A new randomised controlled trial, conducted by Gaylor et al,ⁱⁱ demonstrates that BENEO’s Palatinose^™ slow and sustained release carbohydrate improves aspects of sleep when consumed as a bedtime drink. By leading to more balanced blood glucose levels, particularly during the first half of the night, Palatinose^™ may support a longer deep sleep phase and thus restful sleep.¹ Based on this research, there is now even more evidence to show that Palatinose^™ provides a range of benefits beyond metabolic health.

Various studies worldwide have shown the prevalence of insomnia in 10 % – 30 % of the population, some even as high as 50 % – 60 %.ⁱⁱⁱ As poor sleep quality is known to be a risk factor for obesity, impaired glucose metabolism and dementia, insomnia is a major public health issue. With this in mind, the findings of Gaylor et al are of key importance, as they demonstrate that the right choice of carbohydrate can positively impact a person’s sleep and mental wellbeing.

The study was designed to explore the effect of Palatinose^™ (isomaltulose), compared to glucose, on a person’s sleep. Using a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, cross-over design, the study was undertaken with 20 healthy young men, with a mean age of 24 years. The participants’ blood glucose was monitored continuously, and their sleep characteristic metrics were monitored in a laboratory setting using polysomnography and actigraphy.² One week after an acclimatisation night in the laboratory setting, half of the men were given 50 g of isomaltulose, while the other half received 50 g of glucose, dissolved in a 300 ml drink of water. A further week later, the participants who had had a glucose drink, received one with Palatinose^™ and vice versa. The format for all three visits to the laboratory was: all participants ate a standardised evening meal, and later viewed a series of neutral, positive and negative stories, then 15 minutes before bedtime, at approximately 11pm, the drinks were consumed. In the morning, story recall was tested.

The results showed that the participants who consumed the bedtime drink containing Palatinose^™ had a slower and more sustained release of glucose to their blood, preventing dips in blood sugar levels – particularly during the first half of the night. In addition, those who consumed the drink with Palatinose^™ during the second intervention had an extended deep sleep phase by an average of 22 minutes. This is because more balanced blood glucose levels promote deeper sleep and fewer periods of wakefulness. A better memory for neutral story content was also observed when Palatinose^™ was consumed as the second intervention.^iv

Commenting on the findings, Dr Stephan Theis, Head of Nutrition Sciences and Communication at BENEO, says: “These findings are significant, as deep or slow-wave sleep is important for physical recovery and cognitive health. By supporting balanced blood sugar levels and prolonging the deep sleep phase, Palatinose^™ may improve restful sleep and a person’s overall well-being. Its ability to sustain blood sugar levels overnight may also have far-reaching implications for dietary interventions, targeting sleep disorders and cognitive decline.”

BENEO’s Palatinose^™ (isomaltulose) is a naturally sourced, smart carbohydrate that provides full carbohydrate energy (4 kcal/g) in a more balanced way, thanks to its low-glycaemic profile. Being a sugar, Palatinose^™ has the physiology of a complex carbohydrate though, as it is slowly absorbed. Palatinose^™ is produced by the enzymatic rearrangement of the glycosidic bond between glucose and fructose in sucrose. As a result, it has slow-release properties and is non-cariogenic. It is also 100% vegan, kosher, halal, and non-GMO.

¹Palatinose^™ helps prevent counterreactions that interrupt sleep. That is because having more balanced blood glucose levels during the night has been shown to deactivate neurons that promote the release of hormones such as adrenalin or cortisol,.
²Polysomnography (PSG) is a multi-parameter type of sleep study and a diagnostic tool in sleep medicine. Actigraphy is a non-invasive method of monitoring human rest/activity cycles.
ⁱGaylor C. M. et al (2024); Low and High Glycemic Index Drinks Differentially Affect Sleep Polysomnography and Memory Consolidation: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrition Research. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S027153172400157X?via%3Dihub (Online since 04/12/2024)
ⁱⁱGaylor C. M. et al (2024); Low and High Glycemic Index Drinks Differentially Affect Sleep Polysomnography and Memory Consolidation: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrition Research. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S027153172400157X?via%3Dihub (Online since 04/12/2024)
ⁱⁱⁱBhaskar S, Hemavathy D, Prasad S. Prevalence of chronic insomnia in adult patients and its correlation with medical comorbidities. J Family Med Prim Care. 2016 Oct-Dec;5(4):780-784. doi: 10.4103/2249-4863.201153. PMID: 28348990; PMCID: PMC5353813.
^ivThe data indicates that a time for acclimatisation at the study setup was required.

