Martina Steinberger-Voracek will take over the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at AGRANA Zucker GmbH with effect from 1 November 2024.

Following her MBA at the University of Graz, Martina Steinberger-Voracek began her professional career at Henkel AG, where she held various top positions in marketing, sales and management, including Sales Director Austria, General Manager Austria, Vice President Sales and CEE Manager as well as Corporate Vice President Global Sales. She then embarked on an entrepreneurial career step as a start-up founder and also worked as a business consultant focussing on innovation, sales and trading strategy.

“We are delighted to have been able to attract Martina Steinberger-Voracek to our sugar division as CEO. With over 30 years of professional experience and an in-depth understanding of international sales management, go-to-market strategies and the management of transformation processes, she brings considerable expertise to AGRANA”, says Stephan Büttner, CEO of AGRANA Beteiligungs-AG.

Mintel, the experts in what consumers want and why, has announced three key trends that will shape consumer behaviour in the years ahead. In 2025 and beyond, we’ll witness the human mind, nature and technology aim to find harmony, though not always achieve it. Consumers and brands will live in a pendulum that constantly swings between a sense of control and a loss of control. Mintel’s objective for 2025 is to delve into the nuances of all seven Mintel Trend Drivers (Value, Wellbeing, Identity, Rights, Technology, Surroundings and Experiences) across three different contexts: Home, Community and Globe.

The three consumer trends for 2025 are:

• The Home: Under Construction

In an unpredictable housing market, true comfort and authenticity in our homes will come from celebrating imperfections and individuality rather than chasing an ideal that often eludes us.

• The Community: Linked Lives

Communities will exist in a collaborative space that defies physical limits, inspired by what brands and consumers can imagine together.

• The Globe: Tradition in Transition

The way things have always been done is changing by force as much as choice. Brands will need to embrace this inevitability to sustain progress and relevance.

The Home: Under Construction

Daniel Takacs, Mintel Associate Director, Consumer Trends, said: “The purpose of ‘home’ is evolving, and brands are being put at the forefront to inspire pieces of a home—not a complete home. Consumers are no longer waiting for the perfect functional space to start living. As people rebalance their routines and habits, they are doing so through a lens of optimising their time (e.g. multitasking) and their well-being (e.g. rituals). This contradiction of harmonising productivity with self-care is shaping the future of the home.

“As individuals grapple with the challenges of securing a stable home and accept that ownership expectations don’t always align with reality, familiar comforts will become even more vital. The growth of childless couples, new relationship models and ageing in your own home and communities, will all influence how people want to live. Concurrently, remote work will reshape family dynamics, impacting how children develop attachment bonds in environments where parents are constantly present. Modern home life, where emotional, practical and economic factors all play critical roles, will result in a reevaluation of defined household roles. In the envisioned future, home is not merely a place to live; it is a hub of health, efficiency and personalised comfort.”

The Community: Linked Lives

Daniel Takacs, Mintel Associate Director, Consumer Trends, said:
“In the face of inevitable change, people are looking to form stronger, sustainable and long-lasting connections to help them grow resilient to whatever life throws at them. Driven by a need to prepare for everything from climate change events to political shifts, the complexity and unpredictability of these issues make it neither logical nor desirable to tackle them alone. Consequently, social groups have become a necessary part of how people plan for the future, seeking out intentional companionship and collective support.

“Despite a fear of growing loneliness and isolation, there’s optimism in the fact that self-expression invites community, whether it’s Swifties or coffee enthusiasts. A brand’s tone can foster a sense of belonging and empowerment with its audiences, shaping a space where individuals can thrive and engage positively with each other.

“Ultimately, brands will have to adopt a balanced approach to AI, ensuring it supports human self-expression to mitigate the risk of increased social isolation. Brands will not only be viewed as a resource for products, but they will be central to creating spaces where individuals feel valued and supported.”

The Globe: Tradition in Transition

Daniel Takacs, Mintel Associate Director, Consumer Trends, said: “Consumers can no longer go about their daily lives without an awareness of the global changes at play, from extreme weather to advancing technology. Brands must be acutely aware of the evolving consumer sentiment that swings between moral values and basic needs. Environmental change, technological advancement and ageing populations will cause significant challenges for consumers. Tensions will arise between generations as Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) remain active well into old age, and Gen Alpha (born 2010-25) demand attention.

“In addition, the norms around health and beauty will see a notable shift, with the use of weight-loss drugs and cosmetic surgery becoming normalised. While these trends reflect shifting attitudes towards body image, as consumer expectations evolve, there will be a growing emphasis on transparency, safety and efficacy in health and beauty products. Brands will be called on to address immediate aesthetic desires and also prioritise long-term health, setting the stage for a future where wellness is accessible.”

Download the free report to learn more about Mintel’s 2025 Global Consumer Trends.

Arla Foods Ingredients is demonstrating how acid whey can be transformed into a valuable raw material for high-protein dairy products with an ‘upcycled’ positioning.

The new ‘Upcycle Your Whey to Value’ concept offers a solution to a long-standing sustainability challenge for the dairy industry. Two thirds of the milk used in the production of Greek yoghurt and other strained fermented dairy products ends up as waste.

Disposing of acid whey, the main side-stream from the process, is both expensive and associated with environmental risk. However it is nutrient-rich and, with the right expertise, can be transformed into a nutritious ingredient, opening up new opportunities for innovative food and beverage products.

Now Arla Foods Ingredients has created three new ambient dairy concepts that demonstrate the potential of acid whey to be used in products with an ‘upcycled’ positioning:

• An 8 % protein drinking yoghurt with pineapple / coconut flavours
• An 8 % protein creamy dessert with pineapple / coconut flavours
• An 8 % protein beverage with strawberry flavour.

In each of the recipes, acid whey, which accounts for between 50 % and 73 % of the full product, is combined with ingredients from the Nutrilac^® ProteinBoost range of patented microparticulated whey proteins.

As well as offering a mild dairy taste and smooth and creamy mouthfeel, the recipes are all suitable for processing on a standard dairy line, and offer good viscosity control and stability through shelf life.

The new concept is designed to help manufacturers meet a growing market need, with climate change and waste increasingly top of mind for dairy consumers. Over eight in ten are aware of sustainability issues in the category, and 20 % are actively changing their behaviour when buying dairy products.¹

Claus Bukbjerg Andersen, Senior Dairy Category Manager at Arla Foods Ingredients, said: “The use of upcycled side-streams can help brands reduce waste and increase their appeal to climate-conscious consumers. Additionally, acid whey is nutrient-rich and in combination with the right ingredients can be used to create exciting new products that offer indulgence as well as nutritional value. Allowing all the goodness of milk to be kept in the food chain is good for the planet, good for consumers and good for manufacturers, who can position products as upcycled, in line with a growing dairy industry trend.”

Arla Foods Ingredients will showcase the ‘Upcycle Your Whey to Value’ concept at Gulfood Manufacturing in Dubai (November 5th to 7th). Exhibiting at Stand R-K3 in Shk Rashid Hall, it will also demonstrate how Nutrilac^® ProteinBoost can be used to overcome technical challenges in high-protein dairy production, and highlight solutions for high-protein cheese.

¹New Nutrition Business, 10 Key Trends, 2023

SAMBAZON, a leading supplier of certified fair trade and organic Açaí, announced that its Açaí Superfruit Juice is now available with 50 % less sugar. Responding to consumer demand for lower sugar alternatives, SAMBAZON reformulated its popular juice using natural sweeteners like Agave Inulin to maintain its signature taste while significantly reducing the sugar and calories.

“Consumer feedback was clear-even loyal SAMBAZON buyers like the new product just as much as the original,” said Vicki Isip, Chief Marketing Officer at SAMBAZON. “We’ve optimised the flavour and sweetness to match our best-selling Original Açaí Juice while using natural ingredients to deliver a great-tasting product with all the nutritional benefits.” The new formulation retains all the antioxidants and vitamins of the original, but with 50 % less sugar and 29 % fewer calories. The relaunch also features a refreshed look, including the new SAMBAZON logo and transparent packaging that showcases the quality of the juice.

SAMBAZON’s revamped Açaí Superfruit Juice with less sugar is available in 32oz bottles at Whole Foods Market, Publix, and other retailers in the US in the refrigerated juice section.

About SAMBAZON^®
Founded in 2000, SAMBAZON, an acronym for Sustainable Management of the Brazilian Amazon, was the first company to introduce “Certified Açaí” to the world, supplying Organic and Fair Trade certified Açaí products such as Smoothie Packs, Ready-to-Eat Açaí Bowls, Juice, Energy drinks and Açaí Bites from a proprietary supply chain, and pioneering transparency from the “Palm of the tree to the Palm of your Hand.” SAMBAZON’s Fair Trade certification has helped to protect the Amazon Rainforest and its rich biodiversity and has helped to positively impact thousands of local growers by donating over $1 million to build or renovate healthcare centers, community centers, and schools. SAMBAZON Açaí Bowls retail concepts are available for franchising and licensing, transforming quick-serve restaurants for various segments such as Universities, Healthcare, Stadiums, Airports, and Neighborhoods.

Symrise continued its profitable growth trajectory in the first nine months of the year, achieving organic sales growth of 11.1 %. Considering portfolio and exchange rate effects, Group revenue rose to EUR 3,824 million in the first nine months (9M 2023: EUR 3,610 million), a plus of 5.9 % compared to the year-ago period. Both segments contributed to the positive development and increased sales in a global economic environment that remained challenging. In the third quarter, overall sales increased organically by 10.2 %. Despite negative exchange rate effects of 4.0 %, sales grew by 5.2 % in the reporting currency. Against the backdrop of robust organic growth, Symrise has specified its organic growth target, sales expected to come in at around 7 %.

Jean-Yves Parisot, CEO of Symrise AG: “Symrise was able to seamlessly continue the positive business development of the past months in the third quarter. Despite the current volatile market environment due to geopolitical tensions and continued inflation pressure, we are confident for the rest of the year and expect robust demand. Our diversified portfolio and broad, international footprint will continue to help us realise our growth potential and create sustainable value this year. We are firmly convinced that we have set the right course for the future.”

Sales development by region

The strongest organic growth was recorded in the Latin America region with 27.4 %, followed by the Asia/Pacific region with 11.2 % and EAME (Europe, Africa, Middle East) with 11.1 %. The main growth drivers were the Food & Beverage, Fragrance, Aroma Molecules and Pet Food business units. The North America region achieved organic growth of 2.3 %, driven primarily by the Food & Beverage and Aroma Molecules business units.

High growth in food, beverages and pet food

The Taste, Nutrition & Health segment increased sales organically by 10.4 % in the first nine months of the current fiscal year. In the third quarter, organic growth was 11.3 %. Taking into account portfolio and currency effects, the segment’s revenue rose to EUR 2,349 million in the first nine months (9M 2023: EUR 2,267 million). The portfolio effect from the sale of the beverage trading business in the UK within the Food & Beverage business unit had a negative impact of EUR 27 million on sales development.

The Food & Beverage division achieved double-digit organic growth in percentage terms. Strong growth impulses came from the application areas for sweet and savory products and beverages. All four regions, especially the EAME region, achieved high growth. The Naturals application area increased its revenues, especially in the North America and EAME regions.

The Pet Food division also achieved double-digit organic growth in percentage terms in the first nine months. Sales development was particularly dynamic in the Asia/Pacific and Latin America regions, with double-digit organic growth.

Sales development in the Aqua Feed business unit recorded declining organic growth. As part of the further portfolio streamlining with a focus on high-margin growth areas, Symrise intends to sell the business.

The probiotics business, which includes the majority stake in the listed company Probi AB, Lund, Sweden, generated slight growth, driven by the EAME region.

Strong sales growth in Consumer Fragrance and significant recovery in Aroma Molecules

The Scent & Care segment, which manages the fragrances, perfumery applications and cosmetic active ingredients business, achieved organic sales growth of 12.2 % in the first nine months and 8.4 % in the third quarter respectively. Taking into account portfolio and currency effects, revenue for the first nine months amounted to EUR 1,475 million (9M 2023: EUR 1,343 million).

The Fragrance division increased its sales organically in the double-digit percentage range in the first nine months. In particular, the Consumer Fragrance application area achieved double-digit percentage growth. The EAME, Asia/Pacific and Latin America regions in particular experienced very high market dynamics. The Fine Perfumery application area also continued its very positive development and achieved high single-digit percentage organic growth. Here, the Latin America and Asia/Pacific regions recorded good growth. The Oral Care application area achieved single-digit percentage organic growth, with good growth especially in the North America and Asia/Pacific regions.

Sales in the Aroma Molecules division recovered significantly in the first nine months of the current year. While the market environment continues to prove challenging, the resumption of production in Colonels Island, USA has resulted in a significant year-on-year increase in revenue. High double-digit growth figures were achieved in all regions.

Sales in the Cosmetic Ingredients division continued to develop strongly with high single-digit percentage organic growth. Revenues increased significantly in the EAME, Asia/Pacific and Latin America regions. Only the North America region showed just a slight year-on-year growth. The application areas for micro-protection and actives and botanicals also recorded very strong growth impulses.

Symrise specifies growth target for 2024

Based on the good business performance in the first nine months, Symrise is specifying its sales target for the full year 2024. The Group is now aiming for organic sales growth of around 7 %. The Group’s long-term organic growth expectation of 5 % to 7 % (CAGR) remains unchanged. The long-term EBITDA margin is expected to be in the range of 20 % to 23 %.

One of the world’s top agribusinesses, which handles approximately 10 % of global agricultural trade, along with a leading global citrus producer, is set to implement drip irrigation across 2,400 hectares of orchards in São Paulo, Minas Gerais, and Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The partnerships were signed with multinational Rivulis, one of the market leaders with the broadest and most complete portfolio of localised irrigation solutions on the market, with over 30 years of experience in Brazil and almost 100 years worldwide.

Drip irrigation is a method of localised irrigation that saves water and nutrients. This technique is based on applying water and nutrients at a low flow rate and high frequency. Water droplets are applied at short intervals, allowing application closer to the root in an efficient manner and avoiding wetting other parts of the plant.

Drip irrigation is particularly beneficial for citrus trees, which are highly sensitive to water stress. Accurate application of water at all stages of crop development, especially during the critical fruiting period, can significantly improve fruit size, quality, and uniformity, leading to higher yields and sustainability of farming practices.

