TATE & LYLE PLC

Shen Siung Wong , Director of Global Applications at Tate & Lyle , enlightens us on the development of the plant-based sector

Brands are attuned to the needs and preferences of their consumers , and they want exceptional plant-based products on the shelf to support their evolving lifestyles . However , fundamentally , consumers are looking to have their basic needs met from a food quality perspective , such as the taste , ‘ mouthfeel ’, and nutritional value of a product .

The challenge that brands take on to meet these demands is also in part driven by global shortages of animalderived commodities exacerbated by events like COVID-19 and the supply chain disruptions that followed , as well as the need for affordability in inflationary economies .

So , companies are looking to innovate while meeting the needs of consumers and managing costs , which is where Tate & Lyle supports customers in their efforts . Through its research and development , it helps businesses navigate the plant-based trend , while becoming more resilient to global supply chain shifts .

“ With spiralling inflation hitting many economies worldwide , cost optimisation projects with customers are increasing as brands try to minimise price increases for consumers . There are also availability challenges , such as the low supply of eggs caused by avian flu in countries ranging from the US and UK to France and Japan . Often a plant-based ingredient solution can meet consumers ’ expectations at a lower cost while still delivering an extraordinary endproduct ,” says Shen Siung Wong , Director of Global Applications at Tate & Lyle .

“ For the plant-based sector , the focus now needs to be on brand differentiation , perfecting those sensory attributes , and enhancing nutrition to encourage more

44 June 2023