Cargill is exhibiting at this year’s Food Ingredients China (FIC 2021) event and has taken the opportunity to present its insights into the food market in the form of the 2021 TrendTracker report.
The report has identified four prevailing macro trends, which include the desires for more holistic, proactive approaches to health, products which align with consumer values, products which offer more entertaining and exciting experiences, and services which help make life easier while ensuring well-being.
The company’s TrendTracker also discusses 10 food and beverage trends that are relevant for businesses. Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, increased health and safety concerns have given rise to a more holistic approach to nutrition and wellness, including increased consumption of foods related to functional, immunity & mental wellness. Both premium and affordable products are expected to see greater opportunities in the marketplace as a result of value polarisation. In addition, the report suggests “refreshing experiences and enhanced convenience” are also key to winning over consumers grappling with the impact of the pandemic.
In response to these identified trends, Cargill is showcasing 18 prototypes and 25 ingredients at FIC, including a functional yoghurt, which is low sugar and features pea protein and the company’s Epicor postbiotics. It’s also showing a sugar-, calorie- and fat-free drink containing Lactobacillus, crispy chocolate-coated yoghurt cubes and a chocolate blueberry brownie, made using the company’s Gerken GR76 cocoa powder.
"Beyond the prototypes at FIC 2021, Cargill offers a versatile portfolio of food ingredients that can be applied to a wide range of foods and beverages, " said Jerry Liu, President of Cargill China. "Our in-depth research and continuous innovation have always been centred on one mission – enabling our customers to provide consumers with food products that better meet their ever-changing needs. We believe that it is only through strong customer partnerships that we can successfully deliver more innovative and relevant products for the China market."