According to Eran Ossmy, president of Rivulis’ Micro Irrigation Division, this strategic move by major citrus players is proof of the companies’ commitment to sustainability and the efficiency of their processes, such as optimising resources and water together with increasing productivity. “We are strongly positioned to support these challenges, as we offer comprehensive micro irrigation services, including design, installation, and support in the field. These systems are recognised for their efficiency in the use of resources and ability to distribute nutrients through fertigation,” he said.

Challenges and opportunities

The citrus industry, which is crucial to the national economy, generating around USD 2 billion annually and supporting around 200,000 jobs in the state of São Paulo alone, is expected to see a drop in production this year. Brazil is projected to record a 24 % reduction in its citrus harvest compared to the previous season.

Among the factors behind this downturn is an old enemy of the sector, the Asian citrus greening. Also known as Huanglongbing (HLB), the disease is a bacterial infection that seriously affects plants, becoming one of the two most serious problems worldwide due to its rapid spread and destructive impact on fruit.

Another challenge facing the sector is climate instability, with severe droughts and irregular rainfall throughout the harvest. “The use of advanced irrigation solutions helps to reduce these impacts, generating more security in production. That’s why the big companies in the sector are adopting this technology to help the country remain at the forefront of world production,” concludes Ossmy.

PulPac licensee, Stora Enso, announces the opening of a groundbreaking Dry Molded Fiber Production Unit in Skene, Sweden. The facility is the largest and most advanced of its kind, marking a significant milestone in sustainable packaging technology. Production is set to begin in Q4 2024 after successful large-scale testing.

Stora Enso’s Skene Production Unit utilises PulPac’s innovative Dry Molded Fiber process to produce high-performance formed fiber products, such as cup lids, designed to replace traditional plastics in food and beverage packaging. Unlike conventional wet forming, the dry process reduces water and energy consumption significantly, thus offering an even more sustainable manufacturing method for fiber-based packaging. Additionally, any excess material is recaptured and reused, ensuring a circular process with minimal waste.

At the heart of this innovation is the advanced technology developed by PulPac, the leading company in the field. Their Dry Molded Fiber technology provides efficient production at high speeds, enabling Stora Enso to meet growing market demand for fully renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable fiber-based packaging solutions.

The products produced with Dry Molded Fiber offer a significantly lower CO2 footprint compared to single-use plastics. The dry forming process offers also flexibility in barrier additives for customised functionality as well as an excellent surface finish with the option to advanced decoration possibilities.

Sustainability is at the core of Stora Enso’s operations. Implementing Dry Molded Fiber is an example how they continue to lead the transition to circular, low-carbon solutions in the packaging industry, making a lasting impact on both the environment and the communities it serves.

• Fundamentally nutritious: The emergence of weight-loss medications like Ozempic will redefine consumer perceptions of ‘food as medicine’ from being an added functional ingredient, to necessary to meeting daily essential nutrient needs.
• Rule rebellion:  Embrace consumers as ‘perfectly imperfect’ beings who are hungry for brands that help them ‘break the rules’ in food and drink.
• Chain reaction: As disruptions to the food supply become more frequent, the industry will need to encourage consumers to welcome and trust the new origins, ingredients and flavours that will emerge locally and globally.
• Hybrid harvests: Food and drink companies will need to illustrate how technology and agriculture work together to benefit consumers, farmers and the environment.

Fundamentally nutritious

Alex Beckett, Mintel Food & Drink Director, said: “The emergence of GLP-1 weight-loss medications will inspire consumers to reevaluate the relationship between food and medicine. Starting in 2025, brands must streamline their health claims to the critical nutrients they contain. Simplified claims that highlight protein, fibre, vitamins and mineral content will appeal to people who are using weight-loss drugs, as well as the majority of consumers who define their diets based on their individual needs and how food makes them feel. Expect to see an increase in nutrient-dense product innovations to improve short- and long-term health.

“Increased adoption of personal data collection will happen at the same time as consumers paying more attention to two metrics that are key to how GLP-1 weight-loss drugs work in the body: blood sugar and hormone health. Rising interest in blood sugar could increase the demand for low-glycemic formulas, as well as blood sugar monitoring beyond just diabetics. For hormone health, brands can support men and women as they navigate hormonal changes brought on by ageing.”

Rule rebellion 

Alex Beckett, Mintel Food & Drink Director, said: “As society increasingly accepts imperfections, food and drink brands can target these ‘perfectly imperfect’ consumers with innovation that breaks the invisible rules around food and drink consumption. Brands can lean into how consumers want to, or actually, consume food and drink rather than how they feel they ‘should’. By supporting these rebellious tendencies, brands can help consumers feel more represented by the outside-the-norm food and drink choices available to them.

“In the near future, brands will seek to break down continued social stigmas surrounding lesser-talked-about health issues. For example, currently less-seen on-pack and marketing messaging that directly mentions the role of food and drink in mental health management will become more commonplace. Meanwhile, there is further potential for ‘rule-breaking’ innovation from food and drink brands that are feeling the pressure to be sustainable, despite knowing that consumers won’t necessarily pay more for eco-credentials. Innovative brands can create new norms by developing products with unfamiliar sustainable ingredients that can be marketed on their unique taste.”

Chain reaction

Alex Beckett, Mintel Food & Drink Director, said: “More frequent climate-related production challenges and geopolitical events are increasing consumers’ food bills and awareness of how distant world events can affect their meal plans. In an increasingly volatile world, food and drink brands must clearly communicate how adjustments from local to global sourcing were made to benefit consumers. Cross-industry, multinational collaboration and scalable tech solutions will be required, but they are not without complications. More importantly, consumers will feel the consequences of these challenges personally, and brands must be ready with solutions.

“Looking ahead, more ingredients will be sourced from alternative and potentially more reliable growing regions, such as olive oil from Algeria or Peru. Brands can highlight the benefits of diversified sourcing, such as nuanced flavour variations. Many consumers’ local-centric identities will be transformed by social media, immigration and travel.”

Hybrid harvests

Alex Beckett, Mintel Food & Drink Director, said: “A greater use of technology in food and drink production is inevitable to meet current food supply challenges, yet many consumers are not ready to embrace it. Despite this resistance, brands can tap into consumers being open to technological advances that, for example, enhance convenience. They will need to tell consumers how nature and technology complement – or better yet, enhance – each other.

“Over the next few years, food and drink brands must prioritise how these technological advancements benefit the consumer first through better taste, greater nutrition or consistent supply—and the environment second. It will be imperative that new technology is humanised, particularly AI. For example, German juice brand Eckes-Granini’s marketing video announcing its partnership with Microsoft draws attention to how this technology makes a positive difference in their producers’ lives, not just making production more efficient.”

Download the free report to learn more about Mintel’s 2025 Global Food and Drink Trends.

Zotefoams, a world leader in cellular materials, announced that ReZorce, its sustainable mono-material barrier packaging range, has been named winner in the Product Innovation category at the 2024 Reuters Sustainability Awards.

This year, 700 entries from 50 countries contested 17 categories judged by an international panel of business leaders, academics, designers and changemakers in the field of sustainability. ReZorce won the Product Innovation category ahead of 13 other shortlisted entrants including other aseptic liquid packaging board (LPB) beverage cartons and packaging innovations.

Currently available aseptic beverage cartons – used for products such as fruit juices which are not refrigerated – are produced from composite layers of wood fibre, aluminium and polymer bonded together (LPB). Unlike ReZorce, these composite materials cannot be recycled through mainstream processes. ReZorce on the other hand has a mono-material design which leads to excellent performance in standard Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs). The resulting recyclate can be reused, including in the core of ReZorce cartons, bringing the prospect of circularity to the 250 billion unit-per-annum beverage carton market for the first time.

Zotefoams is currently in the latter stages of developing ReZorce for beverage carton applications and is preparing for trials with a north European supermarket chain.

During the Awards ceremony on October 1, judge Danielle Holly, Associate Director of the Aspen Institute, commented, “The judges thought [ReZorce] was an excellent and practical step towards fully recyclable packaging for widely used food and beverage formats. It’s exciting, it’s disruptive and it will really deliver an immense impact in everyday lives. Well done for pioneering it!”

Ronan Cox, Zotefoams Group CEO, comments, “We are delighted that ReZorce has been recognised on the global stage in this way. Entrants to the Reuters Sustainability Awards include some of the world’s best-known and most-admired companies and it is an honour for Zotefoams to stand alongside them.

“It is also telling that the judges recognised the need for wholesale change rather than incremental improvement in pack formats such as aseptic beverage cartons.

“This award which follows recent success in the Deutsche Verpackungsinstitut’s German Packaging Awards, serves as further confirmation that ReZorce is a much-needed product with a bright future. We are 100 % focussed on translating these award achievements into on-shelf success, as ReZorce looks to finally bring a truly sustainable solution to the aseptic carton industry and beyond.”

Grupo Jumex and AriZona Beverages Company, both leading brands in the beverage industry, announced the launch of Jumex Hard^®, a malt-based ‘Hard Nectar’ inspired by consumers’ growing trend of mixing Jumex^® fruit nectars with alcohol.

This launch represents a significant milestone as Grupo Jumex ventures into the alcoholic beverage category, expanding its product portfolio into new markets that align with the evolving preferences of its consumers. By branching into this new segment, Grupo Jumex stays true to its mission of offering innovative products to satisfy emerging moments of consumption.

Jumex Hard^® will be manufactured and distributed in the U.S. in collaboration with AriZona Beverages Company through its affiliates and distributor network. It will be available in four initial offerings using some of the Grupo Jumex most beloved fruits and fruit combinations: Mango, Guava, Strawberry, and Pineapple-Coconut. These have long been popular in Jumex® nectars line and bring the brand’s signature natural taste and authenticity into an exciting new category – allowing consumers to enjoy a refreshing twist on a familiar favorite.

“This launch reflects our commitment to offering products that combine fruits, authenticity, and the best quality, staying true to our brand’s heritage and values,” said Salvi Folch, CEO of Grupo Jumex. “We are thrilled to expand our partnership with AriZona Beverages Company and introduce an innovation like Jumex Hard^® to the market.”

Abid Rizvi, CEO of AriZona Beverages Company, expressed his excitement about the new product: “Our collaboration with Grupo Jumex has been incredibly productive over many years, and as AriZona expands further into the alcohol category, with successful launches of Arnold Palmer Spiked and AriZona Hard, we are excited to introduce Jumex Hard^®. This product combines the best of both brands – Grupo Jumex’s expertise in fruit and AriZona Beverages’ experience in the U.S. beverage market – to create something truly unique for consumers.”

Döhler, a global producer, marketer and provider of technology-driven natural ingredients, ingredient systems and integrated solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Nukoko, the innovative company behind the world’s first cocoa-free ‘bean-to-bar’ chocolate. Together, Döhler and Nukoko will scale up the production of Nukoko’s patent-pending chocolate alternative, made from fava beans, in response to the growing challenges facing the global cocoa supply chain. With this partnership, Nukoko aims to revolutionise the chocolate industry with a sustainable, low-emission alternative.

This partnership will enable both companies to scale Nukoko’s innovative fermentation process to an industrial level by 2025. Nukoko’s unique process transforms fava beans into a sustainable chocolate alternative, addressing critical issues in the chocolate industry, including rising cocoa prices, environmental impact and socio-economic concerns surrounding cocoa production.

The collaboration between Döhler and Nukoko marks a major milestone in the evolution of chocolate manufacturing. Nukoko’s cocoa-free chocolate is made possible through its patent-pending fermentation technology, which mimics traditional cocoa fermentation to create chocolate’s characteristic flavours from fava beans. This breakthrough offers a sustainable alternative to conventional chocolate, reducing carbon emissions by up to 90 % compared to traditional cocoa-based products.

As the global cocoa industry faces unprecedented challenges—cocoa prices surged by 89 % in 2023 alone, driven by climate change and declining yields—Nukoko’s cocoa-free solution offers a viable and eco-friendly alternative. Cocoa production has long been associated with deforestation, child labour and high carbon emissions, ranking among the top five food sources contributing to CO2 emissions. Nukoko’s fava bean-based chocolate eliminates these issues by using a domestically grown, nitrogen-fixing crop that promotes soil health and reduces the need for fertilisers.

In addition to its environmental benefits, Nukoko’s chocolate alternative boasts 40 % less sugar and higher levels of protein, fiber, and antioxidants, offering a healthier choice for consumers without compromising on taste.

With the support of Döhler’s expertise in fermentation scale-up and ingredient systems, Nukoko will transition from pilot-scale production to full industrial-scale batches by 2025. This process will involve producing in 10,000-litre fermentation batches, significantly increasing output while maintaining high efficiency.

Döhler’s deep knowledge in regulatory processes and food safety will also be instrumental as Nukoko approaches its market launch.

High temperatures in São Paulo state in early October reinforced producers’ concerns, since this scenario can affect both fruits that are on the trees (from the current season, 2023/24) and the production of the next crop (2024/25), especially non-irrigated areas. Therefore, in mid-October, citrus growers were waiting for the rainfall in major producing regions.

So far, the biggest challenge for the current season (2023/24) has been the fact that fruits have wilted, which affects directly the quality, according to players surveyed by Cepea. In normal conditions, this quality loss would press quotations down; however, due to the limited supply this season, prices remain firm.

As for the 2024/25 crop, scenarios are distinct between irrigated and non-irrigated areas. In irrigated regions in São Paulo state, the fruit development is more advanced, but producers were still concerned with high temperatures.

On the other hand, most trees in non-irrigated areas have not blossomed yet. Thus, the return of rains is essential to mitigate the lack of soil humidity and encourage the blossoming.

All oranges 15.0 million boxes

The 2024-2025 Florida all orange forecast released by the USDA Agricultural Statistics Board is 15.0 million boxes, down 16 percent from last season’s final production. The total includes 6.00 million boxes of non-Valencia oranges (early, mid-season, and Navel varieties) and 9.00 million boxes of Valencia oranges. The Navel orange forecast, at 190,000 boxes, accounts for 3 percent of the non-Valencia total.

