Twice a year Dutch Spices compiles an inspiration report focused on a number of applications and makes it available to its customers. The reports are for the summer/barbecue season and the winter/Christmas season. Dutch Spices then develops delicious, innovative products and concepts on the basis of the (mega-)trends that have been noted.
Dutch Spices’ Trend Team compiles the reports in collaboration with trend-watchers and stakeholders within our parent organisation. Dutch Spices is part of Bieze Food Group (BFG), a group of companies active in various segments of the food market. BFG is, in its turn, part of the German parent company, Wernsing Food Group. With and from each other we learn about trends, markets, target groups and products. The Trend Team regularly goes on trend tours and the team members are affiliated with various knowledge groups.
Twice a year our Trend Team first analyses and formulates the (mega-)trends and then prepares an inspiration and trend report for the markets within which our customers are active. The trends noted are in the areas of new food cultures, new taste combinations, clean labels, sustainability, fewer allergens, more plant-based choices, or dietary preferences such as halal.
Most of the work in the third stage – the development of new concepts and trends based on the current trends – takes place in the Research & Development Department. If new raw materials are needed the Procurement Department sets about finding the best sources (suppliers). The key selection criteria are compliance with the most stringent legislative requirements and various taste tests.
Finally our Sales Department informs our customers and presents the new concepts and taste directions to them. Customer-specific products can be especially successful, which is why we like to work together to see where there are opportunities. Thanks to this close collaboration new, unique concepts and products are being created all the time.
How is the food industry dealing with the growing need for clear information about food allergens? You can now listen to the podcast on this subject produced jointly by Food Matters Live and Dutch Spices.
In 2023 the UK’s annual Allergy Awareness Week aimed at raising awareness about allergies and offering support to sufferers is from 24 – 30 April.
Natasha’s Law requires all food outlets to provide full ingredient lists with clear allergen labelling on pre-packed food for direct sale.
The NVWA noted: 60% of the inspected retail, artisan and hospitality companies gave customers inadequate information about allergens in food and dishes.
