Today’s consumer displays a high level of mindfulness about personal wellbeing and the environment. This trend is the main catalyst driving companies to produce, package and label responsible food and beverage (F&B) products. Better for you claims saw four in 10 US and UK consumers increase consumption of healthy food, while seven in 10 requested greater clarity in ingredient listings. This, coupled to ethical claims on packaging, are top of mind; increasing market penetration from 42 per cent in 2012 to 49 per cent, this year alone. The shift is being felt in South Africa too – attested by new product launches incorporating these developments.
These advances were very evident at Anuga 2017, where the notion of “closing the circle” is also taking hold. Greater consumer expectation is that companies and brands be resources-mart through developments such as tip-to-tail eating, innovative uses for food waste as well as biodegradable and renewable packaging. Pavilions featuring novel and natural ingredients, different protein sources and local products reported brisk trade. Turn to page 10 for some key take outs from the event.
This month Food Review investigates the relationship between technology and ingredients in gummy candy manufacturing (page 12). As one of the most versatile confections on the market, industry must find and implement newer, smarter and more versatile gummy processing technologies. Sugar confectionery had the highest per capital consumption in the South African
confectionery sector in 2016 and is expected to reach R2 600.4 million by 2021. We also look at the importance of gelatine’s gelling power or bloom value on page 16.
Sew Eurodrive’s Movigear drive system is particularly suited to the industry. With dual demands of high hygiene levels and energy saving, the technology is ideal for applications where downtime must be limited. Find out more on page 22 now. We also look at the requirements for hygienic and operation safety in the industry. Gemü offers a range of control valves (page 32) for small volume dosing, offering dual advantages of cleanability and controllability.
Beverage Review explores some options in lighter and healthier ready-to-drink beverage ingredients. Lightness in terms of sweetness and flavour is increasing in appeal, although not at the expense of a familiar, high quality and indulgent taste profile. Page 38 has the scoop on some of Sensient Flavours’ latest innovations.
Cape Town-based Redfern and Long Run Labels in Johannesburg have merged. Turn to page 46 of Packaging Review for the full story as well as a review on the Propak Cape event held recently.
As we enter the holiday spirit, I would like to wish all our readers and advertisers a happy, healthy and safe festive season. I look forward to seeing you all in 2018!
