Arjuna sets sights on Europe and US for shelf-life extender growth

16-Nov-2017 - Last updated on 17-Nov-2017 at 01:23 GMT

The range is suitable for use in baked goods, beverages, meats and sauces.

Indian supplier Arjuna says it is "aggressively expanding" its base in the US and Europe for its clean-label shelf-life extending ingredients.

The company is perhaps best known for its curcumin supplement ingredient BCM-95, but branched out into natural shelf-life extending products almost two years ago.

It opened a new food technology division at its Cochin R&D facilities in the south of India's Kerala State to serve food and beverage companies, in addition to its established nutraceutical clients.

Executive director Antony Kunjachan said that sales were now starting to filter through, especially in the meat and juice sectors.

He explained that the sales cycle in the natural food protection segment takes a little longer than any other sector.

"The reason why is usually food manufacturers prefer to have both real time stability study and accelerated stability study of food products with natural ingredients."

Global demand

"The food ingredients that require one-year shelf life need one year to complete the study. which invariably leads to (a) longer time to confirm upon the right choice of ingredients and formulations, and sales closure."

He said Thailand was offering the most growth in Asia, but that the firm was also focusing on Europe and the US for long-term sales success.

"There is an increasing demand globally for natural products especially in the food and nutrition industry," he added.

"Consumers worldwide are looking for clean label products, switching from synthetic alternatives with a clear understanding that consuming food with chemical additives can do harm to their health, especially with prolonged usage."

Arjuna's natural antimicrobial system is made from a combination of natural anti-fungal and anti-bacterial components isolated from spices, herbs and bacteriocins. They are targeted specifically to address the spoilage issue in fresh foods and beverages, and to improve shelf life naturally.

Benny Antony, joint managing director for Arjuna said at the time of the launch: "Millennials especially are actively seeking safe foods without artificial ingredients. New product developers can help ensure success by focusing on clean labels.

"Consumers want natural, healthy products and our mission is to make it happen, and at the same time, to guarantee food safety.”