Food & lngredients International March 2025

ISSN 2149-2611

www.foodingredientsmag.com | MARCH 2025

The 30 th and most iconic edition

of Gulfood elegantly hosts

the global F&B industry

Inspired

by the nature

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2024

www.plantbasedfoodnews.com

salmon

Revolutionizing the food market

with plant-based

Gulfood

Manufacturing

celebrates 10 th anniversary

PRINT COPIES

8,650

+

+

DIGITAL COPIES

OVER 58,000

AT ALL MAJOR

TRADE SHOWS

Digital copies of the magazine is up at international magazine platforms such as

yumpuu, magzter and Turkcell Application.

www.plantbasedfoodnews.com

THIS

MONTH

HIGHLIGHTS

4

Color Trends 2025:

Immerse yourself

in Oterra’s vibrant

stream of colors

5

LX4000e Color

Label Printer -

New addition to LX-Series

Label Printers

6

Gulfood 2025 to celebrate

30 th Landmark Edition

14

Beyond Meat unveils

expanded line of Beyond

Steak ® , one of the fastest

growing and top selling

plant-based meat products

on the market

16

IFFA 2025:

AI, robotics and sensor

technology are raising

the industry to new heights

26

FRUIT LOGISTICA’s

innovations and insights

attract record attendance

44

FOODEX JAPAN 2025:

Asia’s largest Food and

Beverage Exhibition to be

Held in Japan This March

2025 Media Kit

FOOD INGREDIENTS INTERNATIONAL

Ayça SARIOGLU

Coordinator

ayca.sarioglu@img.com.tr

Eyes and ears

for thirty years!

It is more than a trade fair… It has been

the eyes and ears of the food and beverage

industry for three decades and looked at

the past and future of the industry and

heard all whispers, talking and shouting

about new products, trends, innovations,

novelties, networking, etc.

As we embark on another milestone year,

we are honored to present this special

Gulfood 2025 edition of Food & Ingredients

International. This year’s event is especially

significant as Gulfood celebrates 30

Editions of Shaping the Global Foodscape,

a testament to its impact on the food and

beverage industry worldwide.

As the largest fair of its kind, Gulfood

2025 brings together industry leaders,

innovators, and decision-makers from

across the globe. We are proud to say

that Food & Ingredients International

has been part of this journey for a

quarter of a century, standing at the

forefront of media excellence. Through

our longstanding presence at this leading

event, we have continuously supported

and promoted our valued customers

spanning all five continents.

From our stand at the fair, we will be

distributing complimentary copies of this

issue to exhibitors and visitors, ensuring

that our readers gain the latest insights

into market trends, innovations, and

business opportunities shaping the future

of the global food industry.

Inside this edition, you’ll find expert

analysis, exclusive interviews, and coverage

of the key topics defining the food and

beverage landscape. Our commitment

remains unwavering—to connect you

with the insights and networks that drive

success in this ever-evolving industry.

We look forward to meeting you at

Gulfood 2025 and continuing this

incredible journey together!

Publisher

Hüseyin Ferruh IŞIK

on behalf of

ISTMAG

Magazin Gazetecilik Yayıncılık

İç ve Dış Tic. Ltd. Şti.

Managing Editor (Responsible)

Mehmet SOZTUTAN

mehmet.soztutan@img.com.tr

Advisory Editor

Ali ERDEM

info@img.com.tr

International

Sales Coordinator

Ayca SARIOGLU

ayca.sarioglu@img.com.tr

+90 212 454 22 33

Technical Manager

Tayfun AYDIN

tayfun.aydin@img.com.tr

Advisory Graphics & Design

Hakan SOZTUTAN

hakan.soztutan@img.com.tr

Digital Assets Manager

Emre YENER

emre.yener@img.com.tr

Subscription

sales@img.com.tr

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foodturkeymagazine

foodturkeymag

foodingredientsturkeymag

Food Ingredients International

Food & Ingredients International

3. – 8. 5. 2025

Frankfurt, Almanya

Rethinking

meat and

proteins

info@turkey.

messefrankfurt.com

Tel.: +90-216-384

50 50

Her adımda verimlilik –

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Siz de parçası olun!

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Color Trends

2025:

Immerse

yourself

in Oterra’s

vibrant

stream

of colors

Oterra, one of the leading producers of natural colors and color solutions,

has introduced its Color Trends 2025 to inspire brands, marketers, R&D

teams, and consultants to harness the power of color like never before.

The trends blend Oterra’s natural color expertise,

the company’s proprietary insights, input from

trusted market partners, and inspiration from

diverse global sources.

“We eat with our eyes first,” says Global Head

of Marketing for Oterra Vibeke Haislund. “Color

shapes how we think a food or drink taste. But

how does natural color tap into the big mega

trends today like digitalization, personalization,

health and wellness, and sustainability?

“Oterra has identified four trends that bring together

these overarching mega trends, natural colors, and

consumer preferences to create expertly curated

color palettes that offer a visual guide to bring

captivating food and beverage concepts to life.”

Four trends shaping the future

Oterra’s Color Trends 2025 showcases multiple

ways to incorporate natural color into food and

beverage products, to deliver inspiration across

categories that resonate with consumer desires.

Each trend offers a unique way to captivate

consumers and enhance brand storytelling:

• Beyond green:

More than a promise: consumers want action.

This trend highlights environmental and social

causes with a focus on authenticity and measurable

impact. While green is the global color of

sustainability, Oterra suggests color palettes of

Earth tones, Straw yellow and Sky blue to promote

a broader, more diverse approach.

• Out of the blue:

Rules are meant to be broken. Bold, unexpected

color combinations challenge convention, delivering

surprises that delight consumers and spark curiosity.

How about Peculiar purple, Mystic Magenta or

Radical green to wow more adventurous consumers?

• True colors:

A spectrum of wellness. Functional, better-for-you

products that nourish the body and uplift the mind,

with personalization that not only meets health

needs but also elevates consumers’ emotional

experience. Strong emotional colors such as

Powerful red, Sunny yellow or Cozy brown can

match consumers’ moods and lifestyles.

• Natural reality:

Technology meets nature. AI has the power

to reimagine possibilities, from novel flavor

combinations to groundbreaking product ideas.

But it’s the richness and authenticity of real food

that brings these visions to life.

“We’ve created Color Trends 2025 to empower

our customers to create and revitalize their

products with confidence,” said Stella Munhoz,

Marketing Manager at Oterra. “This isn’t just about

colors—it’s about storytelling, innovation, and

creating meaningful connections with consumers.”

4 FOOD & INGREDIENTS INTERNATIONAL MARCH 2025

LX4000e Color Label Printer -

New addition to LX-Series Label Printers

DTM Print, international OEM and solution

provider for specialty printing systems, introduces

the new LX4000e Color Label Printer. It is the

latest addition to the well-known LX-Series of

inkjet colour label printers.

Manufactured by Primera Technology, Inc., this new

desktop printer is equipped with the proven and

reliable print engine that is used in previous LX-

Series models including the LX910e and LX3000e

Color Label Printer. The LX4000e features large,

individual ink tanks and a reusable thermal inkjet

printhead. Print quality is exceptional with native

1200 dpi resolution with a maximum print resolution

of 1200 dpi x 4800 dpi. Labels up to 210 mm

(8.25”) wide and 610 mm (24”) long can be printed.

Print speed is up to 114 mm (4.5”) per second.

Each CMY tank holds 60 ml of ink, and the preprimed,

reusable printheads contain another 42

ml, totalling 222 ml of ink right from the start.

Both dye and pigment models are available as

separate SKUs. Replacement ink tanks are easy to

install and self-priming.

The Big Ink system on the LX4000e uses dye and

pigment inks optimised for brightness, durability

and optical density. Its process black ink offers

deep, rich tones that provide superior contrast and

sharpness, setting a new standard in its printer

class. Compared to carbon black inks used in

other colour label printers, process black delivers

several key advantages: better water and chemicals

resistance, greater compatibility with a wider

variety of speciality label media, and enhanced

Next generation of desktop

label printers offers

low costs per label with

exceptional print quality and

unmatched efficiency.

resistance to smearing, ensuring labels remain crisp

and legible under various environmental conditions.

New ClearView Ink Tanks

The LX4000e also features Primera’s innovative

ClearView ink tank system, which allows users to

monitor ink levels effortlessly without ever needing

to open the printer’s cover. With ClearView,

you can easily gauge when ink replenishment is

required just by glancing at the external, clear ink

tanks, providing a faster and more convenient way

to ensure that the printing process runs smoothly.

This convenient new feature reduces downtime,

ensures maximum productivity and gives users

more control over their printing operations.

ClearView ink tanks are an ideal solution for

businesses focused on efficiency and convenience.

Engineered for high-volume printing of up to 7,500

labels per day, this printer also delivers notable cost

efficiencies for users with lower printing demands.

Its sturdy powder-coated steel cover and all-steel

frame ensure reliable protection in diverse settings

such as offices, warehouses and factories.

The LX4000e is compatible with Windows 10/11+

and the latest macOS operating systems. It features

data interfaces including Ethernet and USB 2.0

wired ports. Additionally, Windows users can

access wireless connectivity using an affordable

Ethernet to Wireless adapter.

“We’re happy to unveil the LX4000e, a powerful

desktop colour label printer,” says Lea König,

Product Manager for Labelling Solutions at DTM

Print. “For businesses requiring large quantities

of labels without sacrificing print quality and at a

minimal cost per label, the LX4000e stands out

as an excellent option.”

DTM Print offers great benefits with all its

products such as free label design software for

Windows (BarTender UltraLite DTM Edition and

NiceLabel Free DTM Edition) and Mac (Swift

Publisher), three years warranty, support and

service through local partners, and a large variety

of approved label substrates under the brand

‘Genuine DTM Label Stock’.

Pricing and Availability

The LX4000e Color Label Printer is priced at €

3,595 (MSRP) and available from DTM Print or

through authorised DTM Print partners in Europe,

Middle East and Africa in February of 2025.

DTM Print offers customers a three-year warranty

for LX4000e units within the EU, UK and EFTA

countries after registering the product on the

company website (register.dtm-print.eu).