The estimated number of bearing trees for all oranges is 30.3 million. Trees planted in 2021 and earlier are considered bearing for this season. Field work for the latest Commercial Citrus Inventory was completed in June 2024. Attrition rates were applied to the results to determine the number of bearing trees used to weigh and expand objective count data in the forecast model.

An 8-year regression was used for comparison purposes. All references to “average”, “minimum”, and “maximum” refer to the previous 10 seasons, excluding the 2017-2018 season, which was affected by Hurricane Irma, and the 2022-2023 season, which was affected by Hurricanes Ian and Nicole. Average fruit per tree includes both regular bloom and the first late bloom …

Please download the full citrus crop production forecast: www.nass.usda.gov

VOG Products guarantees certified organic apple products year-round thanks to its unique regional supply chain. The organic raw materials come directly from the producer organisation’s members, among which are some of the largest organic apple organisations in Europe.

Sustainable origin and processing

Established in 1967 by apple farmers, today VOG Products – the fruit processing company from South Tyrol (northern Italy) – is a key partner of the international food and beverage industry – especially in the organic sector. The raw material is exclusively procured from the Trentino-South Tyrol region, which ensures sustainable, regional processing.

Year-round availability and strict control

Alongside continuous product availability, VOG Products offers seamless traceability and strict quality controls. Coupled with the highest certification standards, these measures safeguard customer trust around the globe.

Direct procurement creates trust

“We procure organic raw material directly from our members – two producer organisations and 17 fruit cooperatives – to ensure maximum reliability in terms of the origin, traceability and identity of our products,” stated Christoph Tappeiner, CEO of VOG Products.

Diversity and quality in the organic range

The organic portfolio of VOG Products has constantly expanded. The company supplies high-quality products with the seal of the Bioland and Demeter organic farming associations and also has Bio Suisse and Naturland certifications. The guidelines of these associations go above and beyond those of the EU regulation and include specifications for social sustainability.

VOG Products processes between 300,000 and 400,000 tonnes of fruit every year – pears, apricots, peaches, kiwis and cherries in addition to apples. The raw material in certified organic quality is also available monovarietal in order to fulfil customer requirements.

www.vog-products.it/en/

According to a recent industry analysis conducted by Future Market Insights, Inc., a leading market research and competitive intelligence provider, global hydration boosters market is projected to grow significantly, with an estimated valuation of USD 8.8 billion in 2024 and a forecasted rise to USD 19.5 billion by 2034, driven by a CAGR of 8.3 % over the period. This growth is fueled by changing consumer preferences, a focus on health-conscious products, and innovative marketing strategies, such as influencer partnerships and social media campaigns.

Key industry trends include the increasing popularity of calorie- and sugar-free hydration solutions, particularly flavoured options like apple, citrus, and watermelon, which enhance both taste and health benefits. The market is also benefiting from the demand for convenient, portable product formats, such as powdered solutions, liquid concentrates, and single-serving packets, which cater to busy consumers and athletes.

“Analyse the projected growth of the global hydration boosters market, focusing on the impact of innovative product development, changing consumer preferences, and the increasing demand for sugar-free and calorie-free options on the market’s CAGR of 8.3 % over the 2024-2034 period.”- says Nandini Roy Choudhury, Client Partner at Future Market Insights.

The sector is evolving with the introduction of multifunctional hydration products that support energy boosts, immune health, and skin wellness, incorporating ingredients like collagen, caffeine, and vitamins. The rising consumer interest in holistic wellness is driving the popularity of these products.

As global temperatures rise and active lifestyles become more common, the need for effective hydration solutions is growing, particularly in regions like the U.S., Germany, and India. In the U.S., for example, the market is expected to reach USD 3.4 billion by 2034, driven by trends in fitness and preventive healthcare. Germany is also seeing increased demand for hydration products, particularly among its elderly population.

Competition outlook

The global business landscape of hydration relief products revolves around the rising consumer appetite, the trend of preventive healthcare, and product innovation. Attractive packaging, the infusion of natural healthy ingredients, and the widespread distribution network attract companies to increase their market share.

These strategies are not only helping the companies to increase their revenue but also increasing their consumer base and brand attraction among consumers. Key companies in the global industry are narrowing down their product strategy by including clean-label solutions in their portfolio to attract health-conscious consumers. These companies emphasise sustainability and infuse unique ingredient formulations into their products.

These marketing strategies and product innovations help the key players to increase their sales across the globe. Increasing investment in research and development and widespread online distribution attract manufacturers and brands to increase their sales in the global industry. Companies are coming up with different solutions for different applications to gain consumer attraction.

For instance

• In October 2023 BODYARMOR Sports Nutrition company launched the “Bodyarmor Flash I.V.” in powder and bar form in the rapid rehydration category. According to the company, this product with added minerals and vitamins will help the consumers to stay hydrated.
• In April 2024, Evocus company launched the four popular flavours of the products to keep them competitive in the global business landscape.

Leading manufacturers

• MOONFREEZE FOODS PRIVATE LIMITED
• SEEverse
• HydroMate
• Liquid I.V.
• Espri Life
• Venture Pal
• Drip Drop Hydration Inc
• EVLUTION NUTRITION
• Adapted Nutrition
• Hydralyte
• Equalan Pharma
• OFFSPRING BEAUTY CO
• Lipoid-Kosmetik

These insights are based on a report on Hydration Boosters Market by Future Market Insights, Inc.

Parry Nutraceuticals has been issued with a European Union import licence for organic Spirulina – the first to be granted to an Indian company in nearly two years.

In October 2022, the European Commission delisted a number of Indian organic certification bodies after detecting traces of the EU-banned pesticide ethylene oxide in a shipment of organic sesame seeds from India. Among the organisations affected by this move was the sole control body in the world authorised to certify organic microalgae from India, putting an indefinite stop to imports of organic Spirulina into the EU from India.

Following the European Commission’s decision, Chennai-based Parry Nutraceuticals – which produces only Spirulina that is certified organic – began the search for a Europe-based body willing to develop the capacity to certify organic Spirulina from India. Having successfully identified a recognised, credible European partner, and after more than a year of hard work behind the scenes, Parry Nutraceuticals is in a position to resume exports to the EU with immediate effect.

Baburaj Lakshmi Kanthan, Parry Nutraceutical’s Head of Business, welcomed the news. “It was a long process – much longer than we’d hoped for – but we are delighted to be back in the EU,” he said. “We thank our customers for their loyalty and patience during this delay and we look forward to working with them again.”

During its absence from the EU in the past two years, Parry Nutraceuticals has invested considerably in research and development and will re-enter the European market with new, improved versions of its organic Spirulina powders and tablets. These are manufactured using the innovative Tuymai filtration process. This preserves Spirulina’s cell structure, in turn enhancing its purity and organoleptic profile, and increasing the levels of phycocyanin in the powder. Phycocyanin is a powerful bioactive associated with health benefits including muscle recovery and immunity.

Rajendran Lingan, Head of Quality Assurance at Parry Nutraceuticals, commented: “We have been very busy during our temporary absence from the EU market, and we are excited to offer the latest version of our superior quality Spirulina to our European customers. We are one of only two Spirulina producers worldwide with two separate Organic Certifications. In addition to EU Organic status, we also now hold certification from the even more stringent Naturland, which is a gold-standard European scheme demonstrating that we are compliant with the most exacting ecological and social sustainability standards. We are also the only microalgae producer with USP verification – and our contaminant levels are three to five times lower than current EU regulatory requirements.”

Parry Nutraceuticals supplies Spirulina in a range of forms, including granules, which are a flexible option for a variety of applications such as food and beverage, food supplements, and cosmetics and personal care. The company is also a leading manufacturer of white-label Spirulina tablets, which are supplied ready for health and wellness companies to package, brand and sell as their own supplements. Parry Nutraceuticals’ sales to the US and Asia were unaffected by the EU’s decision and have continued to perform strongly during its absence from the European market.

Sofia Hoffmann de Mendonça, European Business Development Manager for Parry Nutraceuticals, said: “The absence of our organic Spirulina from the European market has been frustrating not only for the Parry team but also for our customers and distributors. They previously had access to organic Spirulina products with the best quality-price ratio in Europe but found themselves left with no comparable alternative. We are delighted that we can now return to the EU market to serve our current customers – and new ones – and once again deliver the great-quality, unique, and competitively priced Spirulina that we are well known for.”

Parry Nutraceutical’s Spirulina is produced in a natural, rural environment in the south of India, in compliance with the strictest certifications. The company has also invested extensively in research to support health claims specific and exclusive to its own Spirulina, offering an added-value selling proposition in the global market.

Caliwater^™, the plant-based hydration innovator founded by celebrity mom Vanessa Hudgens, launches Watermelon and Wild Prickly Pear Kids Pouches at Albertsons in the US.

Caliwater^™ announced the launch of its signature Kids Pouches, featuring Watermelon and Wild Prickly Pear flavours, at Albertsons Company stores in the US – just in time for the back-to-school season.

Caliwater^™ offers a functional cactus water derived from the prickly pear fruit, containing half the sugar and calories of coconut water. Not only does it taste delicious, but it also supports hydration, immunity, and digestion, making it an ideal choice for kids. The brand is backed by celebrity moms Roselyn Sanchez, Brooke Burke, Nikki Reed, and founder Vanessa Hudgens.

Since its debut in January 2022, Caliwater^™ has seen remarkable growth as the ultimate super hydration solution. The launch of Caliwater^™ Kids Pouches in Albertsons aims to promote healthy, eco-friendly options for families. The new pouches come in vibrant 6-packs with spill-proof 4.2 oz designs, perfect for on-the-go hydration at USD 6.99 per carton.

Caliwater^™Kids pouches provide a delicious option that kids love, addressing the common challenge parents face in keeping their little ones hydrated throughout the day – without the excessive sugar found in leading juice boxes.

Caliwater^™ Kids Pouches not only taste great, but they also provide a range of health benefits thanks to the prickly pear cactus. Rich in antioxidants and naturally occurring electrolytes, they support hydration, immunity, and digestion. With five electrolytes, including potassium, magnesium, and sodium, Caliwater helps with rapid hydration and muscle recovery. It also contains dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes overall well-being, making it a great choice for the entire family.

Two iconic Australian businesses with household brands that have been in the pantries of Australian families for decades are merging, together with the powdered milk business of a third Australian founded business Nature One Dairy to create a market leading Australian food and beverage company with significant scale.

Former Asahi Beverages Group CEO and current SPC Director Robert Iervasi has been appointed the Managing Director of the merged business, which will own and operate three business divisions, namely SPC, The Original Juice Co. and Nature One Dairy.

SPC is an iconic Australian brand and is the largest producer of fruit, tomato, baked beans and spaghetti processing, packaging, and canning in Australia. It holds some of Australia’s most recognisable household food brands such as SPC, Ardmona, Goulburn Valley, ProVital, Pomlife, the Good Meal Co, and Street Eats – feeding Australian families for more than 100 years.

The Original Juice Company is a well-known Australian food processing company specialising in chilled fruit and vegetable juices. Founded in 1988, it has maintained a commitment to sourcing local fruit and producing fresh juice daily for over 30 years. Using a mix of conventional and custom-developed equipment, OJC manufactures high-quality juices, fibres, infused fruits, and fruit waters for both domestic and international markets.

Nature One Dairy is a Singapore registered, Australian-founded dairy company that manufactures and sells premium infant formula, nutritional formula and milk powder products. With an established sales and marketing footprint in Australia, China and other Asia Pacific markets, products are sold under the Nature One Dairy brand. The Nature One Dairy international market presence provides a platform for further inorganic growth for the combined business through product diversification and access to the Asian distribution market.

Together the three businesses create a substantial Australian based and owned global food and beverage companies that will continue to support Australian producers and execute on a global growth strategy.

The 2024/25 orange crushing was moving at a good pace at juice processing companies in São Paulo state at the end of September. According to players, the pear orange has been the most processed variety; however, the harvesting pace has been progressing, and the participation of late fruits (such as valencia and natal) has been increasing.

The harvesting is more advanced due to the higher share of fruits from the first blossoming. Data from Fundecitrus (Citrus Defense Fund) indicate that 64 % of oranges produced in this season account for the first blossoming, higher than the last four crops (36 % of the fruits, at most). Thus, the crushing pace is likely to reduce earlier this year – the second blossoming considers fruits that will be harvested from October on, according to Fundecitrus.

In addition to that, greening (HLB – Huanglongbing), above-average temperatures and the dry weather also accelerate the harvesting. As for greening, one of the symptoms of the disease is the early fruit drop, and producers may harvest in advance to avoid losses. Weather conditions, in turn, accelerate the ripening and may result in early fruit drop.

The share of late fruits in processing activities is likely to be higher in October, but the amount of pear oranges allocated to juice production can still be relevant.

Stocks

Cepea calculations, based on data released by CitrusBR on Sept. 19, indicate that Brazilian orange juice stocks may not recover during the current crop (2024/25), ending this season technically zero. Not even the forecast of improvement in industrial yield (due to below-average rainfall) and limited exports will be enough to compensate for the decrease in the volume of fruit processed.

According to CitrusBR, the stocked quantity of the commodity was 116.7 thousand tons at the end of 2023/24 crop (on June 30, 2024), being 37.7 % higher than that on the same period last year, but the third lowest in history (the series has started in 1988/89).

Having joined Tetra Pak more than 24 years ago, Sara has delivered countless innovations across solutions development, programme management, and equipment engineering for the company and its food and beverage customers. Her mandate in the new role is to develop and deliver innovative solutions with the highest value for customers, collaborate across the business to accelerate their deployment, and fast-track the work to realise the company’s ambition to deliver the world’s most sustainable paper-based food and beverage package¹.

She is based in Lausanne, Switzerland, and is a member of the Tetra Pak Executive Leadership Team, reporting to Adolfo Orive, President & CEO.

Holding a Master’s Degree in Industrial Design from the University of Florence and a Post-graduation Master’s in Technology and Innovation Management from the University of Bologna, Sara joined Tetra Pak in 2001 as an industrial designer for carton packaging opening systems. Her technical, relational and collaborative skills led her to become Managing Director for Tetra Pak Packaging Solutions S.p.A. in Modena, Italy, a research and development centre, and Vice President of Programme Management in D&T.

