Optimising health through science and innovation
Consumers, who now positively link health to diet, are creating demand for nutraceuticals in functional foods, beverages and dietary supplements. Such ingredients include pre-biotic and pro-biotic vitamins, minerals, fibres, proteins, omega 3 and structured lipids, amino acids and various other ingredients. In 2018, Vitafoods Asia is the key showcase and source for these ingredients, which are created from applied research and designed to be of high quality.
Some key exhibitors include KSM-66 Ashwagandha, the largest producer of Asheagandha; Sabinsa, a well-established (30 years) supplier of herbal extracts, cosmeceuticals, minerals, dietary supplements and specialty fine chemicals; and AstaReal, manufacturer of a powerful anti-ageing molecule, Natural Astaxanthin. Of the many exhibitors at Vitafoods Asia, two first time exhibitors include major US-Irish ingredients manufacturer Kerry, and Plantex, a large French manufacturer.
Spotlighting Omega-3 and Probiotics
Increased demand from China, Southeast Asia and other developing countries for Omega 3 means that the market for the most widely used nutritional lipid continues to grow as it controls inflammation. GOED estimates the market today globally is worth US$1.5 billion at the ingredient level.
Key visitor attractions to learn more about ingredients include the Omega-3 Resource Centre and a Tasting Centre on the exhibition floor. Visitors can discover what new options for Omega-3 are available on the market and even obtain an Omega-3 blood test free of charge! The International Probiotics Association (IPA) suggests that the market for probiotics is experiencing unprecedented growth and may be worth as much as US$43 billion. Probiotics are widely used to ensure proper functioning of digestive system.
To showcase the latest breakthroughs in probiotic technology, to new areas of product development and consumer analysis, the organisers of Vitafoods Asia are introducing a new resource, the Probiotic Resource Centre, for the first time in Asia.