MARCH 2025

FOOD & INGREDIENTS INTERNATIONAL

5

Gulfood 2025

to celebrate

30 th Landmark

Edition

Centred on creating

actionable solutions for the

global food trade industry.

Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) celebrates the

return of Gulfood for its momentous 30th edition

running from 17 - 21 February 2025. Under the

theme ‘The Next Frontier in Food,’ the event

promises invaluable market foresight into the

futuristic era of global food commerce and the

resilient progress of international food systems.

Gulfood will set the stage for cross-industry

knowledge transfer and networking opportunities,

creating a framework for establishing and

achieving future goals for the global trade

community. The economic impact of Gulfood is

significant, with estimated trade deals across the

5 days reaching USD 20 Billion, representing 1%

of global food and beverage trade.

As the largest edition to date, Gulfood 2025

will display more than 1 million products from

over 5,500 exhibitors spanning 129 countries

featuring large multinationals to start-up food

ventures. Visitors can explore 24 enormous

exhibition halls covering over 1.3 million square

feet while interacting with companies launching

new products, ingredients, and flavours,

showcasing their culinary expertise and engaging

in commercial trade deals. Pavilions will also

exhibit including the USA, France, Brazil, UK,

India, Singapore, Japan and Australia, as well

as first-time exhibiting companies from Kosovo,

Madagascar, Mauritius and Zambia.

Mega event continues to

act as a pivotal catalyst for

empowering global crossindustry

collaboration and

trade partnerships.

“Building upon Dubai and the UAE’s testament of

extraordinary transformation and achieving global

epi-centre status, Gulfood’s similar evolution over

30 years has cemented its footprint in the global

F&B space as the premier stage for industry

professionals to connect, engage in trade deals,

and establish the food trends of tomorrow. The

landmark edition will spotlight the UAE’s role

as a hub of international food innovation and

trade, while honouring advocates and visionaries

who paved the show’s way forward as a platform


that fosters commercial opportunities, global

economic contribution, and ignites life-long

business partnerships,” commented Trixie

LohMirmand, Executive Vice President, Dubai

World Trade Centre.

THE GLOBAL F&B TRADING

COMMUNITY’S PLAYGROUND

By uniting global leaders, fuelling trade

partnerships, and inspiring forward-thinking,

Gulfood is the definitive platform for redefining

food innovation and trade growth worldwide.

It will host a diverse list of international food

and beverage industry giants including ABIEC –

(Brazilian Beef Exporter’s Association), Agthia

Group, Al Ain Farms, Alokozay, Al Rawabi,

Americana, Choithrams, Dilmah Ceylon Tea,

Hayel Saeed Anam & Co., Hype Drinks, IFFCO,

Japan Meat & Livestock, JBS, Lactalis, Saputo,

Savenica Fromage & Dairy, Seara Food Europe

Holding, TATA International Ltd., Tilda, US

Meat Export Federation and Wilmar.

MARCH 2025


7

Visitors can engage in Gulfood Discovery Tours -

a line-up of curated sector-themed tours offering

an immersive experience highlighting global food

trends and innovations on the show floor, along

with expert guidance and insights at every stop.

This includes dedicated tours on various food

themes like ‘Gourmet,’ ‘Alternative Proteins and

Plant Based,’ ‘Digitalisation & Traceability’ and

‘Made in the Emirates’.

EXCLUSIVE INSIGHTS FROM

VISIONARIES DRIVING GLOBAL FOOD

STRATEGIES

Gulfood 2025 will launch the inaugural Food500

Summit, welcoming global F&B leaders and

decision-makers including CEOs, Heads of State,

trade officials, investors, academia, scientists, tech

innovators and more under one roof to discuss

key issues on international trade, investment

strategies, trends, growth opportunities, AI

driven transformation, legislation, environmental

concerns, health and wellbeing and the

socioeconomic challenges impacting global food

security. Confirmed speakers include: H.E. Ms.

Piret Hartman, Minister of Agriculture and Food

Production of the Republic of Estonia; H.E. Dr.

Obaid Saif Hamad Al Zaabi, The Chairman

of Board, The Arab Authority for Agricultural

Investment and Development (AAAID); Geeta

Sethi, Advisor and Global Lead for Food Systems,

World Bank; Dr. Edwini Kessie, Director of the

Agriculture and Commodities Division, World Trade

Organization (WTO); Alvyn Severien – CEO of

microalgae-based Algama Foods and many more.


TOP GLOBAL CHEFS AND DINING

EXPERIENCES LOOK TO THE FUTURE OF

GASTRONOMY

The popular Top Table programme, sponsored by

the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO),

returns with the theme “Culinary Futurism,”

offering insights into the next decade of food.

Gulfood celebrates its 30th edition by welcoming

world-renowned chef and culinary legend Alain

Ducasse, making his first-ever appearance with an

impressive 21 Michelin stars to his name. The lineup

also features celebrated chefs such as Romain

Meder, Ana Roš, Ángel León, Fredrik Berselius,

and many more. Dubai World Cuisine features

homegrown chefs collaborating with global

culinary superstars to host a series of exclusive

city-wide four- and six-hands dinners, reinforcing

Dubai’s identity as a global gastronomy hub. With

exclusive venue partnerships, attendees can access

special offers available only with a Gulfood ticket.

MARCH 2025


9

Upcoming

AUCTIONS

26 FEB - BAKERY & CAKES

FOOD MACHINERY 2000 is a professional,

friendly, family run business that specialises in

the supply of low cost top-quality second- hand

food processing and packaging equipment by

AUCTION or outright purchase.

WHAT WE DO

We buy and sell machinery in the UK as well as

internationally. We often purchase single items,

complete lines and entire factories giving us an

extensive and diverse range of food processing

and packaging machinery to cater to your

individual needs.

Food Machinery 2000 specialise in different types

of equipment within the food industry. Including

but not limited to: bowl cutters, fillers, dicers,

mincer/grinders, metal detectors, flow wrappers,

mixers, tumblers, cookers, injectors, VFFS

machines, battering/crumbing/frying equipment,

complete lines, packaging machines, depositors,

hoists, refrigeration plant, spiral freezers, tanks,

check weighers, conveyors, handling equipment,

ancillary items and much more.

If you are considering selling your equipment and

would like more information, Please contact our

professional and friendly staff who are happy to

help with any questions you may have. Or you

can send across a list and photographs of the

equipment to sue@fm2000.co.uk and one of our

staff will get back to you. We do buy equipment

from photographs so please send them across and

let us see what we can do for you.

Scan QR code

to view Auction

REGISTER NOW

19 MAR - READY MEALS FACTORY

Scan QR code

to view Auction

REGISTER NOW

26 MAR - MEAT & FISH PROCESSING

Scan QR code

to view Auction

For further details please contact:

Food Machinery 2000 Limited.UK

Telephone: + 44 UK (0)1373 831 373

Website: www.foodmachinery2000.com

sue@fm2000.co.uk | jack@fm2000.co.uk

14 MAY - DESSERT LINES

REGISTER NOW

WE ARE AT THE GULFOOD SHOW!

CALL OR MEET UP

Sue Kelly mobile: +44 (0)7834 760202

Jack Kelly mobile: +44 (0)7736 241569

REUSE, RECYCLE & REDUCE WASTE

FOR A BETTER FUTURE

Scan QR code

to view Auction

REGISTER NOW

Ends 12 MARCH

IMPORTANT AUCTION

BRAND NEW EQUIPMENT INSTALLED 2024

Only running for 6 months

CALL OR MEET UP AT

THE GULFOOD SHOW

.

Sue Kelly

+ 44 (0)7834 760202

£5.5M ICE CREAM PLANT

Jack Kelly

+ 44 (0)7736 241569

£2.5M GEA AMMONIA PLANT

EQUIPMENT IN AUCTION

Tetra Pak ice cream plant. Silo. Glass vacuum

mixers. 300 litre Joni kettle. Sugar intake

system. Spiral freezer. Conveyors. Proseal GT2.

Complete palletising system. Jacob White

fully automatic boxing machine. Steam Boiler.

GEA ammonia plant. Hot Water boilers. Pallet

racking. Tanks. Automatic case loading and

box closing machine. Metal detector. Lazy

Susan. UV sanitising tunnel. X-ray machine.

Labelling machine. Inkjet printers. Scales.

Case tapers. Tote bins. Tables. changing room

facilities plus much, much more ...

Tel: + 44 UK (0) 1373 831373

SCAN THE QR CODE

TO VIEW AUCTION

& REGISTER

Bébé Foodie launches

first customizable baby food

journey app supporting

all feeding methods for

a guilt-free weaning experience

Expert-led and developed with pediatricians, allergists,

nutritionists, and chefs, Bébé Foodie offers an adaptive feeding

journey that addresses key feeding topics such as allergies and

age-appropriate servings, embraces diverse food preferences, and

empowers parents with flexibility and confidence.

Bébé Foodie, the first fully customizable and

adaptive app supporting diverse food preferences

at every stage of the baby’s food journey,

announces its launch to help parents start the

New Year with clarity and confidence in their

feeding decisions. By making feeding a holistic

and guilt-free experience, the app is bringing

joy and flexibility back to the baby-weaning


process. This comes at a time when the

overwhelming amount of information and

debate surrounding the “right way” to parent

has reached an all-time high, leading to 70%

of parents feeling stressed about introducing

solids and 9 out of 10 US parents feeling

judged in their feeding choices. For today’s

busy parents, balancing schedules while

sifting through conflicting advice can be

exhausting, making the need for smart,

practical solutions more important than ever.

THE ART OF

INNOVATION

IPACK-IMA MILAN

27 - 30 MAY 2025

FIERA MILANO - ITALY

“As a working mom, I’ve felt the pressure

of navigating feeding choices and the

judgment that follows. I created Bébé Foodie

to simplify baby nutrition, so parents can

stop second-guessing, feel confident and

supported, and enjoy the experience with

ease,” says Bébé Foodie founder Lucie

Thomé, a Certified Nutrition Consultant

and mom of two. Unlike other leading apps,

Bébé Foodie was created with vetted experts

such as pediatricians, allergists, lactation

consultants, nutritionists, and chefs.

Why It’s Different

Bébé Foodie is the most advanced and

inclusive baby food app, offering flexibility

for any family’s lifestyle. Whether parents

prefer purées, baby-led weaning, or a hybrid

approach, the app seamlessly adjusts as

schedules and preferences evolve.

