IFF to open a food and beverages co-creation center in South Korea

10 Nov 2023 --- International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) is set to open its first dedicated food and beverage lab in the Gangnam neighborhood of Seoul, South Korea. The center aims to support local beverage, culinary, snack and dairy manufacturers with improved speed-to-market.

“As a leader in integrated ingredient and flavor solutions, our strategic approach enables us to co-create food and beverages that resonate with consumers. This investment underscores our commitment to ensuring that our customers can swiftly adapt to the demands of a rapidly growing market and evolving consumer preferences,” says Li Yongjing, president of Nourish, Greater Asia at IFF. 

The center will host customer co-creation design spaces and a dairy and beverages ultra-high temperature (UHT) pilot plant, allowing small-scale product pilot testing. 

The facility also features a professional culinary kitchen specializing in savory seasoning solutions for instant noodles, snacks and local sauces. 

The South Korean market 
The new lab aims to satisfy South Korean customers’ growing demand for health, wellness and functional products, such as high-protein and low- or no-sugar options that do not compromise taste and texture.The food and beverage lab aims to support local beverage, culinary, snack and dairy manufacturers with improved speed-to-market.

“This innovation center marks an exciting milestone, showcasing our dedication to pioneering innovation and enhancing accessibility for our valued customers,” says Li

According to Euromonitor data, the South Korean food and beverage market is worth US $77 billion and is projected to sustain a 4% annual growth rate from 2023 to 2026. 

IFF highlights Gen Z and Millennial consumers as a key demographic, representing 37% of the country’s population. According to research cited by the company, Gen Z, in particular, exercises significant influence in the market. It is defined by its demand for convenience and experimenting with its food purchases. 

Earlier this month, the South Korean government announced its new initiative to further boost the consumption of plant-based alternatives to meat and dairy products amid already growing demand for such products.

The company is already present in the South Korean market and is a leading supplier of xylitol, protein solutions and flavor modulation technology. 

IFF recently introduced  its “one synergistic blend” technological solution, aiming to reduce the milk content of ice cream and consequently decrease its carbon footprint by up to 30%. 

Last year, IFF opened another US-based Nourish Innovation Lab at the company’s Union Beach, New Jersey, R&D center.

By Milana Nikolova