FDBusiness.com

Sensient Flavors has introduced its new ‘nut free’ nut flavour product range – Almond, Hazelnut, Peanut, Pistachio and Walnut. What is different about these versatile new flavours is that they are not only natural but completely free from any nut components and deliver truly authentic taste profiles.

This combination is bang on trend with current market demands – Almond and Hazelnut are among the top 10 flavours across a huge range of food products. At the same time, according to Mintel, ‘allergen free’ is one of the top claims among food products, featuring on more than 14 per cent of global product launches. Forecasts estimate that in the UK alone, the more specific ‘free from nuts’ claim will experience 50 per cent growth by 2019. Organisations like European Federation of Allergy (EFA) are also advocating for the needs of people with allergies.

The novel line has come to life at Sensient’s Milton Keynes, UK, subsidiary. Nut flavours are characterised by their great compatibility with other flavours and, as such, they are a vital component of a wide array of products within the dairy, bakery and confectionery segments. As well as being Clean Label, it allows manufacturers to use ‘allergen free’ claims on product packaging. Using these flavours eliminates contamination on industrial lines and saves on cleaning down time. Cost-efficiency is another advantage: In contrast to potential harvest-related scarcities of raw materials, Sensient’s flavours are available all year round. Standardised quality and price is assured and most of the flavours are efficient at low dosages.

Sensient’s skill lies in its ability to create authentic flavour profiles. Its new Almond flavour, for example, provides the profile of blanched, raw almonds with a nutty and creamy characteristic. The Walnut version, meanwhile, has nutty, earthy notes with roasted nuances.

“In the dairy, bakery and confectionery sectors, nut flavours are a traditional and essential component of many recipes. But with a growing incidence of allergies, more and more consumers are unable to enjoy them. Our new range enables manufacturers to provide authentic nut flavours with the ‘free from’ appeal, and gives people with allergies the chance to join the nut flavour fan base,” says Simon Daw, Director of Marketing at Sensient Sweet Flavors Europe. “We are constantly looking for value-added ingredients; one of the future developments could include nut-free inclusions that provide the authentic taste experience as chopped nuts but without the risk of allergic reactions.”

Besides offering a wide range of flavourings, Sensient has a comprehensive portfolio of exciting inclusions, sauces and fillings on hand to create outstanding products within the sweet segment.

Sensient has created a “Toolbox”, containing caramel sauces with its nut free nut flavours to enable customers to experience the new range for themselves. Toolboxes can be requested by email lisa.rosindell@sensient.com or phone +44 1908 360515.