April 2024 was packed with significant developments and compelling trends within the food industry. Here you will find the ten most-read articles of the month. Topics range from innovative product developments and critical EU decisions affecting product standards, to technological advances transforming the industry.
8 April | Enkco, a subsidiary of Van Loon Group, in collaboration with Olijck Foods, will supply products that are partly made of meat and partly of plant-based ingredients, with seaweed playing a major role. Arnold Burger, Commercial Director Foodservice at Enkco, discusses why he sees potential in a market for hybrid products.
8 April | The desire was to professionalize the work environment. The result is a renovated production location, now antibacterial and hygienic. A smart renovation approach has turned dreams into reality for the meat processing company Henri van de Bilt in Beuningen. Their collaboration with Jack-it Sealwise is enabling them to fulfill their future ambitions.
8 April | At the Belgian company Mona Lisa Studio, a subsidiary of Barry Callebaut, a wide variety of chocolate decorations are sent out daily. While the company provides custom-made products, there was an internal need for standardization. A new version of the ERP system form Aptean offers a solution.
8 April 2024 | The innovation climate in the Netherlands is under pressure. This is the main conclusion of the Dutch Innovation Monitor 2023. Many companies are suffering from macro-economic disruptions and are delaying investments in innovation. However, there are plenty of opportunities. Henk Volberda (University of Amsterdam), Arry Verhage (Aeres MBO) en Lisanne van Oosterhoud (Next Tech Food Factories) share their insights.
16 April | Following financial difficulties and market challenges, Ladessa, renowned for its filet américain and spreads, is set to embark on a new chapter under the aegis of The Spreadmaker.
26 April | The European Commission has decided to ban the use of smoke flavours in food products. This decision was approved by the member states on April 24. The ban extends the approval of eight smoke flavours which, after a transition period, will no longer be allowed for use within the EU. This decision has far-reaching implications for the food industry.
3 April | Ameco took a huge step toward sustainability with a successful relocation of their new sustainable cooling system the end of March in Apeldoorn. A strategic, efficient project, finished in just one weekend. A truly spectacular operation.
22 April | The European Parliament is about to vote on significant new legislation affecting the agricultural sector, particularly in the area of seeds and plant materials. This could have major implications for the availability of vegetable and fruit varieties in Dutch supermarkets.
2 April | Dutch consumers continue to favour meat and dairy, as recent research indicates. Wageningen Economic Research conducted the first Protein Monitor on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality (LNV). The government's objective is clear: by 2030, the consumption of plant-based and animal proteins should be balanced. But are we on the right track?
11 April | Digital developments are rapid and bring efficiency. But what technological innovations do food companies need to confidently face the future? How do they know which solution fits their company best and can also ensure product quality? Hans de Wit (DNA Services), Bram de Vrught and Will Uijting (QING), Jan Buit (Staubli) and Joris Kolff (Aptean) respond.
Source: Vakblad Voedingsindustrie