Biopreservatives

Consumers are demanding more from their food than ever before. Health and sustainability are important considerations for food buyers, as are qualities such as reduced processing and fewer, more natural, understandable ingredients.

Keeping products fresh and appealing for longer is clearly an important focus for producers of fresh baking, dairy and beverage products. However, finding new and more natural ways to keep their portfolios fresh for longer is a significant challenge, since many artificial preservatives do not meet the expectations of modern consumers. Removing artificial preservatives is a hot topic, and biopreservatives support consumers’ demands while also improving taste.

• A third of all food is wasted.
  1.3 billion tons of food is wasted every year. In industrialized countries, more than 40% of loss happens at a retail and consumer level and research indicates that an increased shelf life of just one day could prevent up to 0.2 million tons of annual household food waste.
• Consumers clearly prefer natural preservatives.
  DSM research shows that consumers think natural preservatives are healthier, better tasting, and that they are willing to pay more for products containing natural ingredients. 
• Most consumers check expiry dates and labels.
  According to the Food & Health Survey 2016, more than 70% of consumers check expiry dates in the supermarket. This shows that, while consumers value clean-label, natural products, shelf life is also a key driver of purchasing behavior.
• Reputation matters.
  The risk of potential reputational damage means preventing bacterial contamination is top of mind for many leading brands. The online and public exposure associated with a major product recall can negatively impact revenues, stock prices and brand value.

At DSM, we recognize the challenges of naturally extending shelf life and simplifying labels. Indeed, as a partner to the world’s leading food brands, we understand this complex puzzle better than most. As part of our sustainability commitment, we leverage our deep microbiology and fermentation expertise to create solutions that help manufacturers keep their products fresh for longer, prevent spoilage and reduce food waste. With an exceptional portfolio of biopreservatives and anti-oxidants, combined with our deep knowledge of food processing, our application experts can help you find the best shelf life solution for your specific needs.

Our promise? Less spoilage. More value.