Panel discussion in progress during the event.

Business Bureau, Gulf Today

The need for innovation in the global food and beverage industry is greater than ever before, with start-ups and early adopters of new technologies now in pole position to lead food production in a bold new direction, according to international thought leaders speaking at the 2nd Gulfood Manufacturing Foodtech Summit.

Held under the theme ‘Food Production Reinvented’, the industry-shaping Summit, which runs until October 31, 2019 at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), unites global F&B sector heavyweights for an in-depth examination of major issues reshaping a fast-moving, ultra-competitive marketplace defined by greater consumer demand for healthier and more environmentally conscious products, delivered quicker and without compromising on quality.

Sudhakar Gupta of UAE-based IFFCO, an innovative and integrated multi-food products group, told ‘The CxO Panel: Revisiting the Investment Scenario for F&B Manufacturing’ that basic food technologies must be refined to keep pace with rising food quality demands in an era of increased delivery options. “Big brands need to be watchful and open to collaborating on solutions.”

Andrey Dvoychenkov, Managing Director, Nielsen, echoed Gupta’s sentiments, insisting that smaller and “more niche” brands are winning consumers intent on products with sustainable values and health benefits. Citing Nielsen’s global research, Dvoychenkov said: “More than 75 per cent of worldwide consumers want products with a more sustainable ethos. Chocolates and biscuits are two of the biggest drivers in food innovation.”

Brad Barbera, Director of Innovation and Senior Advisor - The Good Food Institute, examined the ‘Paradigm Shift in the F&B Industry’ and told Summit attendees that the food production sector is in great need of innovative technology.