Sara De Simoni, Executive Vice President Development & Technology (D&T) at Tetra Pak, comments: “Tetra Pak D&T brings together an exceptionally talented team of designers, of doers, of people who make things happen. I am proud to be leading them in our journey to shape the future of food packaging, and I see this as an opportunity to drive forward our pursuit of innovation, design excellence and groundbreaking sustainable solutions. We will continue to focus on delivering those solutions for our customers, who are at the centre of everything we do.”

¹A carton package made of renewable or recycled materials, which are responsibly sourced, therefore helping protect and restore our planet’s climate, resources and biodiversity; contributing towards low carbon production and distribution; convenient and safe, therefore helping to enable a resilient food system; fully recyclable.

Ziemann Holvrieka and partners receive project funding

How can production systems in the food industry be made more efficient? Automation is often the only solution. Ziemann Holvrieka is now contributing its engineering know-how to the virtASI project. Its goal is to make digitalisation of process engineering faster and simpler. The Bavarian Research Foundation is providing support with a grant of some 703,000 Euros.

Plant engineers and plant operators in the food industry are facing steadily rising prices for raw materials and energy. They also have to deal with increasing complexity and shortages of skilled labor. Moreover, variable market demands are creating problems for producers by requiring greater product variety and reducing lifecycles. The remedy for these problems is automation, because it ensures flexibility and efficiency. Automation also accelerates the development and commissioning of production facilities.

In order to promote faster and simpler digitalisation, Ziemann Holvrieka is participating in a project led by the Chair of Brewing and Beverage Technology at the Technical University of Munich. The project, known by its German abbreviation virtASI (virtual facility planning, simulation and commissioning), is being supported by a grant of approximately 703,000 Euros from the Bavarian Research Foundation. “The purpose is to facilitate automated, model-assisted, virtual engineering in the food industry 4.0 based on modular planning data,” says Tobias Becher, Head of Technology, Research and Development at Ziemann Holvrieka. “Our solution, ‘Module Type Packages’ (MTP), is making a substantial contribution to establishing a standard for automation.” The other participants in the project are the simulation service provider SimPlan from Munich and the technology company Gimbio from Freising.

BrauBeviale has put together a complete package for its new edition which will take place from 26 to 28 November 2024 in Nuremberg. In addition to an exhibitor portfolio with brewery, beverage, as well as wine sector technology, the conference programme will once again provide a wealth of inspiration.

The forums in Halls 1 and 9 will become the stages for experts from research and industry. The topics of raw materials & marketing, as well as technology & packaging, will be highlighted there. Visitors can also take in the special areas on Start-ups & Young Talents, Logistics and Wine & Spirits. A special place at the show is the dedicated Craft Drinks Area, which is the destination par excellence for all craft brewers. The well-known address in Hall 6 is also back on the programme for home and hobby brewers. The latest status of the programme, with all confirmed topics and speakers, will be available from the end of August at www.braubeviale.com.

Hall 1 offers everything related to raw materials & marketing

In keeping with the exhibitor portfolio in Hall 1 it has become a tradition that the forum located there should answer important questions on raw material topics. For example, new climate-resilient barley varieties or the challenges facing malt production in the light of climate change.

Up-dated information on new hop varieties, which are proving to be very promising in this context, points in a similar direction. Of course, hop cultivation will also be discussed in the broader scenario of environmental protection and economic efficiency, as will future scenarios for yeast cultivation by fermentation specialists. These raw material topics will be offered on 26 and 28 November 2024.

How much marketing and how much technology does it take for a beer to become a success in the market? The programme of presentations does not take a specific position on this considering all the fine adjustments needed in order to ultimately secure a place for beer, with or without alcohol, in consumers’ shopping baskets and guarantee the profitability of breweries. Some examples from the marketing focus of the conference programme, e.g: “New, different, successful: about innovative thinking. Revitalising beer!” or “Key points to learn: What makes beverage innovation successful.” In addition, best practice examples from cult brands and newcomers will provide new ideas for one’s own positioning. All these marketing impulses and more will be presented on 27 November 2024 in the Forum in Hall 1.

Hall 9 with a comprehensive programme based on technology and packaging

Under the auspices of the Verband Private Brauereien Bayern e.V., the conceptual sponsor of the exhibition, this year’s BrauBeviale will offer a programme tailored to current brewery topics as part of the technology programme in Hall 9. On Tuesday, 26 November 2024, the focus will be on “Energy efficiency for SMEs”. Topics that will be rolled out here include sustainability in new building projects, energy management systems and the use of heat pumps. There will also be an overview of integrated energy concepts for SMEs. On Thursday, 28 November 2024, the association is planning a broad information programme on the topic of “Non-alcoholic beers”. Firstly, the role of yeast in the production of non-alcoholic beers and the product development of a non-alcoholic beer in practice will be highlighted. By looking at examples of best practice, from European Beer Star winners, brewers will be given a broad overview and the opportunity to discuss the processes employed in this beer segment with experts.

Beverage manufacturers interested in current packaging issues will be well served on Wednesday, 27 November 2024, also in Hall 9. One example of “Glass – metal – composites? The packaging preferences of young consumers’.

The programme will of course also address the implementation of the PPWR in individual markets at this point: “The EU has decided – what now? The PPWR for beverages in Europe.” The main aim here will be to provide an assessment of the implications and solutions in various markets. Marketing specialists should therefore plan their visit to BrauBeviale on Wednesday in particular, as this is when they will also be able to take in the key areas of marketing and packaging in the lecture programme.

Special areas – which have now become standard

Wine@BrauBeviale are important keywords that are relevant to all wine producers: In Hall 4A, BrauBeviale has integrated a platform for winegrowers. A varied programme will be offered here on all three days of the show with a focus on cellar technology/sustainability/quality assurance as well as wine marketing/distribution/operations management and digital developments.

To this end, the organisation team relies on the expert support from important and relevant players in the wine sector, such as the German Winegrowers’ Association, the LWG, the Geisenheim University of Applied Sciences and the HBLA Klosterneuburg, Austria. In addition, the programme is also dedicated to the next generation: An innovations-forge for young winemakers: with this approach, concepts for the next generation will be urgently debated, since they are already waiting in the wings.

Following the successful launch in 2023, there will once again be a LOGISTICS LOUNGE at BrauBeviale this year. YONTEX as organiser, along with pool operator LOGIPACK as the organiser and host of the special themed area, are thus taking account the increasing importance of logistics in the entire beverage industry.

On an area twice as large as last year’s, the new motto is “The efficiency of reusable logistics”. The location of the lounge has been moved further into the centre of the show and an additional area has been added, where a wide range of digital solutions, particularly for the digitalisation of logistics processes, will be presented directly adjacent to the LOGISTIK LOUNGE. The concept includes the participation of as many different and complementary partners from the logistics and digitalisation sector as possible.

The package offered by the special areas will once again be rounded off with the Craft Drinks Area, where visitors can experience new concepts in professional tastings, exchange ideas and discuss with like-minded people. Of course, the presentation of the winning beer from the Maisel & Friends hobby brewing competition will again take place there. The winner has already been chosen – his beer will be brewed soon!

While home and hobby brewers tend to follow events in the brewing industry from the sidelines, for many manufacturers and machine producers, the issue of young talent is a pressing one. The recruitment of young people, whether in the beverage production scene or among machine manufacturers, remains highly topical. This is why BrauBeviale has again integrated a Start-up Area as well as a Young Talents Camp into the 2024 edition. This year, these two special areas will be located adjacent to each other and share a forum in Hall 6, once again linking the efforts and offers for young talent and creating a clear address as part of the overall exhibition programme.

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) has announced an investment in Pipeline Organics, a climate tech startup hoping to revolutionise the generation of clean and renewable energy.

Pipeline Organics’ technology uses advanced chemistry and manufacturing processes to convert sugar-rich wastewater into a continuous supply of renewable electricity.

This breakthrough technology has the potential to power essential processes across CCEP’s sites, from lighting to powering production lines.

CCEP aims to scale this innovative technology by providing Pipeline Organics with access to its sites where the technology can be trialled, using the sugar-rich wastewater that is created as a by-product of drinks manufacturing.

CCEP has been steadily progressing towards its renewable electricity goals, with renewable electricity already used in 78% of its operations in 2023. By investing in breakthrough solutions like Pipeline Organics, CCEP aims to accelerate the adoption of clean energy technologies and drive positive change in the industry.

The Supervisory Board of Symrise AG has appointed Walter Ribeiro to the Executive Board with effect from September 15, 2024. Ribeiro will take over the management of the Taste, Nutrition & Health (TN&H) segment, which was previously headed by CEO Dr. Jean-Yves Parisot. At the same time, Dr. Jörn Andreas steps down as a member of the Executive Board of Symrise AG as of September 30, 2024 to pursue his professional career outside Symrise. Until a successor is decided, Dr. Parisot will temporarily lead the Scent & Care (S&C) segment, for which Dr. Andreas was previously responsible.

Michael König, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Symrise AG: “With Walter Ribeiro, another internationally experienced manager from within the company’s own ranks has been appointed to the Executive Board. As global head of our Food & Beverage division, Walter Ribeiro has played a significant role in Symrise’s successful transformation into a leading provider in the field of nutrition in recent years. With him, the TN&H segment will be in the very best hands.”

At the same time, Dr. Jörn Andreas has decided to leave Symrise on his own request to continue his career outside the company. With his departure, Dr. Jean-Yves Parisot will temporarily take over the management of the Scent & Care segment. The search for a successor for the management of the segment has already been initiated.

Ribeiro (53) comes from Brazil and has lived with his family in Holzminden, the headquarters of Symrise AG, for many years. He has spent almost his entire professional career at Symrise in various management positions in Germany and abroad, including cross-segment management positions. Most recently, Ribeiro was responsible for the global Food & Beverage division in the Taste, Nutrition & Health segment.

Arla Foods Ingredients has launched a new campaign to inspire dairy manufacturers to create innovative high-protein products.

Over four in ten consumers globally say protein is the most important ingredient.¹ However, conversations around the vital nutrient are changing, with health-focused shoppers increasingly focusing not just on how much protein they consume, but also its nutritional quality. Manufacturers of high-protein products can also face challenges around differentiation, processing, taste and texture.

The ‘Go High in Protein’ campaign showcases the Arla Foods Ingredients Nutrilac^® ProteinBoost range of patented microparticulated whey proteins, which are rich in all the essential amino acids. It demonstrates how they can be used to overcome technical challenges and create high-protein dairy products with appealing taste and texture.

At the heart of the campaign is a new virtual protein seminar, featuring presentations from expert speakers and a ‘Test your protein knowledge’ quiz.

Visitors can also explore five concepts featuring Nutrilac® ProteinBoost. They include two new recipes – an ambient spoonable yoghurt, and an ambient drinking yoghurt which recently won a World Dairy Innovation award for best manufacturing/technology innovation. They demonstrate the potential for high-protein dairy products that do not require refrigeration, creating opportunities for convenience, long shelf life and easier transportation.

The three other recipe concepts are a 10 % protein ice cream, a high-protein non-fat drinking yoghurt with fruit, and a 12 % protein spoonable yoghurt.

Claus Bukbjerg Andersen, Senior Category Manager at Arla Foods Ingredients, said: The high-protein trend is as powerful as ever, but it’s evolving. Consumers now want high-quality, complete proteins – and they want them in products with masses of appeal. Our aim is to make it as easy as possible for manufacturers to meet these dual needs. The ‘Go High in Protein’ demonstrates how our Nutrilac^® ProteinBoost solutions can help you overcome technical challenges and create high-protein dairy products that stand out in an increasingly crowded market.”

To sign up for the virtual protein seminar, visit https://bit.ly/47kR939

¹Innova Market Insights, Trend Survey, 2024

“That was the kind of FACHPACK we know and love!” – That was the general consensus among exhibitors and visitors at FACHPACK 2024, which has just closed following a highly successful three-day event. Thirty-seven thousand trade visitors, one third from outside Germany, learned about the latest trends and innovations at the stands run by the 1,455 exhibitors, and discussed pressing packaging issues with the experts. The key theme of “Transition In Packaging” was strongly in evidence in all the exhibition halls and in the supporting programme. “The great response speaks for itself: Despite the changes happening in the packaging industry and the many challenges it is facing, the European packaging sector at FACHPACK proved extremely innovative, solution-oriented and confident,” says Heike Slotta, Executive Director Exhibitions at NürnbergMesse, summing up the event. In 2025, FACHPACK will be held at the Exhibition Centre Nuremberg together with POWTECH TECHNOPHARM.

“Once again, FACHPACK has shown itself to be a clear guide and driving force for the packaging industry in Europe,” says Slotta, summing up the mood at FACHPACK 2024. “And that’s what we need! The packaging sector is in a state of transition. New regulations have to be implemented, and high expectations in terms of sustainability and the circular economy need to be met. At the same time, the industry faces challenges brought about by demographic change. And then there are other themes relating to the energy supply system, supply chains, digitalization and artificial intelligence. Here in Nuremberg we’ve just had three days of experiencing first-hand just how innovative, solution-focused and optimistic the industry is in dealing with these challenges and helping to structure the transition. The FACHPACK motto ‘We create the future’ once again sums it up nicely.”

Visitors from throughout Europe

FACHPACK offered an extensive range of solutions and innovations in the areas of packaging, packaging systems and packaging processes. Most visitors to FACHPACK travelled to the Exhibition Centre from other countries in Europe. After Germany, the top ten countries were Austria, Switzerland, Italy, the Czech Republic, Poland, the Netherlands, France, Spain, Turkey and Hungary. The international contingent made up 33 percent of the total.

Industry professionals: Top decision-makers onsite

The results of a visitor survey by an independent institute confirmed that 96 percent of the industry professionals were happy with the products and services in the exhibition halls. Some 90 percent of the trade visitors said they were involved in making the purchasing and procurement decisions in their respective businesses. Two thirds of them hold management positions. The visitors came mainly from the food and feed, pharmaceutical and medical, chemical, cosmetics, retail, automotive, electrical and electronic, non-food, logistics and packaging industries.

