing plant — according to strict and transparent quality control protocols.
Andrea Zangara, Scientific Marketing Manager at Euromed, says: “In an increasingly ageing society fighting lifestyle diseases such ASCVD, we see our natural, sustainably produced and high-purity product as a real contribution to the enhancement of quality of life in later years. The study results, achieved using gold standard protocols and in collaboration with an authoritative medical institution, provide more evidence on the cardiovascular health-promoting benefits of Pomalive®, making it an ideal inclusion in premium dietary supplements, functional foods and pharmaceuticals.”
1Quirós-Fernández R et al. Nutrients. 2022 Apr 29;14(9):1879 2Nutrients 2019, 11(3), 640; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11030640
Minute Maid is shaking up the juice drinks category—literally and figuratively—with the launch of Aguas Frescas.
The Latin American-inspired, noncarbonated beverage is made with real fruit juices and natural flavours, delivering a bold, “Refreshing AF” sensorial experience tailored to Gen Z tastes. Minute Maid Aguas Frescas is available in the US in 16-oz. cans in three fruity flavorus: Hibiscus, Mango and Strawberry. Two additional flavours, Limonada and Strawberry Limon, are available on Coca-Cola Freestyle fountain dispensers.
Recognising that the product’s disruptive proposition demands an equally disruptive marketing plan, all Minute Maid Aguas Frescas messaging features the playful double-entendre, “Refreshing AF”, to appeal to Gen Z consumers.
“Minute Maid AF is step one in refreshing this iconic brand and our messaging to bring it into the 22nd Century,” said Alex Ames, creative director, Nutrition. “It’s not every day you’re lucky enough to find a tagline—or two letters—that can serve as a shortcut to cultural and product relevancy. I’m super proud of our team for being truly disruptive and bringing one of Minute Maid’s most provocative marketing concepts ever out of presentations and into market. It only works because of how truly refreshing this product is.”
Minute Maid Aguas Frescas, which was named a Nielsen Superstar product concept, leverages Minute Maid’s position as the No. 1 fruit drinks/ades trademark with a breakthrough entry into the fastest-growing segment in ready-to-drink juice. A multi-generational Latin tradition, Aguas frescas are delicious, fruit-based waters with a strong multicultural following.
The product will fill a void for Gen Z, which until now hasn’t found a juice brand to quench their collective thirst for diverse, adventurous options. Minute Maid Aguas Frescas is a multi-year, multi-channel platform.
The launch will be supported by a robust sampling campaign to get more than 1 million cans in consumers’ hands, as well as PR, digital and social activations including online video, always-on social media content and virtual product placement in two Gen Z-favorite Amazon Prime shows: “Summer I Turned Pretty” and “The One That Got Away”—a first for The Coca-Cola Company. On Cinco de Mayo (May 5), Minute Maid Aguas Frescas debuted on the iconic Coca-Cola digital sign in New York City’s Times Square. In September, NASCAR Driver Daniel Suarez’s car will be wrapped with Minute Maid AF graphics at the Texas Motor Speedway race in Dallas.
“The juice drinks category is growing aggressively overall, but losing traction with younger consumers,” said Jorge Luzio, group director, Minute Maid. “We need to reinvigorate our connection with this next generation, who are seeking authentic, unique and unexpected experiences. With Minute Maid Aguas Frescas, we’re shaking things up in a big way and sending the message that the brand is here to stay.”
Living Wage is embedded within wider set of responsible pay practices aimed at creating equal opportunities and building a more inclusive society
Firmenich, one of the world’s largest privately-owned fragrance and taste companies, announces it has achieved living wage certification across all of its global operations. Firmenich is the second company in the world and the first in its industry to achieve this milestone, ensuring decent living standards for employees globally. Following a rigorous external assessment by Fair Wage Network, a widely recognised international NGO, the Group was awarded this pioneering certification three years ahead of its target completion date.
“I am very proud that Firmenich is one of only two companies worldwide to have succeeded in securing living wage certification,” said Gilbert Ghostine, CEO Firmenich. “As a critical pillar of our inclusive capitalism model, our progressive approach aims at creating a positive impact for all our stakeholders, and our employees are key to making us thrive as a responsible business. Ensuring that people, wherever they are, earn a living wage is a critical step towards building a more equitable and inclusive workplace and society. Fair Wage Network recognizes our concrete achievements in embedding fair compensation across our Group and I am particularly pleased this is raising the standard in our industry. I hope this inspires other organisations to join our efforts.”
“Firmenich continues to set the standard for excellence in the world of work, and our holistic strategy aims at securing equity and inclusion across the entire organisation. Building on achievements such as our EDGE certification, our no gender pay gap policy, equal representation on the Executive Committee, and a culture of diversity and inclusion, this certification will further strengthen Firmenich’s profile as a leading global employer,” said Mieke Van de Capelle, Chief Human Resources Officer at Firmenich. “Having reached this milestone already today, we will now further accelerate our efforts, partnering with suppliers to ensure that fair wage practices become the standard to do business together.”
The notion of a living wage is embedded within a wider set of responsible pay practices and principles already in place at Firmenich, such as fairness, equality and performance rewards. Living wage certification reinforces the Group’s equitable culture and helps to stimulate economic growth with benefits for its employees, and the wider community.
In 2021, Firmenich committed to providing a certified living wage to 100 % of employees globally by 2025. Having achieved this goal already today, Firmenich is engaged in driving strong practices on living wage across the value chain in collaboration with its customers and suppliers. Training for 100 major suppliers on human rights will include 10 new initiatives at source, including focus on women’s empowerment, education, human rights practices and living wage.
Firmenich is an active member in living wage initiatives, including the UN Global Compact Decent Work in Supply Chain platform; IDH (The Sustainable Trade Initiative); Sustainable Vanilla Initiative (SVI); and the Juice Covenant on the juice value chain. The Group has also been recognized by the United Nations Global Compact and will assume from June 2022 a global leadership position at the Labor and Decent Work Global Compact platform.
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Sponsored Post – Does the beverage and liquid food industry also have Olympic aspirations? Manufacturers of beverages and liquid food and machine manufacturers have long since recognised the potential. Digitalisation and digital transformation are one of the four main topics at drinktec 2022, which will be held in Munich from September 12 to 16, 2022. With its range of exhibitors and supporting program, the world’s leading trade fair for the beverage and liquid food industry offers broad views and focused approaches aimed at helping the industry become faster, achieve stronger results and intensify its focus on sustainable plant concepts in the next years.