Intake of chicory root fibres significantly reduces body weight, BMI, fat mass and waist circumference

A new systematic literature review with meta-analyses, conducted by Reimer et al^I, demonstrates that chicory root fibre intake promotes a significant reduction in body weight, body mass index (BMI), fat mass, waist circumference and, to a certain extent, body fat percentage. Based on this review, there is now even stronger evidence to show that supplementation with chicory root fibre can lead to clinically meaningful reductions in body weight and other weight management parameters.

Obesity is a major risk factor for diet-related non-communicable diseases. With one in eight people in the world living with obesity and 2.5 billion adults overweight,^II weight management has become a global health priority. With this in mind, these findings are of key importance, as they demonstrate that chicory root fibre inulin and oligofructose are effective and should be incorporated into products that aim to deliver science-based, positive results.

Included in the systematic review with meta-analyses, considered the strongest methodology in the hierarchy of scientific evidence, were 32 randomised controlled trials and almost 1200 participants. The studies were selected based on an extensive literature search and review process that followed the guidelines of the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews and Interventions^III and the PRISMA standards of quality for reporting systematic reviews and meta-analyses.^IV The inclusion criteria for the studies were based on the consumption of chicory root fibre in randomised controlled trials that were designed to gauge its effect on body weight, BMI, total body fat, body fat percentage, or waist circumference in adults of all health conditions.

Body weight was the primary outcome parameter for the systematic review with meta-analyses. This was determined in 29 of the trials that involved 1184 adults, and these demonstrated that supplementation with chicory root fibre resulted in a statistically significant and clinically meaningful 2 % reduction in body weight compared with the placebo. A priori¹ subgroup analysis based on chicory root fibre dose also highlighted a significant reduction in body weight at a dose of 10 g/d². In addition, the review revealed that the effectiveness of chicory root fibre on weight loss was not reduced over time, but became even more pronounced. The researchers further reported that weight loss was achieved independent of the health status of the individual.

Alongside reduced weight, chicory root fibre was shown to support reductions in BMI, fat mass and waist circumference parameters. Also, when the supplementation lasted for at least 8 weeks³, a reduction in body fat percentage was noted.

Commenting on the findings, Prof. Dr. Raylene Reimer, University of Calgary, Canada, said: “Prebiotics have been investigated for their ability to modulate the gut microbiota and affect various aspects of metabolic health. This systematic review and meta-analyses show that inulin-type fructans, specifically those derived from chicory root, beneficially impact multiple facets of body weight management. Given the positive outcomes seen across a wide range of participants, chicory root prebiotic fibre could be an important tool to help promote improved weight management.”

BENEO’s prebiotic fibres, Orafti^® Inulin and Oligofructose, are inulin-type fructans. They are natural, non-GMO, clean label prebiotic fibres that are derived from chicory root via a gentle hot water extraction method, unlike some other fibres that are artificially or chemically made. They can be used in a wide range of food and beverage applications including baby food, according to national legislations. As proven prebiotics, chicory root fibres (inulin, oligofructose) support a healthy gut microbiota and selectively promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms, such as Bifidobacteria, in the gut. Being prebiotics, they also trigger a cascade of metabolic effects, resulting in the promotion of satiety, thereby helping people to naturally reduce their food intake.