Women4Packaging network off to a successful start

The Women4Packaging networking event was very well received, with 150 female industry players seizing the unique opportunity on the first day of the trade fair to network onsite and interact on current themes and trends in the packaging sector. The keynote by Vera Strauch, founder of the Female Leadership Academy and expert in Feminist Leadership, provided stimulating ideas. This initial gathering received a thoroughly positive response, and the Women4Packaging network will be continued and expanded accordingly, to ensure a focus on women in the packaging industry in the future. Regular meetings are planned. Phuong Anh Do, Deputy Director FACHPACK, is overwhelmed by the response to the new industry platform: “There are many qualified women in the packaging industry. That’s why we’re particularly pleased to have created a trail-blazing network for women at FACHPACK in the form of Women4Packaging, which offers female players in the industry an opportunity for constructive interaction with like-minded colleagues and genuine added value.”

German Packaging Award and Gold Awards presented

On the first day of FACHPACK, the German Packaging Institute (dvi) announced the winners of the Gold Awards for this year’s German Packaging Award. The five best innovations for 2024 came from the categories of Digitalization, Functionality & Convenience, Sustainability and Packaging Machines. A total of 41 innovative solutions that were recognized with the German Packaging Award in August were celebrated.

New: Packaging Valley organizes Packaging Machinery Forum in collaboration with FACHPACK in 2025

In early summer 2025, Packaging Valley and FACHPACK will join forces for the new Packaging Machinery Forum format. This leading forum for packaging machine construction will offer exclusive insights into the future of the sector. It will focus on topics of interest to customers of the packaging machine construction industry. Technological themes such as digitalization will be given the same prominence as questions of business models, market developments, and how to ensure future-proof production. Participants can also look forward to customized sessions run by top-level experts to deal with individual questions. The forum also offers an ideal platform for networking, which enables direct connections to decision-makers and leading thinkers in the sector. More information will follow soon.

Save the date: The next FACHPACK will take place together with POWTECH TECHNOPHARM at the Exhibition Centre Nuremberg from 23 to 25 September 2025.

Almost 9 in 10 (89 %) parents across the UK are concerned that their children aren’t getting enough vitamins and minerals in their everyday diets, according to a new study.

The study, which surveyed parents across Great Britain, suggests the rising cost of living is partly to blame, with over 1 in 3 (38 %) saying food and drink rich in vitamins and minerals can be expensive to buy. The survey also revealed almost half (47 %) of British parents have no clear idea what foods or drinks their children are consuming at school – making it difficult to ensure they are maintaining a healthy, balanced diet.

However, the study also revealed a lack of awareness among parents about the levels of essential vitamins and minerals in everyday staples such as fruit juice – which are inexpensive and easy to consume as part of children’s daily routine.

Fruit juice is an easy, affordable way for children to get a head start on key nutrients*: for example, a standard 150 ml glass of orange juice provides more than 90 % of the recommended vitamin C intake. A recent study published in the journal, Nutrition Research Reviews, found that 100 % fruit juice currently provides over a quarter (26 %) of the vitamin C intake for children across the UK, with the average child consuming just two to three small glasses a week.

While most Brits recognise that orange and other fruit juices are a good source of vitamin C – essential for a healthy immune system, skin health, and helping to increase iron absorption – the research revealed that many parents are unaware of the added health benefits provided by fruit juice which contains vitamins, minerals and plant bioactives.

For example, 9 in ten parents are unaware that orange juice contains folate – proven to support normal immune health and helping to reduce tiredness and fatigue. The majority of UK parents (87 %) also don’t know that orange juice contains potassium, a mineral which supports normal muscle function – helping children to stay fit and active.

The study revealed the small amount of calories in a typical small glass of fruit juice – just 20-40 kcal per day or 1-2 % of a child’s average daily calorie intake. Almost half (46 %) of parents across the UK mistakenly think fruit juice contains added sugar, despite the fact that 100 % fruit juice never contains added sugars, colours or preservatives and cannot be diluted with water under UK and European law.

Leading nutritionist and dietitian, Dr Carrie Ruxton, said: “Children’s health remains a top priority for parents across the country. However, with continuing financial pressures and uncertainty around kids’ food consumption at school, parents are finding it hard to keep track of what their children are eating and encourage healthier food choices.

“Although promoting and maintaining the health of your kids may feel like stressful at times, there are easy, affordable ways to ensure your children are fighting fit, and armed with all the vitamins and minerals they need. A simple first step is ensuring your kids have a daily glass of orange juice, which not only provides up 90% of the vitamin C recommendation per day** but is packed with a wide range of nutrients and antioxidants to support immunity, energy levels and active lives.”

Carrie Ruxton’s top five easy, quick and affordable ways to keep children healthy are:

1. Drinking Daily Juice: Giving children a daily glass of 100 % orange juice with breakfast will naturally increase their intakes of vitamin C, folate and potassium to support normal immune health and muscle function. It doesn’t matter whether you buy a carton of fruit juice or squeeze it at home – both are rich in vitamin C.
2. Fibre-tastic: Fibre is an essential nutrient to encourage the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and promote healthy digestion. An affordable way to weave this into your kids’ diets is to swap sugary breakfast cereals for wheat biscuits or bran flakes, or add peas, beans or sweetcorn to evening meals.
3. Taste the rainbow: Aim to give your kids five portions of fruit and vegetables every day. Try adding blended or grated veg into pasta sauces, or bananas to sweeten desserts. Buying frozen veggies and fruit is an affordable way to preserve key ingredients for longer.
4. Delicious Dairy: Yogurt drinks and desserts are often a good source of calcium and vitamin D for children, which are important for growth and maintaining strong bones. They are also relatively affordable when brought in multi-packs.
5. Get fishy: Giving children a portion of oily fish each week will provide inflammatory omega-3 fats to improve brain function, alongside key bone strengthening nutrients such as zinc and selenium. Tinned fish such as tuna is affordable, has a long shelf life, and is an easy after school meal served with pasta, sweetcorn and mayonnaise.

*Walton J & Kehoe L (2024) Current perspectives and challenges in the estimation of fruit juice consumption across the lifecycle in Europe – PubMed (nih.gov).
** Salar FJ et al. (2024) Comparison of vitamin C and flavanones between freshly squeezed orange juices and commercial 100% orange juices from four European countries – PubMed (nih.gov)

Tetra Pak has collaborated with a leading company in the European juices, nectars and soft drinks markets to launch the new Tetra Prisma^® Aseptic 300 Edge beverage carton. This innovative portion package stands out on the shelf, with its distinct look and ergonomic design catering to the preference of modern consumers for taller, slimmer packaging. Research¹ shows that, with buyers rethinking discretionary spending, a ‘less is more’ design approach is gaining in popularity, characterised by pared back simplicity. Designed for ease of use, the shape of the new paper-based carton package also makes it more comfortable to hold, particularly for smaller hands. Its wide opening ensures a steady flow for easy drinking, while its compact size makes it convenient for on-the-go consumption.

Product wastage is minimised by combining the slanted top of the Tetra Prisma^® Aseptic 300 Edge carton with a DreamCap^™ 26 Pro tethered closure. This helps to prevent litter too, as the cap stays attached to the package; therefore, it can be collected alongside the carton once consumers have enjoyed their drink and put the container in the correct bin for recycling.

In addition, the leading European juice brand opted for increasing the renewable share of material in the package to over 85 %, and this translated to reducing the carbon footprint of this carton by 76 %.² This is achieved by combining paperboard from forests certified to Forest Stewardship Council^™ (FSC^™) and other controlled sources with plant-based polymers, derived from responsibly sourced sugarcane. Its reduced climate impact is set to appeal to young consumers, who are more likely to make environmentally conscious purchasing decisions (as found in research from Harvard Business Review).³

The Tetra Prisma^® Aseptic 300 Edge is ideal for a wide range of on-the-go beverages, including dairy, juices and functional drinks. Available on the latest Tetra Pak^® A3/CompactFlex filling machine, as well as on existing lines through a simple, cost-efficient upgrade, it brings the packaging configurations⁴ on a single filling machine to five. This versatility enables a quick switching between different packaging sizes and different opening systems, optimising production efficiency⁵ and broadening the range of on-the-go offerings. The latter helps food and beverage (F&B) brands to select the package that best matches specific consumption needs, therefore, attracting an even wider audience.

When it comes to transportation, the taller and slimmer shape of the package means it is possible to fit around the same number of litres and up to 10 % more packages per pallet,⁶ meaning fewer shipments while delivering more product.

Francesco Faella, Vice President Business Sector Ambient, Tetra Pak, comments: “By collaborating with a leading European juice brand and launching the Tetra Prisma^® Aseptic 300 Edge, we are answering the industry’s call for added flexibility and stylish design options to help brands stand out on the shelf. Importantly, we are doing this while also addressing consumer preferences and expectations. Based on our recent global research⁷, environmental concerns remain high for 76 % of respondents, with over 60 % choosing products that have environmentally sound packaging in a bid to protect future generations and one fifth showing preference for containers made of renewable materials.”

¹Tetra Pak-WGSN Design Trend Forecast 2023-2024
²Source: Carbon Trust^™-verified Tetra Pak ‘Carton CO₂ Calculator’ model version 10 (valid from April 2024). Scope: cradle-to-grave measurement of a Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 300 Edge carton with plant-based packaging materials and additional materials (i.e. cap) compared to a standard Tetra Prisma^® Aseptic 300 Edge with fossil-based plastic. Geography: EU Industry data. For more information, visit carbontrust.com/tetrapak
³https://hbr.org/2023/09/research-consumers-sustainability-demands-are-rising
⁴The five packaging configurations include the following: Tetra Prisma^® Aseptic 200 Edge with straw; Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 200 Edge with DreamCap^™ 26 closure or DreamCap^™ 26 Pro tethered closure; Tetra Prisma^® Aseptic 250 Edge with straw; Tetra Prisma^® Aseptic 250 Edge with DreamCap^™ 26 closure or DreamCap^™ 26 Pro tethered closure; Tetra Prisma^® Aseptic 300 Edge with DreamCap^™ 26 closure or DreamCap^™ 26 Pro tethered closure.
⁵Addition of three formats in Quick Change, with Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 200 Edge and Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 250 Edge, hence improved flexibility and efficiency when compared with Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 330 Square.
⁶Compared with the Tetra Prisma^® Aseptic 330 package in EU pallet with WASF open ends.
⁷Tetra Pak’s latest Sustainable Packaging consumer research, run in 2023, comprised a total of 14,500 consumer interviews based on an online questionnaire in 29 markets: Germany, France, UK, Italy, Belgium, Denmark, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, South Africa, Egypt, China, India, Japan, Australia, Indonesia, Philippines, South Korea, Vietnam, Brazil, USA, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina.

Perricone Farms, a premium craft juice company with deep roots in California’s citrus industry, announced its acquisition of Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Company, an award-winning juice company based in Fort Pierce, Florida. The merger unites two of the highest quality and most trusted names in the juice industry, strengthens both brands, and enhances the ability to serve customers with excellence in quality and customer service in the US.

The combined company will be able to take advantage of bi-coastal production facilities, improve its delivery capabilities, expand product offerings, and leverage its additional scale to ensure juices reach customers with the same uncompromising quality they have come to know and love.

“We are excited to add Natalie’s to the Perricone Farms family. Natalie’s commitment to producing the highest quality products, combined with unmatched customer service, aligns with the core values we have been providing in the marketplace for years. Working together, we will be stronger and will be able to provide greater value to our customers,” said Bob Rovzar, CEO of Perricone Farms. “This exciting merger offers new opportunities for growth and expansion, including entrance into new markets, developing innovative products, and strengthening relationships with customers, suppliers, vendors, and partners. Together, Perricone Farms and Natalie’s are now better equipped to ensure the continued success and growth of both brands.”

Over the decades, Perricone Farms and Natalie’s Juices have become industry experts at procuring and producing the highest quality juices. By unifying these two entities, we strengthen our undisputed reputation for being the best premium juice provider in the food service and retail channel.

“The impressive growth that has driven the success behind the Natalie’s brand for the past 35 years has been built on the brand loyalty and relationships we have established with our customers and consumers. We are forever grateful for the opportunity to serve them with the nation’s best-tasting juice—not because it was our job, but because we loved doing it,” said Natalie’s CEO, Marygrace Sexton, who founded the award-winning juice company, named after her daughter, over 35 years ago.  “We are excited for the future and the opportunities this partnership will provide our cherished Natalie’s family. Natalie’s has been built to last and will be providing you with authentic juices on a world-wide scale for generations to come.”

With the foundations for both companies built on a shared vision and values that have existed for generations, the combined company will remain devoted to a legacy that has been rooted in tradition and a commitment to exceeding expectations in quality and customer service.

Citrus flavours are beloved for their refreshing zest, versatility, and ability to invigorate the senses. Consumers are drawn to them not only for their familiar taste but also for their perceived health benefits, with rising demand for natural citrus flavours driven by the clean-label trend.

Orange continues to be one of the most widely consumed citrus flavours in the world, yet despite its popularity, the global orange oil market is facing significant supply challenges due to factors such as crop shortages, poor fruit quality, and climate-related disruptions.

As demand for natural products continues to grow, driven by widespread use in food and beverages, cosmetics, and cleaning products, orange oil prices are expected to increase over the next 3-5 years.

In response these challenges, Flavorchem, a global flavour and ingredient supplier, developed taste mod™ orange, an innovative line of orange oil replacers, offering the zesty taste of citrus at a more affordable price.

“Our sweet orange oil replacers have been applied in easy-to-use flavour forms specifically designed for beverages,” says Niki Hernandez, Senior Manager Flavour Development. “Available in extract, emulsion, and spray dry forms, it comes in both TYPE and WONF versions and meets specific regulatory requirements.”

Flavorchem’s expertly crafted sweet orange oil replacers offer the bright, refreshing flavours your products require, while ensuring consistency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability that today’s market demands. Taste mod™ orange delivers an authentic, true-to-fruit Valencia Orange flavour, labeled as “natural flavour” and ideal for clean-label products. Perfect for a wide range of beverage applications, it provides a reliable, high-quality alternative to traditional orange oils.

Results of the annual Commercial Citrus Inventory show total citrus acreage is 274,705 acres, down 17 percent from the last annual survey. The net loss of 57,551 acres is 14,505 acres more than what was lost the previous season. New plantings at 4,751 acres are down from the previous season.

All 23 published counties included in the table on page 3 showed decreases in acreage. Hendry County lost the most acreage, down 12,374 acres from the previous season. Polk County leads in citrus acreage with 58,516 acres, followed by Desoto County at 51,800 acres.