The custom dashboard evolves with your

baby, providing clear, actionable steps for

introducing new foods. Its allergen timeline,

developed by a pediatric allergist and based

on the latest research showing that early

introduction to allergens can greatly reduce

food allergy risk, helps parents introduce all

top allergens before age 1. The built-in food

tracker logs reactions and preferences, making

it simple to monitor your baby’s progress.

With 200+ recipes and 150+ foods, the app

provides daily suggestions, meal plans, and

filters for quick recipe searches. Combined

with stage-specific tips, texture guidance, and

expert-backed insights, Bébé Foodie simplifies

the feeding journey, empowering parents to

enjoy mealtime with confidence and ease.

Currently focused on the first 12 months,

Bébé Foodie plans to expand its offerings to

include toddler feeding for ages 18 months

to 3 years and beyond. Launching on iOS

with memberships starting at $7.50/month,

the app will soon introduce enhanced

personalization, advanced tracking tools,

and AI-powered features like recipe

suggestions based on available ingredients

and real-time feeding support.

THE ART OF INNOVATION

IS IPACK-IMA.

A full-immersion journey through the

most cutting-edge process and

packaging materials

and solutions: from Food,

with the focus on Grain- Based Food

and Fresh & Convenience,

to Liquid Food & Beverages

to Pharma & Chemicals.

Here, creativity and technology

meld to mould the industry.

JOIN US AND EXPERIENCE

THE FUTURE OF INNOVATION!

IPACK-IMA OFFERS YOU

ONE FREE ENTRY

SCAN THE QR CODE

AND PRE-REGISTER

ON THE WEBSITE

www.ipackima.com

A JOINT VENTURE BETWEEN:

FOLLOW US:

Available in two flavorful varieties, bold and bright

Beyond Steak Chimichurri and tangy and sweet Beyond Steak

Korean BBQ-Style, the expanded line offers the same juicy, tender,

meaty taste as the original Beyond Steak now pre-seasoned.

Beyond Meat unveils expanded

line of Beyond Steak ® ,

one of the fastest growing and

top selling plant-based

meat products on the market (1)

Made from clean and simple plant-based ingredients, the new heart-healthy 2

steak offerings boast 20g of protein per serving with just 1g of saturated fat and

no cholesterol, and are certified by the American Heart Association’s Heart-Check

program and the American Diabetes Association’s Better Choices for Life program.


Beyond Meat, Inc. (NASDAQ: BYND), a leader in

plant-based meat, today announced an expanded

line of Beyond Steak, one of the fastest growing

and top selling plant-based meat products on the

market, 3 at Sprouts Farmers Market stores coast

to coast. The new line of pre-seasoned steak

tips is available in two craveable flavors, Beyond

Steak Chimichurri and Beyond Steak Korean

BBQ-Style, is a good source of protein, is low in

saturated fat, and meets the nutrition criteria of

leading health organizations.

Designed to deliver the juicy, tender bite of seared

steak tips in a pre-seasoned format for added

convenience, the new varieties are not only

delicious and easy to prepare but also boast a

strong nutritional profile with 20g of clean plantbased

protein, just 1g of saturated fat per serving,

and no cholesterol. Beyond Steak Chimichurri

and Beyond Steak Korean BBQ-Style are hearthealthy

4 plant-based steak offerings that meet the

rigorous nutrition criteria of the American Heart

Association’s Heart-Check program and the Better

Choices for Life Program of the American Diabetes

Association and are Non-GMO Project verified.

“The original Beyond Steak was a game-changing

product, which has been praised for its tender

bite, 5 juiciness, 6 and flavor. 7 It is one of the top

selling plant-based meat products on the market. 8

For those who enjoy the meaty taste and texture

of steak but wish to cut down on saturated fat and

cholesterol in their diet, we are thrilled to introduce

two new delicious, convenient and heart-healthy 9

varieties of Beyond Steak,” said Drew Lufkin,

Senior Vice President of Sales, Beyond Meat.

The debut of the expanded line of Beyond Steak

follows the launch in U.S. retail of Beyond Meat’s

newly renovated and craveworthy Beyond Burger,

Beyond Beef and Beyond Sausage (Beyond IV),

now made with avocado oil which is high in hearthealthy

monounsaturated fats. 10 The company

also recently introduced the flavor-forward

Beyond Sun Sausage line, a clean protein option

made from wholesome plant-based ingredients

and certified by the American Heart Association’s

Heart-Check program and the American Diabetes

Association’s Better Choices for Life program.

1

SPINS 52w ENDING 12/31/23 & 12/31/24 TOTAL MULO+NEC DOLLAR & UNIT SALES

(COMPARING Y2Y CHANGE IN TOTAL DOLLAR & UNIT SALES GROWTH OVER 2023 & 2024)

2

Diets low in saturated fat and cholesterol, and as low as possible in trans fat, may reduce the risk of heart disease.

3



4


5

https://www.fastcompany.com/90799052/beyond-meat-steak-tips-beef-new

6

Results of Beyond Meat Steak Tips Central Location Test involving 90 consumers, data on file

7

https://people.com/people-food-awards-2023-the-66-best-foods-of-the-year-7551004

8



9


10

https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/fats/monounsaturated-fats

MARCH 2025


15

The meat and protein processing industry is facing major challenges. Pressure

on prices, a wide range of products and the ongoing shortage of skilled labour

call for efficient working practices if the industry is to remain competitive

globally. Increasing automation and innovative technologies such as artificial

intelligence and robotics represent potential solutions: they can boost

productivity and cut operating costs. Under the motto ‘Maximum Performance’,

the world’s leading trade fair for the meat and protein processing industry,

IFFA - Technology for Meat and Alternative Proteins, will show what is already

possible and demonstrate the course the industry needs to take in the future.

IFFA 2025:

AI, robotics and sensor

technology are raising

the industry to new heights

Automation is the name of the game in many

branches of industry: it not only improves the

performance of machines and systems but also

helps avoid production interruptions and save

energy and materials. In the food industry, for

example, automatic product control and traceability

is virtually mandatory to ensure a consistently high

level of quality and meet strict legal requirements. It

is also an ideal tool for tackling challenges such as

rising costs and the shortage of skilled labour.


Process automation in the meat and protein

industry ranges from raw material preparation

with mixing and grinding, via processing with

portioning, filling and moulding, as well as thermal

processes such as cooking and cooling, to automatic

packaging and intelligent logistics. In many cases,

however, the various process stages and production

lines are not networked with each other, meaning

that data exchange is impossible and cannot be used

to optimise the various processes. Fortunately, there

is a remedy because web-based process control

systems such as MES and ERP often consist of

modular software systems that can be retrofitted to

existing installations. Thus, the advantages of a fully

networked smart factory are not just the preserve of

new production facilities.

The foundation of many automatic processes is

real-time data collection and analysis. Modern

sensors supply precise information regarding

temperature, humidity, weight and pressure. For

example, temperature and humidity sensors in

cold stores are used to prevent the temperature

rising and thus avoid the risk of contamination.

Weight sensors check the weight of each individual

meat product and ensure that the packaging is

in line with specifications. This not only reduces

the amount of material used but also minimises

waste and the return rate. Another example is

sensors for monitoring the gas composition in

packaging, which ensures the desired conditions

are maintained at all times.

AI speeds up and improves processing

In common with many other industries, the

introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) is also

transforming the meat and protein industry and

taking it to a new level by enabling machines not

only to collect data from the various stages of

production but also to analyse and deduce potential

improvements from it. In the event of disruptions

in the production process, AI can identify causeand-effect

relationships and thus rectify problems

without stopping the production process or prevent

them occurring in the future. This not only boosts

efficiency but also means higher levels of certainty

for both consumers and companies.

Industrial image recognition and processing is

also based on AI models that have been trained

MARCH 2025


17

for the application in question. For example, it

is used to sort meat products in accordance with

specific criteria, such as size, shape and structure.

This reduces the employee’s workload at the same

time as increasing precision. If used to identify

quality criteria, such as grain or fat content, it can

significantly increase the selling price of individual

items. AI-aided image processing systems are also

employed in quality assurance. Using historical

image data, they are trained to inspect the entire

production process in real time and detect any

irregularities such as colour anomalies, foreign

objects or defective packaging.

Predictive maintenance is another area of application.

AI-aided systems monitor machine status and predict

downtimes so that maintenance work is only carried

out when required. According to a McKinsey study,

predictive maintenance in the food industry can

reduce maintenance costs by as much as 30 percent

and increase plant utilisation by 20 percent.

Machine learning lifts robotics to a new level

of development

Today, industrial robots are an established feature

in the food industry, especially in larger companies.

Operating around the clock, they can bring about

considerable gains in efficiency and productivity.

However, the dividing line between conventional

machines and those with integrated robot technology

is not clear cut. It can be said, however, that industrial

robots are mainly used to perform repetitive tasks,

such as those typically found in the meat processing

industry, for example cutting, portioning, packing,

wrapping, sorting, picking and placing.

AI is also taking robotics to a new level of

development. Generative AI can use machine

learning to adapt independently to new

circumstances and situations, thus enabling

industrial robots to act more autonomously and

agilely. A good example of this is autonomous

mobile robots (AMR). Equipped with cameras

and sensors, they can independently assess and

analyse their surroundings. For instance, they look

for new paths when obstacles block the planned

route and act independently in abnormal situations.

Accordingly, they are perfect helpers in unstructured

production settings, as well as in warehouses or

logistics centres where packaging and palletising

are involved. Despite the multitude of items in such

distribution centres, AI-aided industrial robots can

select and retrieve the right articles, reject faulty or

deformed ones and also detect packaging formats

and weights. Such robots achieve pick rates of 750

to 1,400 items per hour and can, for example, pack

up to 200 meat products per minute – a significant

increase in productivity compared to manual

processes. Robots are also superior to their human

colleagues in terms of precision, e.g., they can cut

meat faster and more precisely at a very specific

cutting angle, as well as portion by weight and ideal

shape, which not only speeds up the production

rate but also minimises raw-material waste.

