Partner in food solutions since 1955: A stable force

From breadcrumbs and breadcrumb blends, coating solutions, and flavor solutions to functional blends: DKB Foodsolutions develops complete solutions for food manufacturers. And has been doing so for seventy years. With a focus on flexibility, long-term partnerships, and working alongside customers to build products and innovations for the future.

DKB Foodsolutions is celebrating its seventieth anniversary. Since 1955, the family-owned company has grown into an organization with nearly 130 employees, entirely through its own efforts and without acquisitions. Erik van den Brink, co-owner and Chief Commercial Officer, and Michiel van der Kaaden, Director of Innovation & Product Development at DKB Foodsolutions, speak enthusiastically about the company’s journey.

According to Erik, the company’s strong foundation has everything to do with its long-term vision. “We think in generations. The third generation, Bjorn Dokter, joined the company in 2020 and has been our CEO since January 1, 2026. As a family business, you look at growth and continuity differently; you want to be able to pass on a stable company to future generations.”

Growth over the past seventy years has always been gradual, Michiel explains. “Organic growth—not because it has to happen, but because it fits the company. That allows you to build something that lasts.” Despite that growth, the company culture has remained unchanged. “You don’t have to pretend to be someone you’re not here. You can simply be yourself,” he says. “We’re all pretty down-to-earth people. That creates a direct connection with our customers.” “That’s the practical mindset of the Veluwe region,” Erik adds. “A deal is a deal. That’s why many of our customers have been working with us for decades.”

Combining systems

DKB Foodsolutions operates under two brands: ECS Paneermeelindustrie and MasterMix. ECS focuses on breadcrumbs, while MasterMix specializes in coatings, taste products, and functional blends.

According to Michiel, it is precisely this combination that makes the difference. “We increasingly focus on the question: what does the customer need? For example, when building the right coating system. We don’t look at a single component in isolation, but at the complete system surrounding a product. We provide customers with a total solution. If a customer needs a breadcrumb product from ECS along with a binding product, spice blend, or glaze from MasterMix, we can combine those elements into one solution that performs well on the final product.”

The integration of these systems creates flexibility. “Our systems are designed to work together. Customers no longer need to switch between multiple suppliers. Not only is that more efficient, but it also provides peace of mind. We can rely on our own systems, which allows us to respond more quickly and make adjustments more easily. Of course, combinations with other subsystem solutions are also possible.”

More than products

DKB Foodsolutions’ approach goes beyond product development alone. Erik explains: “Customers can conduct tests here. We also support production line trials. So we don’t just sell a product—we make sure it performs properly on the production line as well.”

According to Michiel, this is where significant gains can be achieved. “When machinery is properly adjusted, you can have a tremendous impact on the final product. We regularly identify opportunities for improvement in that area.”

Developing together

Innovation plays a major role at DKB Foodsolutions. To stay on top of new developments, employees attend international innovation shows and trade fairs. “We were recently in Canada to look at current trends and applications,” Michiel says.

And what did they find there?

“Everything has to be HOT!” the two men laugh in unison. “Ghost peppers, habaneros, spicy flavors combined with honey or garlic. Strong flavor experiences are what it’s all about in the coming years.”

Current themes such as the protein transition receive plenty of attention. The company is also exploring applications involving protein and fiber, and participates in international projects focused on crispiness. Erik explains: “We share new ideas with our customers during the DKB Foodsolutions Inspiration Days. We invite them for tours, presentations, and tastings. Together, we brainstorm new applications.”

According to Michiel, that is exactly where new insights emerge. “In that kind of setting, you quickly hear what customers are working on, and together you can think through solutions and new concepts.”

Maintaining focus

Looking ahead, DKB Foodsolutions will continue building on what it does best: complete coating solutions.

“From adhesion to the final layer that delivers flavor and crispiness,” says Michiel.

“These solutions are used across a wide range of products: fish, meat, poultry, vegetarian products, vegetables, hybrid products, and potato products,” Erik adds. “Essentially, anything that can be coated.”

The company’s ambition remains unchanged.

“We will continue to grow steadily as an independent family business,” says Erik. “Taking good care of customers, delivering quality, remaining flexible, and thinking in complete solutions. Growth will follow naturally.”

Michiel concludes by emphasizing the importance of staying focused. “That is what makes the company a stable force. As long as customers know exactly what they can come to DKB Foodsolutions for, we will remain relevant.”

www.dkbfoodsolutions.com