Sustainability trends are taking the spotlight at Anuga, the most significant international trade fair for the food and beverage industry. Taking place from the seventh to 11th October in Cologne, Germany, organizers and exhibitors are predicting sustainability concerns to take the top spot in consumer preferences.
“Many manufacturers are focusing on more sustainable production and supplementing their product portfolio with plant-based products or alternative protein products,” Anuga’s director Jan Philip Hartmann told Food Ingredients First.
Consumers are becoming increasingly concerned by the industry’s environmental impact. Today, 26% of all greenhouse gas emissions are derived from food production. Half of the world’s habitable land is taken up by agriculture, which accounts for 11% of all global greenhouse gas emissions. In 2021, meat accounted for almost 60% of all greenhouse gases from food production.
Regional and local foods are additionally becoming a focal point with consumers placing sustainability and short supply chains at the top of their lists.
“By addressing ‘Sustainable Growth,’ Anuga is also placing the focus on the commitment and the solutions of the industry with regards to environmental and climate-related aspects.”
“Transparency in food production is another important aspect, as consumers increasingly demand information about origin, production conditions, and sustainability aspects,” Hartmann said. “Digitalization is also playing a role in changing the food industry by making processes more efficient and enabling innovative solutions.”
Consumers are increasingly searching for brands that address the multifaceted dimensions of sustainable growth. Israel-based Gat Foods, a fruit-solution producer, claims to have found multiple solutions that would appeal to providers, producers, and consumers.
“In addition to tailor-made beverage developments, we focus on upcycling waste streams, such as spent grains from beer brewing and citrus and grape peels, with which we develop added-value ingredients and solutions,” CEO Shachar Shaine shared. “We believe the F&B industries’ commitment to finding healthier and more sustainable solutions would benefit both the consumers and industries worldwide.”
Anuga is partnering with the UN Industrial Development Organization and the European Institute of Innovation and Technology to address transformative shifts in the market. This aims to provide a platform for in-depth discussions and innovative solutions.
“Our aim is to provide a holistic and international overview of approaches for a sustainable food system,” Hartmann explained. “By addressing ‘Sustainable Growth,’ Anuga is also placing the focus on the commitment and the solutions of the industry with regards to environmental and climate-related aspects.”
Health and wellness another main pillar at Anuga 2023
Outside of sustainability concerns, consumers are shifting towards products that emphasize health and wellness. This is especially prevalent among beverage manufacturers.
“Health and wellness is an already established trend, taking many shapes and forms in different product offerings,” said Shaine. “Sober-curious, alcohol reduction and no- or low-calories are key factors in our product development.”
While functionality is important, Hartmann stressed that taste is still a priority for consumers. Visitors will be able to experience these for themselves at Anuga 2023.
“A good overview will be provided by the exhibitors’ new products,” said Hartmann. “In addition, the Anuga Taste Innovation Show is the central place for trends and innovations where around 70 innovations await visitors.”