Multifunctional robotic work cells hold out the

promise of an enormous increase in flexibility and

are set to replace traditional line production in

the meat industry, too. For example, using AI, the

robotic work cell can independently process pork

sides in a series of operations, which are carried out

all at once instead of a series of small operations.

Thus, different products can be processed in

parallel, enabling an optimum product mix without

the restrictions of line production. At the same time,

the robotic work cells form autonomous networks

with the AMRs, which react independently when

faced with changing requirements.

AI, robotics and sensor technology boost

performance and accelerate the pace of change

The meat and protein processing industry is on

the cusp of radical change, driven by the use of

new technologies such as AI, robotics and sensor

technology. These technologies are not only an

opportunity to automate processes and increase

efficiency but also to enhance product quality and

sustainability. Companies that integrate these

technologies at an early stage are well prepared to

ensure their competitiveness on the global market and

meet the increasing challenges of tomorrow’s world.

IFFA - Technology for Meat and Alternative Proteins

- presents the latest technological developments in

Frankfurt am Main from 3 to 8 May 2025.


Solina acquires U.S. based

Sokol Custom Food Ingredients

Solina acquired U.S. based

Sokol Custom Food Ingredients

(“Sokol”), further expanding

its presence in North America.

This is on the heels of Solina’s

December 2024 acquisition

of Advanced Food Systems,

Inc. (AFS), as the company

continues to take a leading role

in the region’s food industry.

“Leveraging Sokol’s sweet sauce

capabilities will round out and enhance

our offerings,” said Michael Marks,

President, Solina USA, adding, “This

acquisition reinforces our commitment

to savoury sauce solutions while also

pursuing the sweet sector, as we focus

on being the leading ‘one stop shop’ for

liquid flavour solutions for our customers.”

Sokol is located near Solina’s Bolingbrook,

IL site, continuing to build the company’s

central distribution point in the Midwest.

This is Solina’s fourth acquisition in the U.S.,

following Asenzya in 2021, Saratoga Food

Specialties in 2022, and AFS in 2024. Solina will

now have five sites in the U.S.: California, Illinois

(2), Nevada, and New Jersey.

Located in Countryside, Illinois, Sokol supplies

custom savoury and sweet sauce solutions for

the food manufacturing, retail, and foodservice

channels. The acquisition will enhance Solina

USA’s sweet sauce capabilities, increase capacity

and scale, further strengthen its resilient supply

chain, and drive growth.

“Sokol’s business is very complementary to Solina

USA’s business, and it also brings a new specialization

in sweet sauces to complement our expertise in

savoury,” said Anthony Francheterre, Global CEO

of Solina. “Like Solina USA, Sokol is a value-added

partner to its customers through a unique blend of

manufacturing capabilities, innovation, and ideation,

led by a culinary driven R&D Team.”

Mark Duffy, Regional CEO, Solina North America,

and Michael Marks will lead the integration

process, and during this time, Sokol management

will provide day-to-day leadership to their team.

“We are pleased to join Solina,” said Shawn

Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer, Sokol Custom

Food Ingredients. “Solina is the ideal partner to

further accelerate the growth opportunities of our

talented people, our important customers, and

our overall business strategy. We look forward to

collaborating with Solina to cultivate continued and

future success at Sokol’s Countryside, IL location.”

Tim Novak, Partner at Burlington Capital

Partners and former Chairman of Sokol added,

“This represents a transformative milestone

for Sokol. As Sokol celebrates its 130-year

anniversary, we are excited to see the business

continue to thrive under Solina leadership.”

MARCH 2025


19

Pioneering Organic

Sparkling Beverages

for the Middle East -

Innovation

at Gulfood 2025


A Global Recognition

for a Revolutionary Beverage

Nimbah Botanical Elixirs is honored to be selected

as part of the prestigious ‘Sélection SIAL Innovation

Paris 2024’, recognizing our commitment to

transforming the non-alcoholic beverage market.

Our concept? Blending the rich flavors of organic

rooibos and honeybush from the sun-drenched

plains of South Africa with pure botanical

hydrosols and a touch of carbonation. The result is

a premium beverage experience that is refreshing,

sophisticated, and wellness-focused.

At Gulfood 2025, we invite you to explore a new

way of drinking-where every sip is a sensory journey.

Nimbah: A Journey Through the Senses

Our botanical elixirs are more than just drinks;

they are an invitation to well-being. We source

the finest organic rooibos and honeybush from

South Africa, where the soil and climate ensure

unparalleled quality.

Crafted in France, these ingredients are enhanced by

botanical hydrosols—steam-distilled floral waters that

intensify both aroma and flavor. This natural process

preserves the essence of each plant, creating an

experience that is both pure and refined.

Our light carbonation brings an extra touch of

refreshment, making it the perfect alternative to

sugary sodas and alcoholic beverages.

A Refined Product Line with Unique Flavors

Each Nimbah Elixir is designed to offer both

wellness and pleasure:

• Organic Sparkling Green Rooibos

with Lemongrass & Buchu

A herbal tea blend balancing the earthy tones

of green rooibos with the citrusy brightness of

lemongrass and the unique aroma of buchu. This

drink supports digestion and offers a natural

antioxidant boost.

• Organic Sparkling Rooibos

with Lavender & Rose Geranium

A soothing and floral infusion perfect for

relaxation and mindfulness. With rooibos, lavender,

and rose geranium, this elixir is a calming escape,

ideal for unwinding after a long day.

• Organic Sparkling Honeybush

with Orange Blossom & Peppermint

Naturally sweet honeybush meets the zesty citrus

of orange blossom and the cooling freshness of

peppermint. This uplifting blend revitalizes the

senses and is a perfect caffeine-free hydration

option.

Meeting Modern Consumer Expectations

Today’s consumers seek beverages that are

low-calorie, natural, and alcohol-free, without

sacrificing taste or experience.

• 100% organic, vegan, and gluten-free

• Naturally low in sugar, refreshing, and sophisticated

• Perfect for mocktails and refined drink experiences

Nimbah answers the growing demand for No &

Low Alcohol alternatives, offering a premium

beverage that is both functional and indulgent.

Nimbah: A Recognized Innovation

Being selected by the SIAL Innovation 2024 jury

reinforces our position at the forefront of beverage

innovation. By combining quality, sustainability,

and wellness, we are setting new standards for the

future of non-alcoholic drinks.

EDITION

17-21 FEB 2025

DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE

Join Us at Gulfood 2025

We invite distributors, F&B professionals, and buyers to experience our Elixirs firsthand

at the ISTMAG MAGAZIN stand in Za’abeel Concourse BM-6.

web: www.nimbah.com | e-mail: abah@nimbah.com | +33 6 03 12 60 67

Embark on a sensory journey with Nimbah.

MARCH 2025


21

It’s teatime with King Tea

Established with a strong commitment to the quality and

authenticity of tea, King Tea provides the best tea possible and

becomes the best available option for tea lovers worldwide.

King Tea is a well-known tea manufacturing

company with an emphasis on offering products

with the most incredible flavors. With extra

attention, tea is carefully picked, withered,

rolled, and fermented as part of King Tea’s

expert manufacturing processes. What makes

their tea unique is the fact that it has been

looked after and finely crafted. King Tea was

established with a strong commitment to the

quality and authenticity of tea. This is also

a significant aspect of their ideology, which

extends beyond business and views enterprise

as a kind of human service.

The company’s vision is to provide the best tea

possible and become the best available option

for tea lovers worldwide. Additionally, their

mission is to surprise people’s taste buds with a

variety of bold flavors and bright colors. Their

experienced and professional team is devoted to

helping customers reach their goals.

King Tea is the best choice

It saves time, includes premium raw material, and

preserves the authentic, taste, color, and aroma.

Premium Loose Tea

Taste of Spur: Measured to the minute details,

it’s a treat for the tea aficionado in you, again the

finest of quality assured.

Taste of Revolution: Premium quality with a

perfect taste that you have come to love with a

dash of fizz of Orange.

Taste of Pleasure: Adding the finest Cardamom

to give you a sweet pulse with the utmost quality

& sumptuous taste.

Taste of Serenity: The addition of soothing

Ginger works wonders for your senses as quality

and taste sustain perfectly.

Original Taste: Blended & preserved to

perfection, to give you a taste that satisfies.

Luxury Teabags

King Persian Saffron: Tradition meets

exoticness with Saffron the famous spice of

Kashmir itself being added.

King Kashmiri: Tradition rendered in small bags

of pure satisfaction in each dip and every sip that

you take of it.

King Persian Rose: Freshness added to the ageof-old

traditional blend, to give you a refreshing

new take to savor & enjoy.

King Green ‘Lemon-Zest’: Health comes in

tasteful small bundles, giving you the boost you

expect, every time in every drop.

For distributions / orders, please contact us at:

ritzyprivate@yahoo.com

+923164010014 | + 971555887091


“King of All Tea’s”

“Royal Pink Tea Now

In The Form Of Instant Teabags”

WE ARE AT GULFOOD DUBAI

FOR DISTRIBUTIONS PLEASE CONTECT

MOBILE : + 92 321 418 8677

WHATSAPP : + 92 316 401 0014

+ 971 55 588 7091

Contact Us: 174-F Johar Town Lahore, Pakistan | T: +92 316 401 0014 | e-mail: ritzyprivate@yahoo.com | web: mykingtea.com

Ulusoy Flour Mills, Turkey’s

55 th most successful global company

Ulusoy Un, Türkiye’nin

en başarılı 55. Global şirketi

Turkey’s leading flour

producer and exporter Ulusoy

Un has become the 55th

company to successfully

represent our country in the

international arena according

to the “Turkey’s Global 100

Index” research conducted

by Platin magazine in

cooperation with independent

market research company

IPSOS. Rising 17 places

compared to last year, Ulusoy

flour mills ranked as the 4th

company in the food sector.

Türkiye’nin lider un üreticisi ve

ihracatçısı Ulusoy Un, Platin

dergisinin bağımsız pazar

araştırma şirketi IPSOS ile birlikte

yürüttüğü “Türkiye’nin Global

100 Endeksi” araştırmasına göre

ülkemizi uluslararası arenada

başarıyla temsil eden 55. şirketi

oldu. Geçen yıla göre 17 basamak

yükselen Ulusoy Un, gıda alanında

da 4. şirket olarak listede yer aldı.