¹A priori is a term applied to knowledge considered to be true without being based on previous experience or observation.
²This value is derived from the median of the investigated studies.
³This value is derived from the median of the investigated studies.
^IReimer RA, Theis S, Zanzer YC. The effects of chicory inulin-type fructans supplementation on weight management outcomes: systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression of randomized controlled trials. Am J Clin Nutr. 2024 Sep 21:S0002- 9165(24)00751-2. doi: 10.1016/j.ajcnut.2024.09.019. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39313030.
^IIWorld Health Organization, Obesity and Oveweight, 1 March 2024, https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/obesity-and-overweight
^IIIHiggins JPT, Thomas J, Chandler J, Cumpston M, Li T, Page MJ, Welch VA, eds. Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. 2nd Edition. John Wiley & Sons: Chichester (UK). https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/book/10.1002/9781119536604#:~:text=Cochrane%20Handbook%20for%20Systematic%20Reviews%20of%20Interventions.%20Editor?msockid=19fad51910c86e391a14c18d110e6fd8
^IVPage et al. (2021) The PRISMA 2020 statement: an updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews. BMJ 372:n71. https://www.bmj.com/content/372/bmj.n71

Raffinerie Tirlemontoise, BENEO and Puratos collaborate with Belgian farmers to launch joint Climate Farming Project

Raffinerie Tirlemontoise, a beet sugar producer, BENEO, a leading manufacturer of functional ingredients, and Puratos, a global leader in bakery, patisserie, and chocolate ingredients, have joined forces to launch a pioneering Climate Farming Project. The ambitious initiative supports Belgian farmers in implementing more sustainable farming practices and promotes regenerative agricultural principles that contribute to enhancing soil health and reducing environmental impact.

Addressing climate change and ensuring resilient farming practices is crucial to meet the demands of future generations. The project partners recognise that this requires collaboration between the agricultural sector and the food industry. Empowering farmers through training and stimulating the exchange of knowledge are key components of this joint commitment.

The project is already underway and will run until 2025, involving 15 pilot farms across Belgium. Together, they will cultivate sugar beet, wheat and chicory according to various regenerative farming methods in an area equivalent to the size of more than 1,100 football fields.

Throughout the project, farmers will work on specific farming measures. This includes strategies such as reducing mineral nitrogen fertilization and pesticide use through more organic means and enhancing biodiversity by planting flower strips and hedges next to the fields. Improving the biomass of cover and catch crops that are planted after the main crop harvest will also reduce soil erosion and enhance soil fertility and biodiversity in agroecosystems. In addition, it will aim to reduce the tillage and soil work to different degrees as a measure to combat erosion. These efforts are supported by the localised application of mineral fertilisers, the use of organic fertilisers, biopesticides and the early sowing of multi-species catch crops.

At the outset, the Climate Farming Project engaged in a comprehensive diagnostic phase using a farm assessment tool called Greencard. This initial evaluation was crucial in setting measurable objectives and selecting appropriate regenerative agriculture practices, which could then be implemented in subsequent phases. The results can be used to expand these practices to other farmers working with BENEO and Raffinerie Tirlemontoise.

Fabrice Flamend, a farmer from Eghezée, Belgium, and member of the Climate Farming Project, shares his perspective: “It is clear that the agricultural sector must move towards a more regenerative approach. While there are many ideas on how to achieve this, involving farmers and their expertise from the field in these discussions is vital. We need to uncover feasible techniques where factors such as soil condition, crops, equipment and profitability can be taken into account. This is why I am excited to be part of the Climate Farming Project. It provides a platform to exchange know-how and experience between farmers, and the companies that process our crops. Through the Climate Farming Project, we can work together on solutions that will future-proof agriculture.”

Through this partnership, Raffinerie Tirlemontoise, BENEO and Puratos underscore their shared commitment to sustainable farming practices and the pursuit of innovative solutions, all while respecting the needs of farmers and future generations.

BENEO, a leading manufacturer of functional ingredients for food, feed and pharma, is pleased to announce the appointment of Olivier Roques as CEO and new member of its Executive Board of Directors at BENEO GmbH, effective from 1st June 2024.