Orange acreage is now at 248,028 acres, down 18 percent from the previous season. Valencia acreage now accounts for 63 percent of the total orange acreage, non-Valencia acreage represents 35 percent, and the remaining orange acreage is unidentified …

Please download the full citrus crop production forecast: www.nass.usda.gov

“Transition in Packaging” will be the key theme for FACHPACK at the Exhibition Centre Nuremberg from 24 to 26 September 2024. This describes the powerful currents that are affecting the packaging sector in Europe right now. High expectations in terms of sustainability combined with new packaging regulations, increasing digitalization and artificial intelligence are just three of the driving themes at FACHPACK 2024. Demographic change also poses challenges for the industry. FACHPACK perceives itself as a guide for the sector, offering both interaction and direction. “The dynamics in the packaging industry have never been greater,” says Heike Slotta, Executive Director Exhibitions at NürnbergMesse. “And companies are responding with impressive powers of design and innovation. We will get to experience these first-hand during the three days of the trade fair, and I’m very much looking forward to it.” The key theme of “Transition in Packaging” will be reflected at the stands of the 1,463 exhibitors, in the extensive lecture programme, in the fascinating special shows and themed pavilions, and in the award presentations. Some 35,000 visitors from the consumer and industrial goods industries are expected.

FACHPACK provides a compact yet comprehensive overview of the products and services along the entire packaging process chain for industrial and consumer goods. That means packaging, the associated technology and the accompanying processes. The trade fair extends to eleven exhibition halls this year. Of the 1,463 exhibitors, 47 percent will travel to Nuremberg from outside Germany, the majority from Austria, Switzerland, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Belgium, Greece, the Czech Republic, France and Turkey.

About 56 percent of exhibitors represent the packaging sector, in other words packaging materials and packaging accessories. Forty-four percent are from the packaging technology area, i.e. packaging machines, labelling systems and automation. The package printing and finishing segments and internal logistics are also covered at FACHPACK.

New food for thought and solutions for the packaging industry

Following a few challenging years, FACHPACK is back in the form in which the industry knows and appreciates it: 1,463 exhibitors will be present in the eleven exhibition halls, and not only the most prominent names in the packaging industry but also many smaller SMEs which will also find their customers here. “FACHPACK is quite simply a ‘class reunion’ for the European packaging industry,” Slotta observes, adding: “For three days we will once again experience the hands-on mentality that’s characteristic of this sector and feel its momentum. The current transformation in the packaging industry is something we are facing with optimism and a focus on solutions. We are actively involved in shaping this transformation, fully in line with our slogan, ‘We create the future’!

New network: Women in focus

A new feature is the Women4Packaging networking event for women in the packaging industry, taking place in the Brussels Room, NCC Mitte, at mid- day on the first day of the trade fair (24.9). This will give female players in the industry a unique opportunity to network on-site, provide mutual inspiration and interact on current themes and trends in the packaging sector. The whole thing takes place in a relaxed atmosphere. A highlight is the Keynote by Vera Strauch, founder of the Female Leadership Academy and expert in Feminist Leadership, on “Grow Your Influence: How to build a strong network and make an authentic impact”. About 150 participants have registered.

New ideas: Presentations with their finger on the pulse

FACHPACK perceives itself as a driving force for the sector. In addition to the extensive product exhibition and the many innovations on show there, this will also be evident from the lecture programme in the forums PACKBOX (Hall 4), INNOVATIONBOX (Hall 2) and SOLPACK 5.0 (Hall 3). All three draw on themes of current interest to the sector, e.g. dealing with the new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulations (PPWR), the circular economy, automation and AI, and also alternative packaging solutions and new fibre-based raw materials.

Highlights in the lecture programme include:

• Safe and sustainable? Evaluation of packaging materials with a focus on recyclates
• Quo Vadis Packaging?– what does the new EU packaging regulation mean in terms of practical business examples
• Digital packaging data: A must-have to handle complexity and new legal demands
• How AI is driving the circular economy
• Digitalization – smart packaging for greater transparency and sustainability
• Future-Ready Packaging – How to make your packaging fit for the future: Best practice examples of paper-based packaging solutions!
• The future of retail: new insights and their impact on the packaging industry

In the PACKBOX forum, moderated on this occasion by industry experts Matthias Mahr (LebensmittelPraxis magazine), Dr Johannes Bergmair (Pack Experts and World Packaging Organisation) and Oliver Berndt (Deutsches Verpackungsinstitut (German Packaging Institute, dvi), key partners to the packaging industry will give shape to the programme and invite visitors to listen in and join the discussion. SOLPACK 5.0, moderated by Peter Désilets and Volker Muche (sustainability agency pacoon GmbH), is devoted to sustainable packaging solutions. At INNOVATIONBOX, moderated by Nina Schönrock and Petra Bindl, registered exhibitors will introduce their new product developments and process innovations in short, punchy presentations.

Good packaging design: Special show “Outside the Box”

Anyone interested in packaging design should be sure to look in on the special design show “Outside the Box” in Hall 4. Organized for FACHPACK by bayern design, this illustrates the drafting and design process from idea through to good packaging design, and offers valuable insights into the impact of design on development processes. Unusual exhibits, e.g. innovative packaging for fitted sheets or a reuse system for domestic products such as detergents or soaps, are used to show design processes that make packaging more suitable for the circular economy, improve awareness of the brands behind products, and create a sense of identification and awareness among customers and users.

Fascinating approaches: Alternative packaging solutions

FACHPACK will offer inspiration this year with a special item on the programme: the “Alternative packaging solutions” pavilion. This is where examples of alternatives to traditional materials will be presented, along with an insight into what could be possible in the future. In the fully booked pavilion in Hall 3, for example, exhibitors will display compostable film bags, padding material made of grain husks, compostable tea bags, packaging made of sugarcane, and much more besides. The SOLPACK 5.0 forum is also part of this pavilion.

Fresh wind: Start-ups conquer the industry

Anyone on the lookout for fresh, unconventional ideas and products to resolve packaging questions will also find these this year among the start- ups in the packaging sector in Hall 2. Awaiting visitors are the “Young Innovators” pavilion for young, innovative companies, sponsored by the German Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Protection (BMWK), and the “Newcomers Pavilion”, which provides a platform where first-time exhibitors at FACHPACK and international newcomers to the sector can introduce themselves and their innovative products and services to the experts.

New industry talents in focus: Students Day on Thursday

The STUDENTS DAY on the third day of the fair (26.9) brings together prominent companies and new talents in the packaging industry. At the invitation of FACHPACK and the German Packaging Institute (dvi), students from the German-speaking region will meet in workshops with professionals from the likes of DALLI Werke, Henkel, Tchibo, Smurfit Kappa and Beiersdorf. An animated exchange of ideas on the demands of the future and the specifics of working in the packaging industry is guaranteed.

Achievements honoured: German Packaging Award

On the first day of the fair, the stage will once again be set for a total of 41 winners of the German Packaging Award, Europe’s top showcase for all aspects of packaging. Almost 250 submissions from 13 countries were submitted in advance for personal inspection and assessment. The German Packaging Award is presented by the German Packaging Institute (dvi) in ten categories. The presentation will take place in the Munich Room, NCC Mitte, from 16:30. As a premium partner, FACHPACK will present the special award for young talents. This distinction recognises the best packaging designs by school pupils, apprentices and students.

Industry development: Caution and optimism for 2025

The results of a current survey among associations in the German packaging industry show that weak economic conditions and growing regulatory demands are particular sources of concern for the packaging sector. According to the associations, however, an initial recovery in the economic situation in Germany is making itself felt. A cautious optimism is in the air for 2025. “As an industry platform, FACHPACK can assist the packaging industry with its challenges,” says Slotta. “Together it’s possible to develop ideas and solutions to encourage economic success for the industry. A trade fair that represents an entire sector can achieve more than individual companies on their own.”

According to the Food and Packaging Machinery Association at VDMA, incoming orders for packaging machines in the first four months of 2024 increased by 16 percent in real terms. Positive development overall is expected for the second half of the year. Global demand remains huge, and the potentials in the emerging economies in particular are far from being exhausted.

IK Industrievereinigung Kunststoffverpackungen (the Plastic Packaging Industry Association, IK) expects a slight economic recovery in the second half of 2024. The strongest drivers of hope in its view are the stable export expectations and adaptation strategies on the part of companies to secure supplies of raw materials and the circular economy. The Industrieverband Papier- und Folienverpackungen (IPV), the German association representing producers of packaging made from paper and plastic films, perceives major opportunities in the strong trend toward light, customizable and easily recyclable packaging. The folding box segment sees the possibility of an upswing in the future substitution of packaging based on petrochemicals with fibre-based recyclable packaging. A slight upturn in business from autumn 2024 is expected in the wooden packaging sector. In addition to the economic situation in Germany, the Bundesverband Holzpackmittel, Paletten, Exportverpackung (the German association for wooden packaging materials, pallets and export packaging, HPE) is looking toward foreign trade, since it perceives that a decline in foreign trade is causing a downward trend in demand for wooden packaging. As for glass containers, the Bundesverband Glasindustrie (the German glass industry association) assumes that the situation will continue to stabilize during 2024. The Verband der Wellpappen-Industrie (German Corrugated Board Industry Association, VDW) expects to see a gradual process of recovery for 2024. In the first five months of 2024, VDW members experienced revenue growth of 1.6 percent compared to the same period last year. Further information, figures and graphics on the packaging market in Germany and Europe can be found in the FACHPACK360° news portal.

There is a global call for reduced sugar that is shaking the JNSD world – particularly fruit juice production. Driven by consumer concerns about health and weight, and further burdened by sugar taxes and other regulations in a number of countries, how can you reduce the sugar level of juice products, while maintaining quality and consumer appeal?

You can dilute the juice, of course, but there are also technologies available to reduce the intrinsic sugars in the juice itself (mainly sucrose, glucose and fructose). These are membrane filtration, enzymatic sugar transformation, and yeast fermentation. Tetra Pak has invested in fermentation – with a special process that can reduce sugar to practically zero.

The new approach to this problem reduces sugar through controlled fermentation, followed by yeast removal and removal of the alcohol. The resulting juice with 0 % sugar can then be blended with normal juice to achieve any level of sugar reduction you desire.

The yeast Tetra Pak use has been specifically selected because of its history of safe use within the food industry, its suitability for sugar reduction in juice, and its fermentation efficiency and reproducibility.

A new white paper by Tetra Pak describes processing lines for fermentation, yeast removal and dealcoholisation, as well as final blending of fruit juices. The company explain why the monitoring of temperature, agitation and sugar levels is essential to an optimal and cost-effective process. Food-grade alcohol can be extracted from the process for various food and beverage applications, if desired.

The concept has been proven in technical and consumer tests, and offers you a broad opportunity to create an entirely new product category – reduced-sugar juices and drinks. The scope of creative blending is practically limitless.

Nanovel unveils AI-powered fruit harvesting robot, secures USD 900,000 in funding

The Nanovel AI-powered autonomous fruit-harvesting robot is the world’s first-of-its-kind system designed to pick citrus fruit for fresh markets from large trees with dense foliage, representing a breakthrough in fruit-harvesting technology.

Nanovel, an Israeli AgTech startup, has unveiled an AI-powered autonomous fruit-harvesting robot capable of picking tree fruit for the fresh market. The robot offers a solution to growers worldwide dealing with farm labor shortage and rapidly increasing costs. According to a survey conducted by Western Growers organisation, profitability and labour availability were ranked as the top two challenges faced by specialty crop growers.

Nanovel was established in 2018 by the company’s CEO Isaac Mazor, a successful serial entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in technology innovation, AI, computer vision, and robotics. Mazor was the Founder and CEO of Jordan Valley Semiconductors, which was acquired by Bruker International in 2015 (Nasdaq : BRKR).

The Nanovel AI-powered autonomous fruit-harvesting robot is the world’s first-of-its-kind system designed to pick citrus fruit for fresh market in dense foliage, representing a high level of technological complexity. The system features a multi-arm platform, which will initially be towed by a tractor. Future versions are planned to include an internal driving unit and autonomous navigation capabilities. The robot’s telescopic arms are equipped with edge computing, advanced vision systems, and AI to identify, assess, and selectively pick fruit with precision that meets fresh market quality standards. In the first phase, the robot is planned to harvest oranges, with later expansion to other types of citrus, the most widely cultivated fruit globally. The company’s crop roadmap includes lemons, grapefruits, avocados, mangoes, peaches, and nectarines.

Each arm of the robot uses a patented end-effector with a vacuum gripper to cradle the fruit and then trim the stems using cutters without damaging the fruit. The fruit is then transported via conveyor belts to bins. The robot uses advanced edge computing to deliver real-time, AI-driven data necessary for fruit picking. This is a key component of Nanovel’s technology, allowing the robot to pick fruit in dense foliage. Nanovel robots will prove invaluable to growers in the United States, where orange harvesting occurs year-round, allowing for high capital utilisation.

With this in mind, the California Citrus Research Board (CRB) has signed a non-dilutive funding agreement with Nanovel, which includes the delivery of a robot after a series of field trials in California, totaling USD 900,000. The field trials are set to start in the spring of 2025, and will be conducted in cooperation with leading citrus growers

A key benefit of the Nanovel AI-powered autonomous fruit-harvesting robot is its ability to significantly reduce labor costs and minimize the logistical challenges associated with hiring seasonal workers. Studies show that manual harvesting is the single most labour-intensive task for fruit farmers, accounting for up to 50 % of annual cultural costs in the citrus industry in developed countries. Additionally, the system can operate day and night, optimising productivity and ensuring crops are picked at optimal times, potentially improving fruit quality and market value.

Furthermore, automating the harvesting process helps avoid the dangerous task of laborers picking fruit while on ladders. This alone supports a huge improvement in worker safety and reduces the risk of accidents and injuries. Additionally, the real-time collection of harvest data by the system, delivers invaluable insights that can be used for packing and marketing activities and can also provide important agronomic insights to growers.

“Our mission is to secure the affordability of fresh fruit through autonomous harvesting,” said Isaac Mazor, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Nanovel. “Our goal is to deploy Nanovel’s solution into major global citrus markets, particularly in the US and Southern European countries like Spain and Italy. We aim to set a new standard for fresh market harvesting, ensuring high quality and economic viability for growers.”