Ulusoy flour mills Chairman

of the Board of Directors

Dr. Eren Günhan Ulusoy

Ulusoy Un Yönetim Kurulu Başkanı

Dr. Eren Günhan Ulusoy

“Türkiye’nin en dinamik aylık ekonomi ve iş

dünyası dergisi” mottosuyla 26 yılı geride bırakan

Platin, ilk kez 2017 yılında gerçekleştirilen

Platin Global 100 Endeksi ile 7 senedir ülkemizi

dünyada üretim ve ihracat performanslarıyla

Celebrating 26 years with the motto ‘Turkey’s

most dynamic monthly economy and business

magazine,’ Platin has been rewarding companies

that successfully represent our country in

different sectors with their production and export


performances in the world for 7 years with the Platin

Global 100 Index, which was held for the first time

in 2017. Turkey’s Global 100 Index, conducted by

Platin magazine in collaboration with independent

market research company IPSOS, was created with

the theme of “technology integration” this year.

Turkey’s leading flour producer and exporter Ulusoy

flour mills, which ranked 72nd on last year’s list,

rose 17 places to rank 55th among Turkey’s global

companies. Ulusoy Un, which ranked 5th in the

food sector last year, became the 4th largest food

company representing Turkey in the global arena.

Ulusoy flour mills, which prepared its first

“Integrated Annual Report” in accordance with

international standards with the motto “We Create

Value for Life”, thus left behind a successful 2024

by continuing to rise in the TIM1000, ISO500,

Fortune500, Capital500, Ekonomist “Anatolia’s

500 Largest Companies” lists announced in 2024.

Making a statement on the subject, Ulusoy flour

mills Chairman of the Board of Directors Dr. Eren

Günhan Ulusoy said, “As a Group, we continue

to strengthen our leadership position in the flour

sector. In line with our vertical integration plans,

we made a rapid entry into the bakery products

sector. According to the results of independent

surveys conducted by authorized institutions of

Turkey, the fact that we raise our success bar every

year compared to the previous year in all surveys

shows that we are moving forward with the right

strategies. ‘Turkey’s Global 100 Index’ also reveals

the recognition of our brand in the global arena

and motivates us in our journey to become one of

the world’s largest food companies, which is one

of our 100th anniversary goals.”

farklı sektörlerde başarıyla temsil eden

şirketleri ödüllendiriyor. Platin dergisinin

bağımsız pazar araştırma şirketi IPSOS ile

birlikte yürüttüğü Türkiye’nin Global 100

Endeksi, bu sene “teknoloji entegrasyonu”

temasıyla oluşturuldu. Geçen yıl listenin

72. sırasında yer alan Türkiye’nin lider un

üreticisi ve ihracatçısı Ulusoy Un, listede

17 basamak birden yükselerek Türkiye’nin

global şirketleri arasında 55. sırada yer aldı.

Yine gıda sektöründe de geçtiğimiz yıl 5.

sırada yer alan Ulusoy Un, Türkiye’yi global

arenada temsil eden en büyük 4. gıda firması

oldu. “Gelecek İçin Değer Üretiyoruz”

mottosuyla uluslararası standartlara uygun

ilk “Entegre Faaliyet Raporu”nu hazırlayan

Ulusoy Un, böylece 2024 yılında açıklanan

TİM1000, İSO500, Fortune500, Capital500,

Ekonomist “Anadolu’nun En Büyük 500

Şirketi” listelerinde yükselmeye devam ederek

başarılı bir 2024 yılını geride bırakmış oldu.

Konuyla ilgili açıklama yapan Ulusoy Un

Yönetim Kurulu Başkanı Dr. Eren Günhan

Ulusoy, “Grup olarak un sektöründeki liderlik

konumumuzu güçlendirerek devam ediyoruz.

Dikey entegrasyon planlarımız doğrultusunda

unlu mamul sektörüne de hızlı giriş yaptık.

Türkiye’nin yetkili kurumları tarafından yapılan

bağımsız araştırma sonuçlarına göre tüm

araştırmalarda her sene bir önceki seneye göre

başarı çıtamızı yükseltmemiz, doğru stratejilerle

ilerlediğimizi gösteriyor. ‘Türkiye’nin Global

100 Endeksi’ de markamızın global arenadaki

bilinirliğini gözler önüne sererken 100. yıl

hedeflerimizden biri olan ‘Dünyanın en büyük

gıda firmalarından biri’ yolculuğumuzda

bizleri motive ediyor,” dedi.

MARCH 2025


25

FRUIT LOGISTICA’s

innovations and insights attract

record attendance

Berlin was the place to do business last week,

as more than 91,000 people from across

the global fruit and vegetable trade

came together for FRUIT LOGISTICA 2025.

From 5 to 7 February, the world’s leading trade

show for fresh produce attracted an even larger

number of international trade visitors and exhibitors

to its latest edition, and offered participants

three days of unrivalled marketing, networking,

innovations and insights. According to official

survey results, this year’s exhibition achieved a

new high in terms of the quality of its 67,500 trade

visitors as well as an increase in successful business.

Plus, it also secured record levels of satisfaction for

its 23,500 exhibitor representatives. In response,

the organiser Messe Berlin has immediately opened

stand bookings for FRUIT LOGISTICA 2026.

The official survey reveals a record positive response, highlighting a rise

in the quality of trade visitors and an increase in successful business

at the world’s leading trade show for the fresh fruit

and vegetable business.


Growth potential as the right people connect

Innovation was at the heart of this year’s event, as

shown by the ingenuity of companies competing for

its industry-leading Innovation Awards, or the gamechanging

technologies featured during its three-day

Startup World showcase. “People know that when

they come to FRUIT LOGISTICA, they always see

something new and meet decision-makers from

all over the world,” said Alexander Stein, director

of FRUIT LOGISTICA. And, thanks to the show’s

official partner Fruitnet, tens of thousands had the

chance to listen to hundreds of expert talks about

every aspect of the business at six stages located

around the halls. “The international fruit and

vegetable market is a hugely challenging business

to be in right now,” Stein added, “but the feedback

we had from our trade visitors and exhibitors is that

growth is possible, and the right people were here

to make that potential a reality.”

Exhibitors and trade visitors in good spirits

due to brisk business

FRUIT LOGISTICA 2025 met with a positive

response from both exhibitors and trade visitors.

According to initial trends from the exhibitor survey,

9 out of 10 respondents achieved a very good to

MARCH 2025


27

satisfactory business result at FRUIT LOGISTICA

2025 and have positive expectations for followup

business. The same number again are already

planning to take part in the next event in 2026.

According to the preliminary results of the

representative trade visitor survey, trade visitors

are also very satisfied. 94 % of respondents

reported a positive overall impression and

95 % would recommend the event to others

in their business environment. 9 out of 10 of

those polled are already planning to visit FRUIT

LOGISTICA again next year.

The high-quality audience also contributed to

the trade show’s positive results: 3 out of 4 trade

visitors make purchasing or procurement decisions

in their company. This results in extensive

business activities: more than 80 % of those

surveyed made new business contacts at FRUIT

LOGISTICA 2025, and over a third were able to

establish new contacts at the trade show itself.

Comments from exhibitors on FRUIT LOGISTICA 2025

Copyright: FRUIT LOGISTICA

Begoña García Bernal,

State Secretary for Agriculture and

Food, Spain

"I have been coming to FRUIT LOGISTICA

every year for nine years now. We support 242

companies from Spain at FRUIT LOGISTICA.

We are the leading fruit producer in the

European Union and the seventh in the world.

This sector is very important for our exports

and the Spanish economy.”

Luis Alberto Jaramillo Granja,

Minister of Production, Foreign Trade,

Investment and Fisheries of Ecuador

“FRUIT LOGISTICA is a very important

show, especially for a country with such a

strong export tradition. It is an important

forum for us to exchange ideas with customers

from different parts of the world. One of our

main objectives is to diversify our markets.

Especially in the current conditions, a broad

diversification of markets is important.”


CanJiang Ye,

Chairman of the Guangzhou Jiangnan

Food Vegetable Wholesale Market

Limited Company, China

“This is my first time at FRUIT LOGISTICA

Berlin. In China, although we are a big

country, there is no exhibition on this

scale comparable to FRUIT LOGISTICA. I

think this is a world-class show with a very

professional host”.

Prof. Dr. Senih Yazgan,

Chairman, Uludağ Fresh Fruit and

Vegetable Exporter Association

(UYMSİB), Turkey

“We have a lot of trade visitors who come for

discussions and to explore future marketing

needs for the European market. FRUIT

LOGISTICA is the best for us. I represent

all the exporters. When I ask them they all

say ‘We are so happy because we find new

customers here in Berlin’”.

Dennis Predoehl,

Commercial Director, MSC Germany

“It is very important for us to be able to meet

our customers here in person, market our

products and conclude business deals directly.

We are here with many international colleagues

who we normally only meet on business trips.”

Kai Olschner,

Global Vice President Supply Chain

Engineering, DP World, United Arab

Emirates

“This is my first visit to FRUIT LOGISTICA,

and I’m amazed by what I see. It’s overwhelming

to realise what it takes to produce fruit and

vegetables. There’s so much more to discover,

all connected to logistics and supply chains,

ensuring goods are delivered on time and in the

right quality. That’s my passion.”

MARCH 2025


29

Piedad Coscollá Toledo,

Marketing Commercial, Anecoop, Spain

“We are able to have meetings with people

from all over the world, because the whole

world is here. We sell to 74 countries and

meet a lot of them here. And the timing is

good. This trade show comes at a great time

for us, because we are starting to prepare for

our summer production in Spain.”

Aziz El Iraki,

Director APNM, Nadorcott Producers

Association of Morocco, Marocco

“We are here every year. It is important for us

because we are a producers’ association. We

represent over 350 members. We are here

to show the variety of fresh produce from

Morocco and to inform potential and existing

customers about our wide range of products”.

Christian Weseloh, Dr. Christian Weseloh,

Managing Director, Bundesvereinigung

der Erzeugerorganisationen Obst und

Gemüse (BVEO), Germany

“We are very well attended here in the

Germany Hall. It’s a great audience with

a high proportion of trade visitors. The

retail market, our customers, is also well

represented. Our verdict is overwhelmingly

positive. FRUIT LOGISTICA is where the

global fruit and vegetable industry meets.”