With an engineering degree in agronomics and a Master’s degree in Business Administration, Olivier brings more than three decades of experience within the international ingredients industry to this new role. He started his career in the dairy and flavour industries, followed by more than twenty years in leadership roles in the USA and Europe at Agrana Fruit, a world leading manufacturer of fruit preparations. This included positions in sales, food safety and quality and new product development. Prior to his new role at BENEO, Olivier was positioned as CEO of Agrana Fruit Europe.

In addition to being BENEO’s new CEO, Olivier will also be responsible for overseeing all sales and marketing as BENEO’s new Chief Sales Officer, succeeding Dominic Speleers. His appointment comes at a pivotal time as BENEO’s product portfolio of plant-based functional ingredients continues to grow in diversity.

BENEO, a leading manufacturer of functional ingredients for food, feed and pharma announced the appointment of Dr Mike Eberle as the newest member of its Executive Board of Directors at BENEO GmbH, effective from 1st March 2024. In his new role, Eberle will be responsible for overseeing Operations at BENEO.

Eberle, who holds a PhD in Chemistry from the Technical University of Darmstadt, Germany, brings nearly three decades of experience within the international food and beverage sector to the new role. He started his career with positions at Unilever in both Germany and The Netherlands. Following this, he has held leadership roles in production, supply chain, logistics, and operations at leading food and drink manufacturers. Most recently, Eberle was positioned as the Chief Operations Officer at Rotkäppchen, a sparkling wine producer based in Germany.

As part of the new role at BENEO, Eberle will be responsible for Operations including production, technology, supply chain management, quality, raw material, health, safety and environmental protection, as well as sustainability. His appointment comes at a pivotal time as BENEO continues to focus on the sustainable development of its plant-based functional ingredients portfolio.

Azelis, a leading innovation service provider in the specialty chemicals and food ingredients industry, is delighted to announce its new distribution agreement with BENEO, a prominent manufacturer of functional ingredients for the food, feed, and pharmaceutical industries. Effective immediately, Azelis will be the exclusive distributor for inulin, oligofructose, scFOS, texturised wheat proteins, faba beans, Beta-glucans, meatless solutions, and specialty rice ingredients in India and the entire portfolio in Bangladesh. This new agreement strengthens Azelis’ existing and successful partnership with BENEO in EMEA.

BENEO is a leading expert in developing and producing functional ingredients derived from natural sources such as chicory roots, sugar beet, rice, and wheat. In Food & Nutrition, BENEO’s plant-based functional ingredients help improve the nutritional and technical properties of a wide variety of products, while maintaining or even improving taste or texture.

This new mandate reinforces Azelis’ offering in India and Bangladesh; this partnership completes its advanced product offering for food and beverages, including bakery, confectionery, meat, and dairy products, as well as plant-based alternatives for the latter two applications. Moreover, BENEO’s strong commitment to sustainability aligns with Azelis’ strategy to provide innovative and sustainable formulations to its customers.

Quadrupling of storage capacity at German production facility

BENEO, one of the leading manufacturers of functional ingredients, has announced a quadrupling of the storage capacity at its Offstein facility in Germany, to improve its efficiency and strengthen the company’s business contingency resilience still further. The new high-bay warehouse, which opened in February, allows for increased storage of BENEO’s crystalline functional carbohydrates Isomalt, Palatinose™ and galenIQ™. With a EUR 7.7 million investment in this fully automated facility, BENEO continues to further improve its supply chain robustness and reduces transport.

The new 25-metre-high warehouse has a storage capacity of more than 8.500 Euro pallets, and is located close to both the packaging and shipment operations at the production site in Offstein. Together with external warehouses worldwide, the addition of storage capacity in Offstein further supports BENEO’s multi-storage strategy for improved business contingency. Furthermore, transport ways are reduced as a larger proportion of functional carbohydrates is now stored on-site than in external warehouses.

