USA – Olam Food Ingredients (OFI) has announced that its spices business is entering into a strategic partnership with Agri-Neo to provide the industry’s first organically pasteurized dried onions.
OFI’s dried onions are used across a broad range of applications including pizzas, burgers, sauces, snacks, marinades and soups.
It was however not possible to certify these ingredients as organic as existing pasteurization methods often subjected the onions to radiation- a process not allowed in organic ingredient processing
Agri-Neo’s pasteurization technology, Neo-Pure™ however helps manufacturers achieve pasteurization-necessary for food safety- while observing organic processing guidelines.
According to Rob Wong, President of Agri-Neo, the tech is a patented blend of organic actives in a dedicated food safety system that eliminates pathogens such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria.
It is said to enable pasteurization without radiation, making it possible for OFI to supply organic-certified onions that also meet quality and safety standards.
“Whether our customers are seeking conventional or organic ingredients, our partnership with Agri-Neo enables us to provide these solutions as safely as possible,” CEO of OFI’s spices platform, Greg Estep said.
He added: “Ensuring that ingredients meet or exceed the highest safety standards – without harming the natural nutrition and sensory quality of the product – is part of our DNA at Olam Food Ingredients.”
OFI plans to showcase the partnership with Agri-Neo to provide organically pasteurized dried onion products at the Fall American Spice Trades Association (ASTA) event in October 2021.
Olam develops Dairy-processing in New Zealand
As part of plans to expand its presence in dairy, Olam Food Ingredients recently confirmed plans to develop a new dairy-processing facility in the North Island town of Tokoroa, New Zealand.
According to the company, the first stage of the new investment development is expected to be commissioned in Q3 of 2023, in time for New Zealand’s peak season.
This stage will involve the construction of a spray dryer facility, capable of producing high-value dairy ingredients.
The Tokoroa plant will become part of a global network that spans 20 major milk consumption markets, such as Southeast Asia, China, the Middle East, and Africa.
Naval Sabri, senior vice president of OFI Dairy, said additional facilities at Tokoroa will be added over time to expand the range of high-value ingredient products manufactured at the site, targeting key customer applications in dessert, bakery, beverage, and confectionery categories.
“This facility will complement and enhance our ability to support our global customers meet growing consumer demand for products that are natural, nutritious and delicious,” Sabri said.
“It will also help address their innovation, traceability, and sustainable sourcing requirements as New Zealand’s farming standards and high-quality milk are very well regarded.”
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