FI India 2024: A Roundup

I attended FI India 2024 last week, and wow, there was a lot to take in. Here are my top impressions in no particular order, just the things that grabbed my attention!

Ooh Na Na 

Salt reduction is also a hot topic, but there’s a twist – consumers hate the idea of "reduced salt" because they think it’ll taste bland. Instead, they prefer "reduced sodium." Governments are stepping in with stricter public health regulations, so expect to see more low-sodium products in stores.

Sweet, but not too sweet 

India’s ongoing battle with diabetes has made sugar reduction a key trend. Companies are offering a range of sweeteners, with monk fruit becoming the natural sweetener of choice. One supplier even hinted that nutraceuticals are fueling this growth. It’s time to swap out that sugar.

Squeaky clean

It’s all about going back to nature! Nearly every company dealing in flavors and colors made sure to highlight their "natural" status – because let’s face it, consumers are demanding all things natural these days. A few even threw in their clean label credentials for good measure. 

Going hyper-local 

Ethnic flavors are having a moment. And no, it’s not just about general Indian spices anymore. Indian consumers want hyper-local flavors, like those from specific neighborhoods. Imagine getting a taste of Mumbai, one street corner at a time! A fusion of Indian ethnic flavors with Western formats is also gaining steam.

Good gut!

If you’ve been feeling like gut health is all the rage, you’re right. Probiotics, prebiotics, dietary fibers, and even oligosaccharides were taking center stage at the show. A healthy gut might just be the key to a wealthy P&L.

Glow up

Who needs skin care products when you have food? Collagen, hyaluronic acid, and coenzyme Q10 were the beauty boosters at the show. Suppliers were boasting about everything from marine to bovine to chicken sources of collagen. You might soon find yourself sipping your way to glowing skin. Smoothie, anyone?

Eyes on the prize

Eye health is inching its way into the functional benefits category. A few companies were showcasing lutein and zeaxanthin, sourced from marigolds no less! So, don’t be surprised if your next snack promises to keep those peepers healthy.

It’s gettin’ hot in here

It’s not just a flash in the pan – products aimed at menopause are heating up the market. Mintel featured innovative products in this space, signaling that menopause care is on its way to becoming a long-term, sustainable category. This isn’t a one-hit wonder; it's a growing need being met with creative solutions.

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Protein power 

Plant-based protein was all the rage, with companies flaunting their non-GMO soy, pea, and chickpea proteins. I didn’t spot mung bean protein, but it’s apparently emerging in India, with a local twist – locally grown mung beans are becoming a focus. Not to be outdone, dairy protein  remains a powerhouse in India’s market.

Colostrum craze

Yep, colostrum made an appearance at the show! With its increasing demand, both internationally and domestically, colostrum is finding its way into protein supplements, infant formulas, and even chocolate bars. It’s like the secret ingredient you didn’t know you needed.

Moo-ving to camels and goats 

Move over bovine milk – camel and goat milk products are stepping into the spotlight. Even better, these are being sourced right from India. A little local love with a splash of exotic appeal.

Sustainability: The next big ingredient

Finally, sustainability is creeping into every conversation. Companies were proudly showing off their low-carbon footprint and the supply chain innovations they’re rolling out to reduce environmental impact. Because green is the new black, right?

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