Collaborations between well-known brands, such as the recent Coca-Cola and Oreo partnership, are of mutual benefit to companies by way of sales and marketing promotion. The partnerships allow collaborating brands to leverage their existing fan bases and create a buzz around the product. As such, beverage companies need to innovate beyond their markets, as 65 % of global consumers say it is essential or nice to have a well-known brand when deciding to make a purchase^*, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

In August this year, The Coca-Cola Company announced a partnership with Mondelez to launch a limited-edition cola with flavours inspired by Oreo cookies. As well as recently, the two global brands have released Oreo Coca-Cola cookies. This collaboration aims to celebrate the bond between the food and drink-based brands as they label themselves “besties” and offer consumers a unique and playful experience.

Similarly, Fanta, another brand under Coca-Cola, is rolling out a limited-edition apple flavour variant called Fanta Zero Afterlife. This launch is timed for Halloween and is part of Fanta’s Halloween activity. The packaging will feature Beetlejuice-themed designs, creating a strong association with Fanta and Warner Bros. Pictures brands.

George Shaw, Consumer Analyst at Globaldata, comments: “This marketing campaign aims to drive talkability and engage both Fanta and film fans. Moreover, these collaborations and limited-edition products are part of a larger trend in the beverage market, where companies are constantly looking for ways to innovate and attract consumers with unique offerings. By partnering with well-known brands or incorporating popular themes, companies can generate brand excitement and increase sales.”

By introducing limited-edition flavours, companies can create a sense of urgency and encourage consumers to try the product before it’s gone. The impact of these collaborations and limited-edition products is significant. GlobalData’s Q2 2024 Global consumer survey reveals that consumers value novel and unique features when making purchasing decisions and 60 % of them consider it essential or nice to have novel/unique features when deciding to make a purchase. This aligns with the strategy of Coca-Cola.

According to GlobalData, the global carbonates market is projected to reach USD 521 billion by 2029, and global companies are collaborating to capture market share.

Shaw adds: “This highlights the competitive nature of the carbonates industry and the importance of innovation and strategic partnerships. Coca-Cola and Fanta’s collaborations demonstrate their efforts to stay ahead in the market and attract consumers with unique offerings.”

Coca-Cola is not the only beverage brand using collaborations. GHOST, a supplement lifestyle brand, has launched a lineup of hydration drinks in collaboration with Sour Patch Kids. This collaboration aims to provide consumers with a familiar tasting way to optimise their hydration during intensive workouts. GHOST can tap into the popularity of the Sour Kids Patch brand to attract a new base of customers previously unreached by hydration beverages and attract a potentially younger demographic.

Shaw concludes: “The collaborations between beverage brands like Coca Cola and Ghost showcase the importance of innovation and strategic partnership. As consumer demand for novel and distinctive offerings grows, these collaborations in the carbonates and sports drinks markets are crucial for capturing market share and increasing brand loyalty.”

^*GlobalData 2024 Q2 Consumer Survey – Global, published in July 2024, included 22,016 respondents

Elopak announced that it will further accelerate growth by expanding its capacity at the announced U.S. production plant. The new production plant situated in Little Rock, Arkansas, USA is under construction and will now include two production lines.

When announced in June 2023, the production plant included a significant investment of around USD 70 million covering land, building and equipment. State-of-the-art technology will produce Pure-Pak® cartons for liquid dairy, juices, plant-based products and liquid eggs. Over 100 permanent jobs will be created and the new production facility is expected to start production in H1, 2025.

Since this announcement, the company has sold out the full production capacity for the first production line and is experiencing continued demand. Today’s announcement of a second production line will contribute with up to USD 110 million in revenues for an incremental investment of around USD 25 million. The second production line is expected to be in production in 2026.

Thomas Körmendi, CEO says: “I am pleased to announce the expansion of the new US plant with a second production line to continue to build on and accelerate the profitable growth in the region. This is a clear response to the continued strong demand that we see for Elopak as a reliable business partner. This is a new step towards realising our newly announced long-term ambition to become a 2 EUR billion company”.

“We have sold out the full production capacity for the first production line in the new plant, further strengthening and derisking the investment case for our expansion into the US. With the construction progressing according to plan and with a continued strong demand for our products, it is time to add more capacity to better serve existing and new customers in Americas”, says Lionel Ettedgui, EVP North America.

Most part of São Paulo state registered high temperatures in early September. This scenario brought concerns for citrus growers, who may face another year of significant heat waves.

Climatempo says that heat waves in September have become more common in most part of Brazil; however, they have been more intense and are lasting longer.

2024/25 CROP – São Paulo state and Triângulo Mineiro may harvest 215.78 million 40.8-kg boxes in the 2024/25 orange season, according to data released by Fundecitrus on September 10. The volume may be 30 % less than in the crop before, which registered average production, and below the first projection, of 232.38 million boxes.

The decrease is related to the smaller fruit size, due to the dry and warm weather. The weather also accelerated the harvesting pace, since it influenced the ripening. More than half of the crop can be harvested in this dry weather scenario because rains are forecast only for late September.

The volume of rainfall was small in almost all areas in the citrus belt, except in the southwestern region of São Paulo. Fundecitrus indicates that the only area where the production is expected to increase in this season is the southwest of SP – the harvest may be 19 % higher than in 2023/24. In other regions, the production decrease can be between 28 % and 60 %.

Perricone Farms, a premium craft juice company with deep roots in California’s citrus industry, announced its acquisition of Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Company, an award-winning juice company based in Fort Pierce, Florida. The merger unites two of the highest quality and most trusted names in the juice industry, strengthens both brands, and enhances the ability to serve customers with excellence in quality and customer service in the US.

The combined company will be able to take advantage of bi-coastal production facilities, improve its delivery capabilities, expand product offerings, and leverage its additional scale to ensure juices reach customers with the same uncompromising quality they have come to know and love.

“We are excited to add Natalie’s to the Perricone Farms family. Natalie’s commitment to producing the highest quality products, combined with unmatched customer service, aligns with the core values we have been providing in the marketplace for years. Working together, we will be stronger and will be able to provide greater value to our customers,” said Bob Rovzar, CEO of Perricone Farms. “This exciting merger offers new opportunities for growth and expansion, including entrance into new markets, developing innovative products, and strengthening relationships with customers, suppliers, vendors, and partners. Together, Perricone Farms and Natalie’s are now better equipped to ensure the continued success and growth of both brands.”

Over the decades, Perricone Farms and Natalie’s Juices have become industry experts at procuring and producing the highest quality juices. By unifying these two entities, we strengthen our undisputed reputation for being the best premium juice provider in the food service and retail channel.

“The impressive growth that has driven the success behind the Natalie’s brand for the past 35 years has been built on the brand loyalty and relationships we have established with our customers and consumers. We are forever grateful for the opportunity to serve them with the nation’s best-tasting juice—not because it was our job, but because we loved doing it,” said Natalie’s CEO, Marygrace Sexton, who founded the award-winning juice company, named after her daughter, over 35 years ago.  “We are excited for the future and the opportunities this partnership will provide our cherished Natalie’s family. Natalie’s has been built to last and will be providing you with authentic juices on a world-wide scale for generations to come.”

With the foundations for both companies built on a shared vision and values that have existed for generations, the combined company will remain devoted to a legacy that has been rooted in tradition and a commitment to exceeding expectations in quality and customer service.

Health claims influence the food and beverage purchasing decisions of most consumers, and are particularly likely to resonate with the youngest, research has shown.

Global ingredient supplier Prinova surveyed over 1500 adult consumers in Europe and the US.^* Seventy-two per cent said they were more likely to buy a food or beverage product if the packaging mentioned a health benefit. However, this rose to 87 % among those aged 18 to 24, and to 80 % among those aged 25 to 34.

Overall, the claims most likely to influence purchasing decisions were low-sugar or sugar-free, weight management and energy support. The ingredients most likely to influence purchasing decisions were probiotics, vitamins and minerals and fibre, while the concerns most likely to affect food and beverage purchases were gut health, healthy ageing and fatigue.

James Street, Global Marketing Director at Prinova, said: “There’s a long-term trend towards more proactive approaches to wellbeing, with dietary changes a key element of consumers’ strategies for living better. As a result, they’re increasingly seeking out food and beverage products with health benefits. Our research demonstrates the value of well communicated health claims, especially in key areas like gut health and energy support. While they resonate powerfully across all demographics, our research provides new evidence that zoomers and millennials are particularly likely to focus on wellness when choosing between products.”

The research also reveals high levels of interest in personalised approaches to nutrition. Seventy-nine per cent of respondents believed that their particular genetic make-up affected their nutritional needs either slightly or significantly, with millennials and women particularly likely to agree.

Forty-one per cent were keen to try a test that monitored how particular foods affected their bodies, while 32 % were interested in tracking their diet and nutrition through an app or questionnaire. Thirty per cent of respondents overall, and 37 % of those aged 25-34, were interested in wearable devices to monitor their blood sugar levels.

Sixty-six per cent of the consumers surveyed played video games at least once a week, and 61 % of these said they used food or nutrition products to improve their gaming performance. The ingredients most associated with superior performance were caffeine, B vitamins and ginseng.

Prinova is a leader in categories like amino acids, plant proteins, sweeteners and vitamins. Its branded ingredients include enduracarb® trehalose, a slow-release carbohydrate designed to provide sustained energy, and LactoSpore®, a clinically validated shelf-stable probiotic.

Download the full report at: https://tinyurl.com/yyksms7p

*Survey of 1,582 consumers in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK and the US. Conducted online in June 2024.

Total orange production¹ is updated at 215.78 million boxes

The first update of the 2024-2025 orange crop forecast for the São Paulo and West-Southwest Minas Gerais citrus belt, published by Fundecitrus, carried out in cooperation with Markestrat and full professors from FEA-RP/USP and FCAV/Unesp², is 215.78 million boxes of 40.8 kg. Of the total, 200.46 million boxes come from the first three blooms, while 15.32 million boxes belong to the fourth bloom. Compared to the initial estimate in May, the projection shows a reduction of 16.60 million boxes, which corresponds to a 7.1 % decrease. Analyzing by maturity group, the early-season varieties decrease by approximately 3 %, the mid-season (Pera) by 11 %, and the late-season varieties by 7 %. Compared to the previous crop (307.22 million boxes), the current projection represents a 29.8 % drop, with early-season varieties down by roughly 33 %, mid-season (Pera) by 35 %, and late-season varieties by 24 %. It is also estimated that approximately 14.34 million boxes will be harvested in the Triângulo Mineiro region. …

Please download the complete forecast under: www.fundecitrus.com.br/pdf

¹Hamlin, Westin, Rubi, Valencia Americana, Seleta, Pineapple, Alvorada, Pera Rio, Valencia, Valencia Folha Murcha and Natal.
²Department of Exact Sciences, FCAV/Unesp Jaboticabal Campus.

The 11th edition of the Juice Summit will take place on 16 and 17 October 2024 in Antwerp

The Juice and Nectar Industry is set to convene at the Juice Summit 2024, jointly organised by AIJN, the European Fruit Juice Association, IFU, the International Fruit and Vegetable Juice Association and SGF International (SAFE – GLOBAL – FAIR).

Since its launch in 2013, the Juice Summit has grown into the leading event for the juice industry, attracting over 450 participants every year. This highly anticipated gathering will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders from all around the world to explore the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the global juice sector.

The Juice Summit 2024 will offer a unique opportunity for insightful dialogue and building valuable connections. Attendees will gain insights from prominent speakers, engage in thought-provoking panel discussions, and participate in interactive sessions focused on key industry themes.

Key highlights of the Juice Summit 2024:

• Inspirational keynotes: Hear from leading figures in the juice industry, including Elwin de Groot, Head of Macro Strategy at Rabo Research and Thomas Körmendi, CEO of Elopak Group.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry colleagues, potential partners, and thought leaders to foster new collaborations and exchange ideas.

Session highlights:

• Understanding Consumer Minds, Market Trends, and Research-Driven Strategies: Explore consumer behavior, market dynamics, and expert perspectives on the new sugar-reduced juice category.
• Main threats and new approaches for a healthy orange industry in Brazil: Explore challenges like citrus greening, economic pressures, and environmental factors, along with innovative strategies to protect the orange industry.
• The PPWR (r)evolution: How the juice business can thrive in a circular economy? Learn about the evolving regulations and how the industry can adapt to thrive in a circular economy.
• Supply Chain & Demand: Analyse the complexities of balancing supply and demand in the juice industry, focusing on logistics, forecasting, and the impact of global market fluctuations.

To secure your place at the Juice Summit 2024 and view the full agenda, please visit The Juice Summit. Early registration is encouraged, as spaces are limited and expected to fill quickly.

All Citrus Value Up 6 Percent, Production Up 12 Percent

The USD 221 million preliminary on-tree value of the 2023-2024 citrus crop is 6 percent more than the USD 208 million revised value for 2022-2023.

Florida’s all citrus production in 2023-2024 is 20.2 million boxes, up 12 percent from the previous season’s 18.1 million boxes. All orange production increased by 14 percent to 18.0 million boxes. Non-Valencia production at 6.76 million boxes is up 10 percent from the 2022-2023 season. Valencia orange production at 11.2 million boxes is up 16 percent. All grapefruit production decreased 1 percent to 1.79 million boxes. Tangerine and tangelo production in 2023-2024 is down 6 percent from the previous season …

Please download the full citrus crop production forecast: www.nass.usda.gov

Swiss headquartered international Baumer Group has acquired Manas Microsystems Pvt. Ltd. Manas Microsystems is one of the largest and technologically leading manufacturers of flow meters in India. The company provides innovative products for flow measurement of various gases and liquids. Manas flow meters are well suited for a wide variety of applications, as they are rugged, accurate, and operate in harsh environmental conditions.

Manas was founded in 1998, located in Pune/Western India. With a team of 80 employees who manu-facture, calibrate and provide after sales support, Manas today is a well recognised name in the process industry. With a wide portfolio of flow meters, a certified test and calibration laboratory, Manas is serving diverse industries including water and waste water, dairy, automotive, sugar, textile, paper and pulp, heat treatment and pharmaceuticals.

