IFF addresses global sunflower shortage with solutions targeting fryer oil stability and oxidation control

14 Jun 2022 --- In light of global shortages of sunflower oil, International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) has unveiled functional ingredients helping to reduce frying oil waste while maintaining food product quality.

The line of plant extract-based formulations and synergistic oxidation control solutions is branded as Guardian. In food and beverage product design, controlling oxidation through its functionalities can help protect a product’s freshness and stability.

“We have extensive technical data from laboratory tests and industrial trials that demonstrate effectiveness in our offerings, which we customize to fit customer needs, application and country-specific requirements,” remarks Apostolos Papageorgiou, food protection product manager, IFF.

The global food antioxidant market is projected to grow to US$1.8 billion by 2025, thanks in part to rising demand for packaged food as consumer lifestyle and preferences continue to shift, IFF outlines.

“By supporting food product quality, safety and flavor throughout their shelf lives, our food protection solutions can help reduce food waste in the supply chain. And for consumers, our solutions can help deliver fresher, more nutritious food,” says Papageorgiou.

Guardian Synerox HT can reduce frying oil waste by a minimum of 30%.Tools to address frying oil shortage
Vegetable oils have been flagged as the single biggest contributor to the higher global food import bill of US$51 billion expected to be reached in 2022, according to a recent report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

At a time when supply chain complexities exacerbated by the pandemic and war in Ukraine have reduced global availability of cooking oil and tocopherol, many food producers have been forced to search for an alternative in naturally sourced ingredients to meet high consumer demand.

Designed to support the stability and quality of frying oils, Guardian Synerox HT can reduce frying oil waste by a minimum of 30%. It provides protection demanded by sunflower oil alternatives such as rapeseed, palm and soybean, while offering greater supply stability for food producers impacted by the global sunflower oil shortage.

Green tea extract for fighting oxidation
Offering another solution, Guardian Vitagreen LOD, uses proprietary technology without a chemical-synthesis step, enabling the incorporation of water-soluble green-tea extract in oil and fat-containing applications.

The catechins in green tea extract have been known for their potential to act as an iron chelator, suppressing the pro-oxidant iron that can be released from the hemoglobin during the production of ground meat, in applications by ingredient supplier Kemin.

IFF’s new solutions are supported by rigorous testing in a wide range of applications, details the company. “Backed by science, our innovative solutions help food producers manage food oxidation and spoilage issues,” comments Papageorgiou.

Nearly 64% of consumers in the US say they choose food made with clean ingredients and 42% agree that adding preservatives is a way to help reduce food waste.

IFF’s differentiated oxidation control solutions support more than product quality and nutritional value to the customer. They can also help producers extend their usage of raw materials during production, which may result in improved operational efficiency and increased sustainability.

By Benjamin Ferrer