Sustainable nutrition on the agenda for Vitafoods Europe 2019

14 Jan 2019 --- Vitafoods Europe 2019 – taking place on May 7-9 in Geneva – will this year explore the collaboration required to shape a more sustainable future for the nutraceutical industry. The theme choice follows the growing popularity of plant-based ingredients, as well as the demand for more responsible farming methods and the backlash against overly packaged items in recent years.

The focus of the event comes as consumer demand encourages manufacturers to seek a balance between naturally sourced ingredients and sustainably produced nutraceuticals. This is through the development of innovative new products, processes and packaging. The need for greater supply chain transparency has also contributed to an increased focus on the role of contract manufacturing, presenting an opportunity for these businesses to set the standard for sourcing practices and quality.

“The move towards true circularity requires a monumental shift across the entire nutraceutical product lifecycle – from ingredient to shelf – and can only be made possible by collaboration across the entire supply chain,” says Chris Lee, Managing Director, Global Health and Nutrition Network, Europe, at Informa Exhibitions.

“Our goal with Vitafoods Europe 2019 is to get the industry talking to understand how we can create a sustainable future, as well as to inspire the nutraceutical community with trends, insights and solutions that support market-leading product development and business growth,” he adds.Vitafoods Europe 2019 will this year explore the collaboration required to shape a more sustainable future for the nutraceutical industry. 

The nutrition industry was recently called upon to take heed of environmental sustainability by the Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior (SNEB). Improving the nutritional health of a population must not come at the expense of the sustainability of the food system, the group warns. 

What does nutraceutical mean to you?
This year’s show will also be asking visitors and exhibitors to consider “what does nutraceutical mean to you?”. In a market where personalization, digital technologies and alternative foods are on the rise, the definition of nutraceutical is evolving. 

“By facilitating the debate around the meaning of nutraceuticals, we’re hoping to dispel the confusion surrounding the term and better understand the broader picture of our industry, as well as bring to light the passion and insight that is driving the latest science and innovation. Ultimately, a more unified vision of nutraceuticals will create a more compelling and credible appeal to today’s savvy consumer,” adds Lee.

Running alongside the exhibition will be Vitafoods Education Program, which will give attendees the opportunity to learn from and network with the world’s leading nutraceutical, supplement and functional food industry experts. Discussion topics this year include personalized nutrition, sustainability, contract manufacturing and technological innovation.