IFF targets nutrition product growth, as its Türkiye research facilities gain certification
pic: IFF
Global food and beverage solutions group, IFF, has confirmed plans to continue expansion into product ranges for nutrition-conscious consumers, including within the confectionery space, writes Neill Barston.
Its present range include a dynamic portfolio of proteins from different sources, focused on delivering taste and texture, along with sustainability benefits, as well as a series of natural flavours with its Flavorfit technology.
The company has also delivered fibre-based ranges including its Litesse solutions offering functionality for healthy weight management in formats like powders, beverages, bars and gummies.
“We believe IFF technologies and expertise in nutrition science are best positioned to co-create with our customers to offer new products and formulations that win in the marketplace and help consumers achieve and maintain a healthy and sustainable lifestyle,” said Erik Fyrwald, IFF chief executive officer. “Consumers increasingly want nutritious choices that fit their weight management journeys but offer the best quality and flavour.”
Social listening research by IFF shows that conversations around developing a healthier relationship with food grew by 242 percent in the U.S, while conversations about mindful eating grew by 190 percent globally in the last year.
Further results have shown that conversations related to anti-obesity medications (AOMs) have increased in volume by 48 percent but decreased in sentiment by 11 percent, suggesting that consumers are interested but less receptive to the idea of taking AOMs. Meanwhile, the number of consumers trying to consume protein is rising rapidly – from 59 percent in 2022 to 71 percent in 2024.
Innovation centre success
In a further major development for the business, its Creation and Design Centre in Türkiye has been officially recognised as a key innovation facility by the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Industry and Technology.
As the business noted, this has underlined its commitment to accelerate innovation and reinforces its position as a key player in the region, backed by significant product development.
Türkiye has a large and sophisticated food and beverage manufacturing sector. With almost 20 percent of its GDP provided by the food and beverage industry, it plays a key role in the country’s growing economy and is preparing for further expansion.
“This certification marks a significant milestone in our journey toward accelerated innovation,” said Armand Engelen, regional creation & design director, AMETI* at IFF. “For our customers, this accreditation significantly streamlines their application process which means faster access to our innovative solutions, helping them to bring new products to market swiftly. It’s a seal of trust that inspires us to raise the bar even higher in quality and service as we collaborate with our valued customers and research partners.”
Located in Gebze and close to Istanbul, the Türkiye Creation and Design Center provides end-to-end support to Turkish food and beverage manufacturers. It is supported by a team of 29 application scientists and houses state-of-the art facilities such as dedicated labs for beverages, bakery, confectionery, meat and snacks, an analytical lab and pilot plants, supporting customers from conceptualisation to commercialisation. It also boasts a culinary kitchen that emulates professional settings for food preparation.
The certification has driven several new projects for the company including collaborations with universities and research organisations, as well as its customer base around the world.
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