An artistic representation of sustainability and circular economy in the food industry. The image features a glowing circular cycle showcasing grapes, seeds, and oil transforming into products like cooking oil bottles and cosmetics. In the background, a modern exhibition hall is depicted with people engaging in discussions and colorful product displays, reflecting innovation and collaboration in the food ingredients sector

Sustainable Food Ingredients Trends 2025

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Last month, I had the privilege of attending the Food Ingredients Europe 2024 convention in Frankfurt, Germany, where Sustainable Food Ingredients Trends 2025 were front and center. Over three days, this incredible event brought together the best and brightest in the global food ingredients industry to share innovative solutions, highlight emerging trends, and emphasize the growing importance of sustainability in shaping the future of our food systems.

Here are the key insights and lessons I took away from the event:

The Scale and Energy of the Industry

The convention was a hive of activity, spanning six floors, featuring 1,500+ exhibitors, and attracting 25,000 attendees from all over the world. It was a reminder of just how dynamic and interconnected the food ingredients sector has become.

Two features stood out to me:

    1. The Tasting Bar: A showcase of cutting-edge food and drink innovations, allowing attendees to experience the latest products firsthand.

    1. New Categories: The addition of a Pet Supply category and equipment manufacturers demonstrated how the industry is expanding into new territories.

What struck me most was the collaborative energy in the room—people from all corners of the industry coming together to share, learn, and inspire.

Key Trends That Will Shape the Future

Several themes emerged loud and clear over the three days:

1. Sustainability is Non-Negotiable

Almost every exhibitor highlighted their sustainability credentials, from certifications to tangible initiatives. The industry is clearly moving beyond greenwashing to real, measurable action.

2. Circular Economy Thinking

I was inspired by the focus on transforming food waste into valuable byproducts. This is a philosophy that resonates deeply with VinoProd, where we turn grapeseed—a byproduct of winemaking—into premium cold-pressed oil.

3. Health is a Priority

Functional foods targeting specific health benefits, like heart health and diabetes management, were everywhere. It’s clear that consumers want their food to not only taste good but also contribute to their well-being.

4. Innovation in Ingredients

From insect-based oils to plant-based alternatives, the event showcased an exciting push toward reimagining traditional ingredients.

5. The Future of Palm Oil Alternatives

With unsustainable palm oil facing a European ban in 2026/2027, I saw a growing interest in sustainable replacements. It reinforced my belief that VinoProd’s grapeseed oil is perfectly positioned to meet this demand.

How VinoProd Fits Into These Trends

Attending the event was a great reminder that VinoProd’s mission and products align with the industry’s biggest trends. Here’s how:

    • Sustainability: Our cold-pressed grapeseed oil is produced from wine byproducts, embodying circular economy principles.

    • Circularity: By utilising grape seeds that would otherwise go to waste, we’re creating value while reducing environmental impact.

    • Health Benefits: Grapeseed oil’s heart-healthy properties and antioxidant richness make it an ideal functional ingredient for consumers and manufacturers alike.

    • Palm Oil Replacement: As the world moves away from palm oil, grapeseed oil offers a sustainable, versatile alternative.

Lessons for the Industry

Reflecting on the event, I believe there are lessons for all of us in the food ingredients space:

    • Sustainability is a Differentiator: Businesses must embed sustainability into their DNA—not just for compliance, but to stay relevant in a rapidly changing market.

    • R&D Pays Off: Investing in research and development to innovate sidestreams and byproducts can unlock new revenue streams and reduce waste.

    • Cross-Sector Collaboration: The convergence of food, health, and other industries is an exciting frontier. Companies should look for ways to create multi-functional ingredients.

    • Be Seen, Be Heard: Platforms like Innovation Awards or regional pavilions offer incredible opportunities to stand out and connect with decision-makers.

Looking Ahead

Attending Food Ingredients Europe 2024 wasn’t just about learning—it was about envisioning what’s next. For VinoProd, it reinforced our position as a pioneer in sustainable, circular solutions that align with global trends.

As we look to 2025, we’re excited to continue driving innovation, exploring sidestream opportunities, and contributing to a more sustainable food ecosystem.

See you in Paris, next year at the Food Ingredients Show 2025!

Reported by Gina Miltiadou