Human civilization has a long history of preserving food. Long before the commercialization of foods and the growth of the global food industry, distinct natural preservation techniques were developed, including those based on plant extracts and spices. Today, adventurous and mindful consumers are driving innovation and new product development in the natural preservation space, expanding the need for natural solutions that are both safe and transparent. At the same time, there is an increasing need for companies to address more authentic and natural products while also balancing the demands for convenience and food safety.
What are the driving factors, both consumer and market trends, behind natural preservation solutions? Consumer and market trends such as health, nutrition and anti-aging are influencing innovation and NPD while demand is pushed up by consumers, especially millennials, who are well informed about the impact of their food choices, not only on their health, but also on the future of the planet.
The last decade has seen clean label move into the mainstream and manufacturers realize that synthetic ingredients and unnatural additives are no longer acceptable – natural, label-friendly ingredients with good health markers are now the order of the day.
The meat and bakery segments are showing steady growth in terms of natural preservation, while pet food is considered one of the latest categories to turn its back on synthetic ingredients.
As the food industry continues its deep transformation towards straightforward and natural ingredients while addressing the need for extended shelf life and preserving freshness and taste, it’s important that companies continue to pioneer in this space, pushing forward with sustainable solutions.
Source: Food Ingredients First