In their crystalline form BENEO’s functional carbohydrates store well in humidity and temperature monitored facilities, such as the new warehouse. The fully automated high-bay facility allows for a higher proportion of direct loading and is freeing up personnel from the storage and retrieval process to be used more efficiently in other onsite activities.

The pandemic has shifted consumer views towards their health across the globe. New research results show that this pursuit for health will have an influence on the energy product market, as consumers demand healthier alternatives to boost their struggling energy levels. The survey was conducted on behalf of BENEO with 5,000 consumers across Spain, France, Germany, Poland and the UK.

Improving mental wellbeing, overall mood and physical energy levels were some of the most important health aspects that gained momentum as a result of the pandemic. According to BENEO’s research, almost 1 in 3 consumers in Europe have been juggling with feeling tired and a lack of energy during the pandemic. In order to improve energy levels, half of those surveyed said that they have been looking to food and drink products to help them make it through the day. This figure rises even more amongst younger adults (18 – 34-year-olds), with 8 out of 10 young European consumers seeking out energy-boosting products (increasing to 85 % in the UK). The demands of parenting during a pandemic have also left their mark, with 7 out of 10 European consumers with children saying they have turned to food and drink to boost their energy levels (growing to 82 % in the UK).

As well as fatigue being an increasing issue, the pandemic has also made people more aware of the fragility of health and the need to look after themselves. More than ever before, consumers are making the link between their diet and their health, with 63 % making an increased effort to eat and drink healthier in the future because of the pandemic. Also, staying fit and active and having a balanced diet have been major concerns during the pandemic and 2 in 3 consumers now see a healthy diet as key to controlling their future health.

A common way of boosting energy is via energy drinks, which have a wide appeal – being consumed by parents, young adults and gamers to name but a few. However, in light of the current trends, many consumers are looking for products in these categories with healthier attributes, more natural ingredients or benefits of sustained energy. At the same time, awareness is growing amongst consumers that some types of sugar are healthier than others. Today, 1 in 2 consumers see sugars or carbohydrates that have a lower impact on blood sugar levels as enticing. Additionally, 2 in 3 consumers find BENEO’s Palatinose^™ balanced sugar appealing because it supports a healthier lifestyle and provides sustained energy. This makes a compelling argument for the continued development of healthy alternative energy boosting products.

Myriam Snaet, Head of Market Intelligence and Consumer Insights at BENEO commented: “This survey quantifies the trend we have been seeing played out throughout the pandemic. The safeguarding of mental health and physical energy has now become key to European consumers. This higher interest in health and nutrition also links itself to an increased focus on preventative health, where blood sugar management can play a role. What is particularly interesting about this study is the significant size and diversity of the target group that is more interested in claims relating to balanced blood sugar levels. With such a broad appeal for healthy lifestyles, manufacturers who incorporate the balanced sugar, Palatinose^™, into their products will be well set to make the most of this trend both today and in a post-pandemic world.”

Palatinose^™, BENEO’s alternative sugar, is fully yet slowly digested and provides full carbohydrate energy but in a balanced and sustained manner, keeping blood glucose response under control. It occurs naturally in honey and is derived from sugar that is naturally extracted from sugar beets. Being low glycaemic, Palatinose^™ enables manufacturers to create products that deliver energy in a more balanced way, while improving blood sugar management.

Healthy ingredients and label transparency are more important to consumers than ever before following the COVID-19 pandemic, concludes a new global survey commissioned by the market research company FMCG Gurus on behalf of BENEO¹.

The results show that across the globe consumers are becoming more conscious about their well-being – particularly immunity – as they question their vulnerability to disease and illness. They are also concerned about the environment and whether the virus’ impact has been intensified because of increased levels of environmental damage. As a result of these attitudinal shifts, consumers are looking to purchase food and drink products that increasingly promote well-being and sustain their energy in challenging times, whilst minimising impact on the environment.