Mr. Shrikant Sahasrabudhe, founder and Managing Director of Manas Microsystems, is delighted to hand over the company to Baumer: “The integration of Manas Microsystems into the Baumer Group will strengthen our position in flow measurement business allowing us to deliver even more value to our cli-ents and stakeholders. Manas Microsystems brings innovative technology, a talented team, a proactive service team, a strong client base and a good infrastructure, while Baumer brings in international experi-ence, a large customer base, modern techniques and a good brand image that is complementary to our business.”

Dr. Oliver Vietze, CEO and Chairman of the Baumer Group says: “Baumer has been active in India for almost 20 years, both with its own sales organisation and with a production site for process instruments. With our broad sensor portfolio, we have established an excellent position in this growing market. With the acquisition of Manas Microsystems, we are strengthening this position and are further expanding the expertise of Baumer as an international specialist in process sensor technology.”

Recent wildfires in several areas in São Paulo state concerned players. According to data gathered by Cepea, wildfires hit some citrus areas, especially the central-north of the state; however, this scenario may not bring significant impacts on the volume of fruits available in the market.

According to players surveyed by Cepea, the areas hit by wildfires are small and the landowners were able to control them rapidly. The rainfall in some areas also helped to control the problem. Damages were more significant for other crops, especially sugarcane.

Market

Prices for the pear orange have been at historical levels this year both in the in natura market and in the industrial segment. The limited supply of the current season and the firm demand from the industry explain this scenario. The price average was at BRL 100.00 per 40.8-kilo box, on tree, at the end of August.

However, the cold wave in São Paulo state in late August led consumers to be away from trades in the orange market. This scenario was reinforced by the end-of-the month period. On the other hand, the limited supply and high prices of industrial contracts continued to sustain quotations in the in natura market.

The demand for recycled plastics is increasing rapidly worldwide: consumer awareness is growing, companies are setting themselves ever more ambitious sustainability targets and recycling requirements from international governments are also increasing. As a company with almost 30 years of experience in plastics processing and almost 25 years in the field of recycling, Krones has now taken the pioneering decision to pool its recycling expertise in the independent subsidiary Krones Recycling GmbH from July 2024.

A logical step, as Krones CEO Christoph Klenk explains: “The spin-off will enable Krones Recycling to develop faster and in line with market requirements. Because in line with our claim Solutions beyond tomorrow, this division makes a decisive contribution to protecting the environment by returning plastic waste to the value-added cycle.”

More flexibility, familiar all-in-one service

In addition, thanks to leaner processes and structures, the new company will be able to respond more quickly to changes in the constantly changing recycling market, says Michael Gotsche, Managing Director of Krones Recycling GmbH: “The newly founded company offers us the necessary flexibility and scope for action to be able to implement decisions in a customer-oriented, fast and optimised manner.”

For all its independence, however, the name Krones Recycling not only symbolises the focus on plant en-gineering in the field of recycling, it also reflects the close connection to the Krones Group. “We know that our clients appreciate Krones’ overall line expertise, which means they get everything from a single source. They can continue to rely on this in the future. The worldwide sales and service network is also available to us without restriction,” Gotsche continues.

Ambitious goals

A large number of plastics such as PET, PE, PP and PS are already being processed on Krones Recycling’s lines worldwide. “Our vision is to make a daily contribution to a global circular economy for all plastics by offering our customers sustainable and profitable recycling solutions,” says Michael Gotsche, describing the overarching business objective. There is also a clear marker in relation to Krones’ sustainability targets: at least 30 per cent of the plastics processed on Krones lines are to be returned to the cycle as a recycled resource.

Consequently, Krones Recycling will continue to conduct intensive research into new innovations at its in-house Recycling Technology Centre. There, tests on the recyclability of various plastics, including adhesives and colours, can also be carried out under real conditions on behalf of customers.

The German plant manufacturer WELTEC BIOPOWER is supporting Yarra Valley Water for the refurbishment of its 1-megawatt biogas plant in the north of Melbourne. Yarra Valley Water, is one of Australia‘s largest water and wastewater companies. Since the completion of the waste and food waste plant by WELTEC BIOPOWER and its project partner in 2017, Yarra Valley Water’s Aurora Treatment Plant has been energy self-sufficient. In order to be able to operate the plant profitably into the future, it has been undergoing a technical modernisation including biological service was planned for August 2024. The work of the local team is being supported by WELTEC on site.

The output of the plant, which has two 530-kilowatt CHP units, covers the energy requirements of the biogas plant. The electricity generated is able to power both the facility itself and the sewage treatment plant, with excess energy is exported to the electricity grid. The plant has a processing capacity of 33,000 tons of organic waste from food processors and restaurants to generate around 7,500,000 kilowatt hours of energy per year. Accepted waste includes fats, oils, brewery and dairy residues, fruit and vegetables which are fed into the stainless steel containers. The plant has already won prestigious awards for its technology: These include the Premier‘s Sustainability Award for leading innovation and practice in Victoria and the Banksia Award for Leading in Circular Economy.

At the start of the maintenance work, the tanks will first be completely emptied. In addition, the roofs of the two 3,573 cubic meter stainless steel fermenters and internal plant components such as the agitator technology will be replaced. The plant will then be commissioned and operational management will be secured. The digester contents will be temporarily stored in the storage tank and material can be filled back into the tanks after the refurbishment so the plant can be up and running quickly. This saves resources and costs. In addition, it is easier to restart the biological process when the fermented material is immediately available. Last but not least, the processes also comply with occupational safety requirements, which are a high priority in Australia – especially when emptying and filling the tanks. WELTEC will also provide on-site staff training.

“WELTEC BIOPOWER has been a valued partner in our successful journey with our Wollert Facility. We value their commitment to safety and quality and have leveraged their expertise in mechanical and biological consulting over the lifespan of our facility,” emphasises Stephanie Salinas, Manager Waste to Energy Services at YVW. “WELTEC can look back on extensive experience with such complex refurbishment projects. We are delighted that we have been able to enjoy the trust of our customers over such a long period of time,” says Vladimir Bogatov, Area Sales Manager Asia Pacific at WELTEC BIOPOWER. With more than 400 biogas plants planned and built worldwide and a strong service department, WELTEC has the necessary level of expertise for such modernisations. This experience is also valued Down Under to ensure that the plant operation remains flexible and continues to live up to its reputation as one of Australia‘s most innovative biogas projects in the future.

Company’s largest-ever campaign will support zero sugar, full-flavour line rolling out in the US this fall

Zero sugar juices are known for having zero flavour – until now. Welch’s, the leading name in bold fruit flavours for over 150 years, is changing the game with the launch of their new line of zero sugar juices that don’t compromise on flavour.

“We heard from our more health-conscious consumers that they wanted a zero-sugar juice option that didn’t compromise on flavour, and the options currently in the juice and refrigerated aisles just weren’t delivering on that ask,” said Scott Utke, Chief Marketing Officer at Welch’s. “Our team worked tirelessly to innovate a line of zero-sugar juices that are bursting with the bold, fruit flavours Welch’s is known for, and we believe this new line is a game-changer for consumers who are mindful about the choices they are making when it comes to sugar.”

In September, Welch’s largest-ever marketing campaign, “You Gotta Sip It, To Get It,” will kick off to support the new line of zero sugar juices. From social to streaming, custom integrations to sponsorships, and sampling to experiential events – the campaign will appear across various consumer touchpoints. Highlighting the puzzling moments in life that make our heads tilt in curiosity. However, once one tries Welch’s Zero, these bewildering moments transform into a refreshingly flavourful experience – reinforcing the notion that “You Gotta Sip It to Get It!”

Welch’s Zero Sugar is available in two refreshing refrigerated flavours: Passion Fruit and Grape (59 oz cartons), and three delicious shelf-stable flavours: Tropical Punch, Strawberry, and Concord Grape, offered in multi-serve (64 oz) and single-serve (10 oz) sizes. Crafted with the same commitment to quality and flavour that has made Welch’s a trusted household name, each serving is bursting with vibrant, real fruit flavour with 0 grams of sugar and provides an excellent source of Vitamin C (20 % of DV).

All flavours of Welch’s Zero will be available in juice aisles and refrigerated sections at retailers in the US starting September 1.

The 2024/25 crop-year for orange juice exports (from July/24 to June/25) has started in July and shipments, which had been moving down in 2023/24, continued to move at a slow pace. This scenario was already expected, since the supply is limited in Brazil, due to the confirmation of a smaller orange production in São Paulo state and in Triângulo Mineiro. At the same time, Brazilian imports of in natura orange and tangerine rose in July.

Orange juice exports

According to Comex Stat, Brazil shipped 53.4 thousand tons of orange juice in July, downing 38 % compared to the same month in 2023. The limited supply boosted quotations. As a result, the revenue totaled USD 198.9 million in July/24, for an increase of 9 % in relation to July/23.

NFC orange juice shipments amounted 164.2 thousand tons in July/24, and the revenue totaled USD 96.45 million, upping 3 % and 55 % against July/23. As for FCOJ exports, the total was 23.6 thousand tons (-59 %), and the revenue was USD 102.4 million (-15 % in one year).

In natura citrus fruits imports

In natura orange imports are at record volumes this year, boosted by the low domestic supply and high prices of national fruits. According to data from Comex Stat, from January to July, 34.8 thousand tons were imported, 87 % up in relation to the same period last year. Expenses amounted USD 24.7 million, 72 % more this year against the previous.

As for tangerines, the volume purchased by Brazil in the partial of 2024 totaled 14.5 thousand tons, 96 % more than in the period from January to July last year. Expenses are at USD 15.65 million (+89 %).

Domestic market

Quotations of citrus fruits surveyed by Cepea may continue to increase in August, sustained by expectations of a limited supply for all varieties. This scenario can be verified despite the orange season peak.

The orange harvesting is moving at a good pace in the citrus belt, but most part of the produce has been allocated to the juice industry. Factories continue with high prices to purchase the raw material, leading many producers that typically operate in the in natura market to allocate oranges for processing activities. Therefore, not even the low demand, due to mild temperatures, was able to press down quotations.

Symrise announces the opening of a new office and lab facility for Food & Beverage in Beijing. To optimally serve the dynamic and rapidly growing consumer base in the area the company has invested EUR 1.5 million in the facility. The location will enhance the R&D capabilities, customer proximity, and market presence in the North of China.

The country’s diverse and evolving tastes, driven by a rising middle class and increasing urbanisation, lead to stronger demand for beverages, dairy, culinary, and snacks. By expanding its presence in China, particularly with the new facility in Beijing, Symrise can perfectly cater to local preferences and swiftly respond to market trends.

The 800 sqm facility in Beijing covers 250 sqm of office space and 400 sqm of advanced laboratory areas as well as 150 sqm administration rooms. The labs include specialised zones for beverage and dairy creation, application, savory creation as well as snacks and seasonings, each equipped with dedicated workstations and evaluation rooms. This state-of-the-art setup enables Symrise to develop products tailored to the market. It can also provide comprehensive and swift support to customers in the region, ensuring timely and efficient service.

A key market for food & beverage applications

“China represents a crucial market for Symrise due to its dynamic and rapidly growing consumer base in food & beverage applications. As a logical consequence we have expanded our Beijing site to significantly enhance our R&D capabilities,” said Walter Ribeiro, Global President, Food & Beverage at Symrise. “With a focus on customer proximity and technical excellence, this facility will serve as a vital hub for innovation and customer collaboration.

The facility also adds further resources to the company’s main lab in Shanghai, ensuring continuous support and resource optimization. It offers an improved working environment for the team, with modern amenities and a design that balances flexibility, efficiency, and local cultural elements.

“This strategic positioning enhances our ability to innovate and introduce new products tailored to Chinese consumers,” adds Robert Marti, VP North Asia, Food & Beverage at Symrise. “It also strengthens our engagements with local food and beverage producers. As we continue to develop and optimise our offerings, both our customers and consumers will benefit from a broader range of high-quality products, leading to increased satisfaction and loyalty in this key region.”

The Beijing office and lab underscore Symrise’s commitment to innovation, customer intimacy, and market expansion. With additional hires of technical experts, the company sees itself well-positioned to drive growth and deliver superior products across various categories. Symrise anticipates this facility will enhance its current offerings and open market opportunities, solidifying its presence in the Northern China and beyond.

A recent survey shows that more and more people are concerned about their mental health: 53 % of respondents report anxiety, 33 % struggle with fatigue and exhaustion and 30 % are affected by depression (Innova Trends Survey 2024). Awareness of the connection between nutrition and well-being is clearly reflected in the attitudes of consumers. Worldwide, 43 % of them stated that they had started eating a healthy diet in 2023 to improve their mental or emotional well-being (Innova Lifestyles and Attitudes Survey 2023). More and more manufacturers of food supplements and functional beverages are picking up on this consumer behavior.

Minerals and vitamins for a powerful brain

Many micronutrients support mental and emotional well-being, cognitive performance and sleep quality. Fortification with significant amounts of vitamins and minerals allows for the advertisement of these properties in the form of health claims under the Food Information Regulation (EU) No. 1169 / 2011. In addition, consumers are showing an increasing interest in other functional ingredients such as nootropics and adaptogens, which contribute to improving cognitive performance and stress management.

“Numerous research results indicate that micronutrients in the form of dietary supplements can help reduce stress and anxiety and improve mood and sleep,” says Clarissa Burk, Product Manager at SternVitamin. “Our micronutrient premixes simplify the development of new end products that meet the growing consumer demand for solutions in these areas. They are guided by current nutritional and lifestyle trends and can be customised to our customers’ product parameters and production processes.”

Inspiration for the development of new products

An overview of which micronutrients and functional ingredients support mental well-being and cognitive performance can be found in the SternVitamin white paper “Healthy mood. Healthy mind. Healthy sleep.” In addition to consumer data and market trends, scientific background information provides valuable insights for the development of new products.

The premix solutions presented in the white paper are also informed by this knowledge and consist of blends of micronutrients and other functional ingredients tailored to various facets of mental health. These can be used in the production of various end products that meet the growing needs of consumers. For example, the SternMind premix solution for instant beverages supports mental health, reduces symptoms of mental stress and promotes positive thinking. It contains a balanced blend of vitamins, minerals as well as L-theanine, and can be supplemented with other ingredients such as Rhodiola rosea and Panax ginseng.

Download the whitepaper here.