Danisco to Expand Polydextrose Production to Meet Fiber Demands

This investment therefore represents an opportunity for Danisco to increase its presence in the fast-growing functional fibre market, which is today valued at in excess of USD 1 billion.

3/4/2011 --- Danisco has committed to a major investment to expand production of its functional fibre, Litesse polydextrose, in response to the strength of demand for polydextrose globally. The expansion will enable the company to maintain its leading position in the world polydextrose market well into the future.

With increasingly health conscious consumers seeking food and beverage products that meet their dietary fibre needs, many food industry analysts predict annual growth rates for functional fibres to exceed the food industry average, reaching up to 10% per annum over the next five years. This investment therefore represents an opportunity for Danisco to increase its presence in the fast-growing functional fibre market, which is today valued at in excess of USD 1 billion.

Commenting on the expansion, Michael Bond, Global Business Director for Danisco’s Functional Fibres portfolio says: “Consumers are increasingly conscious of the role that diet plays in their health and wellbeing and have become acutely aware that they are not consuming adequate levels of fibre. This means consumers are now actively searching out fibre alongside other nutritional benefits, when taking responsibility for their own health, driving growth in the functional fibre market.”

Litesse is a premium, low calorie, soluble fibre and prebiotic that can improve the nutritional profiles of numerous foods and beverages through fibre enrichment, sugar reduction or replacement, calorie reduction or fat reduction. It offers tangible digestive health benefits with no toleration issues, encouraging consumer loyalty and repeat purchase.

“Litesse is a cornerstone of Danisco’s Health & Nutrition strategy – a fundamental approach to offering healthy solutions in all areas of the food industry and across health platforms,” comments Fabienne Saadane-Oaks, President Danisco BioActives.

During its 30-year history, Litesse has become internationally recognised for the premium nutritional and functional benefits it provides.

“Increasing our production capabilities for Litesse perfectly positions Danisco to build on its success to date and capture the opportunities offered by the dynamic health and nutrition market,” adds Maria Cecilia Londono, Global Vice President Fibres & Extracts.

Litesse is a highly flexible, soluble fibre and food ingredient. At only 1 kcal/g, Litesse offers significant potential for reducing calories and adding fibre without impacting the consumer appeal of the end product in terms of taste and texture. Available in liquid and powder form and with excellent process and shelf stability, Litesse has found success across all segments of the food and beverage industry, where it is recognised for its clean taste, ease of formulation and low cost in use.