Good for you and the environment

Environmental concerns have been heightened as a result of COVID-19. This is in part due to some consumers questioning whether issues such as air pollution have increased respiratory issues, making people more vulnerable to the disease. This concern is being translated into altered buying patterns, with 60 % of consumers now being more attentive to the impact that their food and drink has on the environment.

Increased focus on food and drink products that provide health benefits

Furthermore, the widespread effect of COVID-19 has also resulted in 64 % of consumers saying that they are now more conscious about their immune health. Even consumers who previously deemed themselves to have a good immune system are now questioning their vulnerability to disease and illness. This is having a direct impact on purchasing behaviour, with two-thirds (64 %) of consumers more interested in ingredients, or food and drink products, that provide protective or preventative health benefits. This trend is likely to continue being prevalent in the market for the foreseeable future.

Consumers want natural, sustained energy boosts

In these challenging times, consumers are also looking for ways to fight feelings of fatigue more naturally. In line with this, 34 % of consumers say that they are now more likely to seek out food and drink products that boost energy in a sustained and balanced way. Also, not surprisingly, consumers are looking to improve their mental well-being, with more than half (55 %) saying they are likely to opt for food and drink to boost their mood. However, formulation is key, as consumers look to avoid ingredients deemed detrimental to their long-term health in pursuit of a short-term energy boost. One opportunity arising from this is the appeal of slow-release, low-glycaemic carbohydrates such as Palatinose™ (isomaltulose), with 45 % of consumers believing such carbohydrates are better for their health.

Michael Hughes, Director of Insights at FMCG Gurus, comments: “The results of our latest consumer survey clearly show that beneficial ingredients and label transparency are now more important than ever before to consumers across the globe, as a result of the pandemic. People are exploring topics such as inner defence, staying fit and healthy, blood glucose control, as well as sustained energy and wanting to buy products with proven health benefits. BENEO is well equipped to help manufacturers tap into these key growth areas. The company’s prebiotic chicory root fibres and slow-release carbohydrate offer a range of scientifically proven health benefits that help support long-term health and can be communicated on pack.”

Myriam Snaet, Head of Market Intelligence and Consumer Insights at BENEO, explains: “As concern for the environment continues to gather pace, it is important that we all play our part in promoting sustainable business practices. At BENEO, we actively support sustainable farming, to encourage biodiversity and reduce water pollution and soil erosion. We valorize 100% of our raw material to minimise waste and have reduced our specific energy consumption by 50% over the past 30 years. Looking to the future, we aim to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, thanks to our recent investments into upgrading and expanding our facilities.”

¹Content based on FMCG Guru’s COVID-19 survey, July 2020. Eighteen countries surveyed in July 2020 [Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Denmark, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Poland, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, UK, USA, Vietnam] and a Country Profile survey conducted across nineteen countries in January 2020.

BENEO has announced the expansion of its chicory root fibre and rice starch ingredient portfolio with two new organic solutions. The launch of the new additions, comprising an organic waxy rice starch, Remyline O AX DR, and organic chicory root fibre, Orafti^®Organic, paves the way for BENEO to strengthen its market leading position.

Consumers worldwide are increasingly seeking out organic products, with figures showing they have become more important to 1 in 4 consumers in the last year¹ and many willing to pay a premium price for them². This rising demand has been driven by the growing consumer perception of organic products as healthy and natural, and therefore an intrinsic part of a healthier lifestyle. Organic products and ingredients are also considered a vital element for ethical and sustainable purchasing behaviour, a key trend being seen within the food and beverage industry. Around the world, there are high expectations for organic products, with a compound annual growth rate of 2 % and 2.6 % in value predicted between 2019 and 2022 in Europe and the USA respectively³, the two largest organic markets.

The addition of BENEO’s new organic waxy rice starch, Remyline O AX DR, completes the existing portfolio of rice starches with the availability of organic solutions for both regular and waxy rice starch. Launching globally from July onwards, Remyline O AX DR is the first of its kind to be brought to market, opening up new possibilities for product development. As a waxy rice starch, it contains no amylose and therefore delivers better stability and less syneresis, making it easier to maintain a stable texture throughout a product’s shelf life. Remyline O AX DR is suitable for fruit preparations, as well as meat and poultry applications. Technical trials by experts at the BENEO-Technology Center have shown positive results for these applications, as well as for improving the texture of creamy desserts and yoghurts.