Thomas Jacobs,

Business Developer, Agurotech,

Netherlands

“I work with partners in Europe, North Africa

and the Middle East. As this trade show is

very international, I come across different

opportunities and see what is possible in order

to create synergies. For us as a startup it is

essential to meet growers and distributors and

other people in the industry in order to network

and find opportunities to work together.”


Norton Kelly-Boxall,

Co-Founder, Lyro Robotics, Australia

“Being here has been a great opportunity for

us, having everybody concentrated in one

place, as we are expanding into the European

market. It´s great to generate leads and meet

new people in the Startup World.”

Michiel Gabriëls,

Sales Development Representative,

Dockflow, Belgium

“Dockflow has been at FRUIT LOGISTICA

several times. We look forward to seeing what

our participation will bring over the next few

weeks. I think we have some really good leads.”

Daniel Soares,

Director International, Interfel, France

“Interfel represents around 14,000

companies, and we have 77 companies at this

pavilion at FRUIT LOGISTICA. We want to

continue to exhibit here for a very long time.

The most important thing for us is to meet

our clients and increase fruit and vegetable

business. I have to say, the quality of the

meetings is improving from year to year.”

The next FRUIT LOGISTICA

will take place in Berlin from

4 to 6 February 2026

MARCH 2025


31

iba 2025:

Focus

on strong

artisan

bakery

iba, the world’s leading

trade fair for baking and

confectionery industry will

take place in Düsseldorf

from 18 - 22 May 2025. On

over 98,000 square metres

it will showcase the global

diversity of the industry.

iba, the world’s leading trade fair for baking

and confectionery industry will take place in

Düsseldorf from 18 - 22 May 2025. On over

98,000 square metres it will showcase the global

diversity of the industry. Artisan bakery is one of

the top focus topics, with 19,000 square metres

of exhibition space dedicated to it. Whether

sustainable shop fitting ideas such as hybrid

shop concepts or mobile tiny stores or energyefficient

ovens - there are exciting new products

to discover in Halls 13 and 14.

Artisan bakery is a top priority at iba. The German

Baker’s Confederation (Zentralverband des

Deutschen Bäckerhandwerks e.V.) is the owner

of iba. It represents the interests of over 9,200

bakeries with around 240,000 employees. With a

total turnover of 17.55 billion euros, the German

baking industry is one of the most important

economic factors in Germany. „We are committed

to the strong future of the baking industry in

Germany“, says Roland Ermer, President of the

German Baker’s Confederation. As representation

of the interests, the Confederation is committed

to improving the framework conditions in the

bakery sector and promotes education and further

trainings in the sector. „Demographic change

is also leading to a shortage of skilled labour.

That’s why the issue of promoting young talent is

particularly important to me“, says Ermer.

The German Baker’s Confederation provides

information about career opportunities in the

bakery sector, develops numerous support

programmes for training companies and

promotes talents through championships.

Since January 2025, trainees have had the

opportunity to prepare for exams with the

so-called Azubi Campus (Trainee Campus):

Apprentices can consolidate and repeat their

knowledge with tutorials on the platform of the

young talent campaign ‚Bake your future‘ (Back

dir deine Zukunft). At iba, the German Baker’s

Confederation offers the Azubi Werkstatt (Trainee

Workshop) for four days, where young people

can gain unique insights into artisan bakery and

expand their knowledge.

Focus topic ‘Artisan bakery’

in the broad visitor programme

In the iba.ACADEMY in Hall 14, visitors can learn

the art of baking pretzels and obtain a certificate.


Another highlight are guided bakery tours in and

around Düsseldorf (registration online necessary).

The iba.FORUM in Hall 14

is also all about artisan bakery.

On 18 May at 11 a.m., the ‘Honorary Prize of the

German Bakery Trade’ will be awarded to around

50 outstanding artisan bakeries.

The ‘iba.UIBC Cup of Bakers’ will start on the

same day, with the award ceremony taking place a

day later on 19 May in the iba.FORUM. The award

ceremony for the ‘iba.UIBC Cup of Confectioners’

will be held on 22 May. On May 21 the ‘World

Championship of Bread Sommeliers’ will take place.

Exceptional artisan bakery requires

unusual shop concepts

Quality and functionality are combined with

design, and sustainability is an issue: renewable raw

materials such as reed, wood, bamboo or cotton are

increasingly being used. How can you counteract

the shortage of skilled labour and generate sales

even after the shops close? The solution is a hybrid

shop concept consisting of a classic bakery sales

counter with an automated sales system that is

accessible through a separate shop entrance. Baked

goods, bread and drinks are ordered via a selforder

terminal. Fancy an idea for the future? Fully

air-conditioned Tiny Stores can be used to test out

potential locations or during the reconstruction

phase of the shop premises. The mobile, fully

equipped container-based supply bakery includes a

snack preparation station, warehouse, staff room,

oven space and shop window.

Prior to iba, the new design competition ‘Bakery

of the future’ will be held on the subject of shop

fitting. Participants can submit their visions of a

bakery of the future and apply online. Deadline is

21 March 2025. The jury prize and the audience

prize for the best ideas will be announced at iba on

20 May in the iba.FORUM.

Maximum efficiency, sustainability and

durability: Oven construction

Whether crispy bread or delicious cakes - choosing

the right oven and baking technology is crucial. In

times of rising costs, energy efficiency is becoming

increasingly important: at iba in Hall 13, oven

builderss will be demonstrating how residual heat

can be utilised using a newly developed heat

recovery system. The additional benefits: shorter

baking times, better dough development and crust

formation. Small but powerful: in-store baking

ovens combine space efficiency with baking

quality. In-store baking ovens with intelligent Active

Steam technology, which combine the advantages

MARCH 2025


33

of tube and cascade steaming, are innovative. The

steam system is characterised by short heat-up

times, optimised heat and steam distribution and

lower energy consumption.

Generating additional sales:

snacks and coffee concepts

The sale of snacks and coffee specialities is a key

sales driver in many bakeries and an important

factor in customer loyalty. Fresh snacks are also

increasingly move into focus. From pizza snacks

and regional sandwiches to hot dog variations -

visitors will find the right solutions for generating

sales with new snack ideas. How bakeries and

bakery chains can implement high-quality and

customised coffee concepts even in times of staff

shortages can be seen at iba: ‘With semi-automatic

portafilter machines, we appeal to businesses that

want the best of both worlds: top barista espresso

quality and artisan preparation paired with the

benefits of automation and technology. Smooth,

intuitive coffee preparation processes guarantee

perfect quality even at peak times and during

shift changes“, explains Axel Fähnle, Head of

Marketing, WMF Professional Coffee Machines.

Selection of highlights from

the artisan bakery sector in halls 13 and 14

The exhibitors have strong ties to the skilled crafts

sector in Germany and present the right solution

for every user. „We expect iba to expand our

professional network and help us think outside

the box. We will be demonstrating how our bread

slicing machines can be used to be at the pulse of

time in terms of hygiene, efficiency, networking

and digitalisation. Customer loyalty and service are

our top priority“, says Thorsten Müller, Managing

Director of MHS Schneidetechnik GmbH.

Jörg Ungermann, Managing Director of Wolfram

Ungermann Systemkälte GmbH & Co KG,

explains: „For iba 2025, we promise to provide a

forum for bakery customers from the north and

centre of Germany. We will be showcasing top

refrigeration topics, in particular how refrigeration

technology can automate, reduce night shifts and

improve the quality of baked goods.“

Further exhibitors in shop fitting, oven

construction and snacks and coffee sectors are

i.e.: Schmees Ladenbau GmbH, Walterscheid

Geschäftseinrichtungen GmbH, BBN Kassensystem

GmbH & Co. KG, Wiesheu GmbH, DEBAG

Deutsche Backofenbau GmbH, HEIN S.àr.l., Dedy

GmbH Konditorei- und Schokoladenmaschinen,

Franke Coffee Systems GmbH, Kövy Bäckereimaschinenbau

GmbH, CUP&CINO Kaffeesystem-

Vertrieb GmbH & Co. KG.


‘Fresh Up Your Life!’

Campaign Reaches 50 million

in the UAE, Promoting Fresh

European Produce

Concluding a successful three-year

campaign in the UAE, the ‘Fresh Up Your

Life! Top Quality European Fruit and Veg’

initiative has advanced the appreciation and

consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables,

with a special spotlight on those cultivated

in Italy. Financed by the European Union

and CSO Italy – Italy’s leading consortium

uniting top producers of fresh fruits and

vegetables – the campaign reached an

impressive audience of 50 million people

across the UAE. This outreach has

reinforced Italy’s reputation as a trusted

source of premium produce.

The campaign coincides with an 8.4

percent increase in Italian agri-food exports

to the UAE, which have now surpassed

€412 million. This growth cements Italy’s

position as one of the UAE’s leading food

suppliers, according to data available

through November 2023.

Elisa Macchi, Managing Director of

CSO Italy, said: “Flagship events such as

Gulfood have played a key role in driving

the campaign’s success. These gatherings

have provided vital platforms for business

matching, fostering valuable commercial

relationships, and showcasing the rich

culinary heritage that defines both Europe

and Italy. The campaign has sparked

growing interest in Italian products and

strengthened commercial ties between

Italian and UAE operators.”

Looking to the future, the ‘Fresh Up Your

Life!’ campaign aspires to leave a lasting

legacy. Its innovative strategy has highlighted

how collaboration, cultural exchange and

a shared passion for excellence can unlock

new opportunities for European products in

dynamic international markets like the UAE.

MARCH 2025


35

ISM New Product Showcase

Award 2025 selects

the best innovations from

the world of sweets and snacks

• Primus Wafer Paper BV,

Confiserie Vandenbulcke

and Barth Ltd. convince

the expert jury

• Award-winning products

stand for creative snacking

ideas with a focus

on sustainability

• ISM New Product Showcase

Award as a stepping stone

Innovations have always driven the sweets and snacks industry, for instance

by combining new flavours, creative ingredients and sustainable approaches.

