Frutarom Health BU presented new Incaberrix superberry ingredient formulations for confectionary products at Fi Europe, Paris, Dec. 1-3. Incaberrix is an all-natural ingredient sourced from Inca golden berries, the ancient Andean physalis fruit (Physalis peruviana). It combines superfruit health benefits with an exotic sweet and sour flavor that is trending up, according to the company.
 
Incaberrix is particularly rich in B-complex vitamins, protein and minerals. It also is high in vitamin C and carotenoids. This potent nutrient adds health benefits, combined with an exotic flavor, and has piqued the curiosity of confectionary and beverages companies in the past four months. Unique prototypes were sampled at the Frutarom Health booth at Fi Europe, including gummies with natural mixed berry flavor and natural colors from Frutarom Peru.
 
“Incaberrix is an exciting natural ingredient,” says Yannick Capelle, product manager for Frutarom Health. “We see a rapidly growing interest from the market, not only from beverage producers, but also from food supplement and confectionary companies seeking new, natural ingredients rich in phytonutrients. Incaberrix meets the increasing demand for natural ingredients, specifically for natural sources of minerals and vitamins.”
 
According to new global product launch activity tracked by Innova Market Insights, the use of superfruit flavors in confectionery increased by 13% from 2013 to 2014. In the confectionery category, superfruit flavors were most prevalent in sugar confectionery (22.5%), gummies/jellies (19.7%), hard candy (17.6%), and chocolate blocks (16.8%).
 
“Stability during processing and throughout shelf life is one of the main issues the food industry faces when using natural ingredients,” explained Capelle. “Formulation challenges can involve stability to pH, light, and, temperature as well as oxidative degradation and interactions with other ingredients. Frutarom has overcome these problems using its patented EFLA HyperPure technology, and also has improved the raw material selection. The company now obtains extracts with much higher solubility, increasing versatility and flavor and enhancing clean label application.”
 
For more information: www.frutaromhealth.com/incaberrix