Cargill Unveils 12 New Ingredient Prototypes at Gulfood Manufacturing

11 Nov 2014 --- Cargill’s food business in the Middle East, Turkey & North Africa (METNA) has unveiled 12 ingredient prototypes for a broad range of applications at the inaugural Gulfood Manufacturing Exhibition. The new ingredient prototypes are derived from four key trends resulting from Cargill’s food business’ rigorous research into local tastes.

Cargill commissioned an extensive survey on food taste preferences across 12 food categories in nine countries in the METNA region. Using the findings, Cargill’s Innovation Centres built concepts along four themes, which are trending in the region. Premium indulgence- due to rising income levels in the emerging markets, consumers are looking for products that fulfil their desire for high quality ingredients; health- as consumers look for healthier products, manufacturers require solutions to meet the consumers’ needs; innovation- by developing ingredients that are unique, manufacturers have the opportunity to be first-to-market with exceptional products; and cost optimisation- this trend meets the requirement of cost efficiency without compromising on quality. 

Speaking at the exhibition, Nedim El Cheik, Commercial & Market Development Director of Cargill Foods Middle East, Turkey & North Africa, said:
 
“We help our customers stand out in the market by applying these latest trends to our ingredients which in turn are used in our clients’ products to the great satisfaction of their consumer audiences. We believe that the ingredient prototypes we have showcased today are of the highest quality and will be welcomed by our customers and by consumers in the region.” 

Three prototypes were highlighted at Cargill’s press conference at the exhibition: 

1.) Cargill’s white caramel chocolate: Combining the finest Belgian white chocolate with the taste and colour of real dairy caramel, this prototype meets consumers’ need for indulgence and also satisfies the market’s requirement for innovation. 

2.) Salad dressing with rapeseed oil: This dressing helps manufacturers achieve the best balance between cost, taste and nutrition. It is a cost effective recipe that has a longer shelf life. It is also a healthy option for consumers. 

3.) Sugarfree chewing gum: Using Stevia, the great tasting, and natural zero-calorie sweetener, this chewing gum has a crunchy coating and an enjoyable taste. The sugarfee gum has a long-lasting mint flavour, which consumers will love. 

Mr. El Cheik concluded: “We want our customers to know that we have a genuine commitment to helping them sustainably grow their businesses. Our global expertise and international application centres, coupled with a strong understanding of the local and regional market, reinforces our pledge to provide relevant and quality products that consumers will love.”