The most creative new products were distinguished at ISM 2025,

the leading global trade fair for sweets and snacks. The award-winning

creations not only impress with their extraordinary taste experiences,

but also convince in terms of their sustainability and innovation.

An independent jury comprising of renowned

experts from the industry, trade and world of

science evaluated 110 products submitted by 65

companies. The awards were presented to the

best three innovations during a festive dinner on

Sunday, 2 February 2025. As of 3 February, the

visitors can admire the winners of the New Product

Showcase area in Lab5 by ISM (Hall 10.1).

The winners of the New Product Showcase

Award are:

Primus Wafer Paper with Yummy Super Sour

Candy Paper, Confiserie Vandenbulcke with Pulp

‘n Choc Fruity Mix, Barth Ltd. with wO’s

The top 3 of ISM 2025

1st place: Primus Wafer Paper BV (the

Netherlands) - Yummy Super Sour Candy Paper

With its Yummy Super Sour Candy Paper, Primus

Wafer Paper BV met the taste buds of the jury.


The ultra-thin, potato starch wafers melt tenderly

in the mouth whilst an intensive, surprisingly sour

taste unfolds. The aromas of apple and lemon

form a unique taste combination. The well-thought

out product development, which in addition to

its exceptional taste experience also fulfils the

demand in quality and sustainability - it is produced

in a BRC-A+ certified production site in the

Netherlands - particularly convinced the jury.

2nd place: Confiserie Vandenbulcke

(Belgium) - Pulp ‘n Choc Fruity Mix

Sustainability meets enjoyment: The Pulp ‘n Choc

Fruity Mix by Confiserie Vandenbulcke unites the

MARCH 2025


37

finest Belgian chocolate with cocoa fruit pulp,

which normally goes to waste. The filled chocolates,

refined with fruity aromas like lemon, orange and

strawberry offer a unique taste experience that

accentuates the fresh, fruity nuances of cocoa fruit.

The product not only impresses with its intensive

taste, but also through its environmentally-friendly,

plastic-free packaging. An example of sustainable

innovation and high-quality craftsmanship, which

impresses conscious sweet lovers.

3rd place: Barth Ltd. (Israel) - wO’s

With wO’s, Barth Ltd. is picking up perfectly on the

current “healthy snacking” trend: The high-fibre,

crunchy snacks made from pulses that are rich in

nutrients impress with their intensive taste, low

calories and a high share of plant-based proteins.

wO’s unite enjoyment with nutritional value and an

environmental and user-friendly presentation.

About the New Product Showcase

Since 2009 the New Product Showcase has been

the central meeting point for the most diversified

range of innovations in the sweets and snacks

industry. The special exhibition in the Lab5

by ISM in Hall 10.1 attracts trade visitors and

decision-makers from all over the globe. This year

65 companies from 21 nations presented 110

products in high-quality glass cases – a display

window of the future of and for the industry.

The award-winning products demonstrate

impressively how creativity, quality and sustainability

can be united to form incomparable enjoyment.

With their innovative power they set new impulses

and underscore the significance of ISM as a global

pacesetter for the sweets and snacks industry.

The company Planet A Foods GmbH won the

New Product Showcase Award 2024 with its

sustainable cocoa alternative ‘ChoViva’. The

young company’s participation at ISM and in

the New Product Showcase proved to be a

valuable platform for presenting its innovation

to a broad audience and establishing important

national and international contacts.


Greenfood launches

new plant-based proteins

for large-scale kitchens

The future of vegetarian proteins is nutritious, free from additives –

and Swedish. New plant-based products are now being launched,

featuring ingredients such as wheat, oats, peas, and field beans.

Behind these innovations are Swedish food industry

players Ahlströms, part of Greenfood, and SimSuFoodS.

For Swedish large-scale kitchens, Ahlströms and

SimSuFoodS are two well-known players who,

with their passion for developing sustainable,

innovative, and uncomplicated products, have

contributed to a significant shift in the Swedish

foodservice market. This shift can be seen in

everything from school kitchens and staff cafeterias

to hospitals and public institutions. The desire to

promote a more sustainable food system through

plant-based alternatives is strong.

The new products include a vegan kebab, vegan

chicken-style cubes, and vegan strips resembling

ham. Based on Swedish agricultural raw materials

like wheat, peas, and oats, these products not only

provide a welcome alternative to meat but also

support a resilient national food production system

– which in the long run strengthens the increasingly

important national food security. The products are

completely free from additives, have a low carbon

footprint, and focus ambitiously on flavor.

“Through collaboration, we can contribute to

an important shift towards a more sustainable

food system. We truly believe in the power of

working together to achieve our common goals.

In our partnership with SimSuFoodS, it’s clear

that we can accomplish great things by sharing

our knowledge with each other. We want the

same thing: to make more people choose

plant-based!” says Jacob Ahlström, CEO of

Ahlströms, owned by Greenfood.

The new products combine some of

SimSuFoodS’ most popular flavors with

Ahlströms’ expertise in food processing, and are

sold under the Ahlgood brand.

The family business Ahlströms Factory was

founded in 2010 with the ambition to raise the

quality of offerings in the vegetarian sector. Today,

the company is part of the Greenfood group,

which works to make sustainable and healthy

food more accessible. SimSuFoodS was founded

in 2019, driven by the same mission: to create

conditions for more sustainable food consumption

by simplifying the flow from Swedish agricultural

raw materials to finished meals.

MARCH 2025


39

New electric boiler takes

Arla Foods Ingredients closer

to carbon reduction goals

The new e-boiler is the company’s largest and

the first at the Danmark Protein whey processing

facility in Videbaek. It will cut annual CO2e (CO2

equivalent) emissions by an estimated 3,500 tonnes

– a figure that will rise when it is fully operational.

A shift away from gas towards electricity from

renewables is at the heart of Arla Foods Ingredients’

ambitious carbon reduction strategy. Last year,

it announced a €32 million investment in an

electric heat pump facility which is scheduled to be


operational this year. By the end of 2025, all Arla

Foods Ingredients plants in Europe are on target to

run on electricity from 100% renewable sources.

Installed in a building that previously housed a

gas turbine, the new e-boiler will be able to deliver

16-megawatts of capacity – equivalent to 8,000

household kettles – and take on the work of two gas

boilers. It will produce steam for the high-temperature

needs of the facility’s spray-drying towers, which are

used to create powdered whey ingredients.

Arla Foods Ingredients’ overall target is to reduce

Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions* from

its operations by 42% between 2015 and 2030,

although when anticipated growth is factored in,

the figure it will need to achieve is closer to 80%.

The reductions resulting from the new boiler will

account for around 5% of these efforts.

The measures being taken Arla Foods Ingredients

will contribute significantly to the climate goals

set by its parent company, the Arla Foods Group.

It is working to cut its Scope 1 and 2 emissions*

by 63% between 2015 and 2030 – a target that

has been approved by the Science Based Targets

initiative as consistent with the reductions required

to keep global warming to 1.5°C.

Arla Foods Ingredients has

taken another major step on its

CO2 reduction journey with the

installation of an electric boiler

at its largest production site.

Thomas Lauritsen, Global Sustainability Manager

at Arla Foods Ingredients, said: “The electrification

of energy-intensive processes is essential to achieve

our ambitious climate targets while also meeting the

growing demand for high-quality whey ingredients.

This is the latest initiative in our drive towards a

carbon net zero future, and a key element of our

commitment to phase out our use of natural gas

for energy production. It’s unlikely to be our last

electric boiler – we see major potential for this

technology at other powder-producing sites.”

*Scope 1 emissions relate to activities under the

company’s direct control, including emissions

from production facilities. Scope 2 emissions are

indirect emissions caused by the energy that the

company uses.

MARCH 2025


41

An immersive campaign took over Helsinki railway station

escalators and made the most of every surface. Using moving

escalators, static graphics and metallic dividers turned into

‘Next Customer’ signs, an illusion of 210 meters of checkout

belts was created, filled with revamped Valio PROfeel ® products.

Valio and TBWA\Helsinki

Surprise Commuters

in Helsinki with The World’s

Largest Checkout Belt

More than 50,000 people pass through the

escalators at the Helsinki main railway station

daily. Protein rich PROfeel ® products are often

consumed as snacks throughout the day, so

Finnish dairy product manufacturer Valio and

advertising agency TBWA\Helsinki wanted to

send health-conscious commuters a not-so-subtle

trigger for purchase.


rhythmically interrupted by ‘Next customer’

dividers to enhance the immersive experience.”

Surprise, delight and inform

The creative campaign filled numerous needs for

Valio, who have redesigned the packaging design

of the PROfeel ® product line. They both wanted to

introduce consumers to the revamped products as

well as capitalize on a key month for sales.

“The PROfeel ® product line provides a healthconscious

and delicious choice in the dairy

snacks category. This activation surprises and

grabs your attention in a fun way providing

you with a serving suggestion to put PROfeel ®

products on the checkout belt”, Emma Mikkola,

Marketing Manager at Valio, says.

With people getting back to their everyday routines

after the holiday season, and some starting new

exercise hobbies, Mikkola says January is an

important time for PROfeel ® products.

“The brief was to make sure that consumers

recognize the new PROfeel ® product design during

a key sales period as well as drive home the fun and

positive aspects that are at the core of the PROfeel ®

brand. I’m extremely happy with the way the

campaign surprises, delights and informs consumers

all at the same time!” Mikkola concludes.

According to TBWA\Helsinki’s Art Director Jere

Saulivaara, what makes the campaign special is the

way it incorporates all parts of the four escalators,

each over 50 meters long.

“It is a bespoke design to fit this space, utilizing

every available surface, including those not

used before. Using static graphics together with

moving escalators, we created the illusion of a

checkout belt filled with Valio PROfeel ® products,

MARCH 2025


43

FOODEX JAPAN 2025:

Asia’s largest Food and Beverage

Exhibition to be Held

in Japan This March

FOODEX JAPAN,

Asia’s largest food and

beverage exhibition, attracts

over 80,000 visitors

from around the world.

