SOUTH AFRICA – German flavour and fragrance manufacturer, Symrise has entered into a special partnership with South African white grapefruit supplier Klaus Böcker to undertake technological advancement into the production line of white grapefruit of the Nkwaleni Processors factory in the KwaZulu-Natal province.
The technological advancement which includes its patented SymTrap technology, will enable the upcycling of side streams that would otherwise go to waste, turning these aroma materials into signature taste solutions.
This approach will enable Symrise to improve its environmental footprint and also to expand its citrus range with further unique taste profiles.
According to Symrise, it also intends to invest in long-term partnerships with local farmers, ensuring to achieve best agricultural practices and good yields, delivering high quality products while supporting local families.
South Africa cultivates many different citrus fruits such as oranges, mandarins, lemons and grapefruits. Its province KwaZulu-Natal is becoming increasingly important for the stable supply of white grapefruits and their unique taste.
Symrise has recognized this growth potential and wants to engage in the region, first in the targeted development of agricultural know-how, second in exciting qualified young talents about agricultural professions, in a journey to support South Africa’s efforts in building economic stability.
“Thanks to the factory in South Africa, we gained access to citrus fruit of the highest quality and can guarantee stable supply of the taste to our customers and consumers,” says Stephan Raeker, Global Competence Director Citrus at Symrise.
“To secure this valuable raw material, we invest locally in technology and work towards including training as well. This shall help create a perspective for current farmers and the next generation.”
“Also, we are extending our sustainable citrus footprint and add white grapefruit to our extensive citrus portfolio,” he added.
Symrise commits to sustainability in other areas as well. Most of the company’s South African partners are certified according to the Global GAP and Sustainability Initiative of South Africa (SIZA) sustainability standards.
Going further, they work with beekeepers in the KwaZulu-Natal province, because the insects pollinate valuable flowers and thus contribute to conserving the wealth of nature. This not only helps biodiversity but also ensures optimum fruit yield.
“With our sustainable investments, we are helping people in South Africa to earn their own living,” says Raeker. “This is how we are investing in the future of the region, which will in turn contribute to securing the future supply of high-quality signature taste citrus fruits.”
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