Commenting on the launch of Remyline O AX DR, Marc-Etienne Denis, Commercial Managing Director Specialty Rice Ingredients at BENEO stated: “The launch of BENEO’s new organic waxy rice starch is an important milestone for us as it means we can now offer our customers organic variants for both our waxy and regular rice starches. We see great potential for this new solution, especially within meat and poultry, as consumers worldwide place special emphasis on organic products when buying meat.”

BENEO’s new Orafti®Organic, is a carefully grown and selected organic variant of its popular chicory root fibre and yet another first to market. It is regionally grown and harvested by certified organic farmers in Belgium. Inulin and oligofructose remain the only proven plant-based prebiotics available, according to ISAPP (International Scientific Association for Pro- and Prebiotics). Available to customers from September onwards, Orafti^®Organic enables manufacturers to add natural prebiotic fibres that will improve taste and texture, while also allowing for fat and sugar reduction in products across key applications such as dairy, cereals, bakery and confectionery.

¹HFI 2019
²HFI 2019
³Global Data 2019

20 % higher global volume due to capacity increase of production facility in Chile by 2022

BENEO, one of the leading manufacturers of functional ingredients, has announced a significant expansion for its chicory root fibre production facility in Chile by 2022, funded by an investment of more than 50 million Euro. The news comes following rising demand for BENEO’s chicory root fibres, inulin and oligofructose, as consumer interest in digestive health continues to grow.

Worldwide consumers are paying more attention to their digestive health and are gaining further understanding of the intrinsic link between the gut microbiome and its beneficial effect on the overall well-being. This, in turn, is leading to a rising interest in chicory root fibres from food and drink manufacturers around the globe, creating a high market demand for BENEO’s inulin and oligofructose ingredients.

Eric Neven, Commercial Managing Director at BENEO-Orafti comments: “The market demand for chicory root fibre continues to increase. In order to keep up with this rising interest, we are investing significantly into expanding our production facilities in Pemuco, Chile. With 20 % more volume, BENEO can continue to ensure reliable and consistent delivery to our customers.”

As well as expanding production capacity at the Chilean plant, the raw material sourcing will be supported by additional surface (hectares) dedicated to chicory farming in the region. The existing plant already operates using 75% renewable energy. The recent investment will enable BENEO to make yet further strides against its aim to increase the use of renewable energy over the coming years.

Inulin and oligofructose, such as those produced by BENEO, are the only plant-based proven prebiotics according to ISAPP (International Scientific Association for Pro- and Prebiotics). They have been scientifically shown to support a range of functional health benefits, including a balanced gut microbiota and a person’s overall well-being. There is a wealth of scientific evidence available (in excess of 150 high quality studies) and Orafti® Inulin even has an exclusive 13.5 EU health claim for its promotion of digestive health, which is proving successful in various countries. In fact, only recently, industry expert Julian Mellentin highlighted the potential for inulin, naming it a top ingredient for 2020 in the new New Nutrition Business report, “10 Key Trends in Food, Nutrition and Health 2020”.

Not only are BENEO’s prebiotic chicory root fibres helping to bridge the fibre gap, they are also being widely used in both food and beverages as they help to reduce fat, sugar and calories. Unlike other fibres, BENEO’s fibres are naturally derived from chicory roots via a gentle hot water extraction method and are natural, clean label and non-GMO. They are highly soluble and have a mild natural taste, allowing manufacturers to reformulate their products while keeping the same taste, body and mouthfeel as the original options.

As digestive wellness continues to trend across the globe and more consumers come to realise the impact it has on their health, this significant production expansion will ensure BENEO is well-placed to maintain efficient delivery of its high quality ingredients throughout the years to come.