FOODEX JAPAN is one of Asia’s largest

food and beverage exhibitions, which attracts

over80,000 visitors from approximately 90

countries and regions and more than 13,000

overseas buyers. The exhibition is highly

regarded as an ideal venue for both exhibitors

FOODEX JAPAN 2025,

Asia’s largest food and

beverage exhibition,

will be held at Tokyo

Big Sight, Tokyo, Japan

from March 11 to 14, 2025.


and visitors to discover the latest food and

beverage products and to expand business

connections. (As of January 6, 2025).

A new “FOODEX WINE” pavilion will make

its first appearance this year, where visitors

can explore the world’s most prominent and

trending wine selections

Set to be one of the largest wine exhibition sites

in Japan, “FOODEX WINE,” will make its debut

at the Expo. This area will feature more than

450 varieties of wine, including non-alcoholic

wine, low-alcohol wine, natural wine, rosé wine,

and premium wine, all of which are trending

worldwide.

Visitors can also experience a wine concierge

service, where 50 sommeliers, including the

renowned Shinya Tasaki, will pair wines with

various cuisine.

Frozen Food that Adds Value Beyond

Convenience and Taste

Frozen food is gaining increasing attention,

not only for its ability to meet consumer needs

but also for its contribution to addressing social

challenges like reducing food loss. Today, the

category offers an incredible variety of products,

from everyday dining, health-conscious options,

and more.. At the exhibition, attendees will also

see cutting-edge machinery, including quickfreezers

showcasing remarkable technological

advancements. Visitors will have the opportunity

to rediscover the added value frozen foods offer—

going far beyond convenience and taste.

In addition, the “Frozen of Future” award

ceremony will also be held to announce the

Grand Prix winner for frozen food products

recognized for their innovative appeal and added

value, selected by approximately 100 industry

buyers and general judges.

MARCH 2025


45

Product of the year

USA unveils 2025 Award winners

Now in its 17th year in the United States and over

30 years globally, the Product of the Year seal has

become a trusted beacon for consumers, helping

them identify the best new products available

in-store and online. In a time where purchasing

decisions are driven by thoughtful choices and

budget-conscious shopping, the Product of the

Year seal empowers consumers to navigate the

marketplace with confidence. From quality and

innovation to design and functionality, these

standout products have proudly earned the

endorsement of tens of thousands of shoppers.

For the brands, this prestigious recognition offers

a unique advantage, building brand awareness and

credibility within their respective categories.

“The 2025 Product of the Year winners represent

the pinnacle of innovation, showing how brands

are addressing the evolving needs of today’s

shoppers,” said Mike Nolan, Global CEO of

Product of the Year Management. “With the

retail landscape becoming increasingly dynamic,

our winners not only set themselves apart

through innovation but also establish trust among

consumers. The Product of the Year seal serves as

both a hallmark of quality and a tool that elevates

these products above the competition.”

From food and beverage, personal care, household

essentials, pet care and more, the 42 winners of

the 2025 Product of the Year Award include:


• Bakery Side Dish | Texas Roadhouse Mini Rolls

– T. Marzetti

• Better-For-You-Snack | ALDI-Exclusive Savoritz

Cheese Crisps – ALDI Inc.

• Breakfast | Veggies Made Great Loaded

Breakfast Potato Bakes – Veggies Made Great

• Cat Care | Petivity (powered by Purina) Smart

Litter Box Monitor System – Petivity

• Cat Food | SHEBA Gravy Indulgence – Mars, Inc.

• Cheese | Organic Valley Flavor Favorites Spicy

Cheddar – Organic Valley

• Coffee | Folgers Coffee Instant Flavored Latte

Mix – The J.M. Smucker Company

• Convenience Meal | Minute Rice Cups – Riviana

Foods Inc.

• Cough & Cold | MUCINEX InstaSoothe Cough

Relief – Reckitt

• Dessert | ALDI-Exclusive Specially Selected

Premium Cookie Dough – ALDI Inc.

• Dip Snack | Castello Whipped Dips – Castello

Cheese

• Dog Food | Supreme Source Premium Mix-Ins –

American Pet Nutrition

• Dog Treat | Supreme Source Savory Jerky Cuts

– American Pet Nutrition

• Frozen Entree | ALDI-Exclusive Kirkwood

Chicken Nuggets – ALDI Inc.

• Fruit Snack | ALDI-Exclusive Simply Nature

Chocolate Covered Frozen Dried Fruit – ALDI Inc.

• Gluten Free | New York Bakery Gluten Free

Texas Toast – T. Marzetti

Product of the Year USA, the

nation’s largest consumervoted

awards program

dedicated to recognizing

product innovation, has

announced the winners of

the 2025 Product of the Year

Awards. Spanning 42 diverse

categories, these winning

products were selected based

on the opinions of 40,000

American shoppers through

an independent national

study conducted by Kantar, a

leading global research firm.

• Healthy Beverage | ALDI-Exclusive Summit

Popz Prebiotic Sodas – ALDI Inc.

• Home Solutions | TAMKO StormFighter FLEX

– TAMKO Building Products LLC.

• Household Cleaning Essential | The Pink

Stuff, The Miracle Cleaning Paste – GSD

Distribution LLC.

• Immediate Relief | PBZ OTC – Kingsway

Pharmaceuticals

• Immunity | AIRBORNE Effervescent Tablets

-Reckitt

• Meal Ingredient | ALDI-Exclusive Park Street

Deli Pickle Chips – ALDI Inc.

•-Ply Paper Towels – Georgia-Pacific

• Pest Control | Hot Shot Flying Insect Trap –

Spectrum Brands

• Pet Health | NaturVet Advanced Probiotics &

Enzymes – NaturVet

• Seafood | ALDI-Exclusive Specially Selected

Snow Crab Legs – ALDI Inc.

• Spirits | American Single Malt – Bulleit Frontier

Whiskey

• Sweet Snack | Nutella B-Ready – Ferrero

• VMS | Natural Vitality CALM – Piping Rock

Health Products

• Wine | ALDI-Exclusive Specially Selected

Sparkling Brut Rose – ALDI Inc.

The 2025 winners were celebrated at the annual

Product of the Year Awards Show on February

6th at Tribeca 360 in New York City. The

evening kicked off with a red carpet followed by

live entertainment from former Saturday Night

Live cast members Rachel Dratch and Alex

Moffat, who hosted the award show and unveiled

this year’s top products. Tony Award Nominated

Actress, Betsy Wolfe, closed out the show with a

dazzling musical performance.

Alongside the winner announcement, the 2025

Product of the Year winners are currently

highlighted in a shoppable feature on PEOPLE

Online created in partnership with Dotdash

Meredith – the nation’s leading digital and print

publisher. Additionally, Ensemble IQ, a trusted

authority in business intelligence, has highlighted

the 2025 winners across its publications

including Path To Purchase, Progressive Grocer,

Store Brands, Drug Store News and Convenience

Store News, ensuring industry-wide recognition

for the most innovative products of the year in

their respective categories.

MARCH 2025


47

FDA clarifies

‘Free From’ claims

on product labels,

paving the way for

Certified Free From ®

Allergen-free declarations can now only

be made if a product is absolutely free of

an allergen, paving the way for Certified

Free From ® seals on packaged goods.

On Jan. 6, 2025, the FDA provided guidance

on the use of voluntary “free-from” claims on

products, particularly when indicating the absence

of major allergens.

According to the FDA, a product can only use an

allergen-free claim if it truly does not contain the

named allergen, including any unintended traces

from cross-contact. The FDA also states that a

product claiming to be “free-from” should not

include an advisory statement for the same allergen.

For example, a product labeled “milk-free” should

not also have a “may contain milk” statement.

With this statement, the FDA is looking to clear

up labeling confusion for consumer packaged

goods (CPG).

“What this means for CPGs is they now must back

up their statements through third-party validation

of allergen-free claims. This is much like what we

saw a decade ago with the gluten-free industry

providing more transparency into what goes into

their products, thus opening the door to more

consumer trust,” said Betsy Craig, founder and

CEO of MenuTrinfo ® .

Based on a 2024 study conducted by FARE, 85

million Americans seek out products that are free

from at least one of the Major 9 allergens.

“For brands, adding a seal that holds as much

credibility as Certified Free From makes their

product a no-brainer purchase for these consumers

who seek out goods and dining facilities that have

achieved certification,” Craig said. “This is especially

true for CPG foods that are manufactured at times

in a shared environment. Testing to confirm the

free from status to achieve a Free-From certification

delivers confidence to the consumer and means

assurance for the CPG brand.“

Since 2017, MenuTrinfo has been providing

Certified Free From ® (CFF) seals to consumerpackaged

brands and manufacturers looking to

validate their products as free from anywhere from

one to all nine of the major allergens.

In 2022, the MenuTrinfo CFF program was

recognized by the American National Standards

Institute (ANSI) National Accreditation Board

(ANAB) as meeting the rigorous International

Standards Organization (ISO) 17065 standards for

certification bodies. They are the first certification

of their kind to reach this level of accreditation.

“We are 100% aligned with FDA regulations and

strategically poised to support brands ready to add

the CFF seal to their products,” Craig said. “Our seal

helps to ensure strict compliance with FDA standards

through rigorous audits and testing, it also boosts

consumer trust and significantly reduces the volume

of ingredient-related inquiries to manufacturers. Not to

mention it eliminates the potential threat of product

recalls and lawsuits. It’s a win-win for everyone—

brands, consumers and the industry as a whole.”

The FDA now clearly states that food and

household products that claim to be free from

one or more allergens must:

Not contain that allergen as either a direct or

indirect ingredient; and

Not pose any risk of cross-contact with an allergen

during the manufacturing process.

Additionally, in their Jan. 6, statement, the FDA

outlined robust standards and requirements for

food manufacturers, which will:

A. Ensure that “allergen-free” truly means

allergen-free;

B. Support any validated allergen-free claims

made by manufacturers;

C. Open the door for more validation and

verification through third-party auditing and testing;

D. Build consumer trust around Certified Free

From seals on packaged goods.

“This is the perfect time for brands to jump on

board and add the CFF seal to their product

packaging,” Craig said. “It also will help the

manufacturing community because verifying and

substantiating claims through our audit process will

help reduce allergen-related recalls in their facilities.

Our scheme brings allergen safety even further

down the winning path and provides a more robust

backbone to the products brands want to certify.”


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and the future of food. In 2025, it becomes the

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Food & lngredients International March 2025

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