APAC market for flavors and enhancers on the rise

New research forecasts the Asia Pacific market for food flavors and enhancers to reach about $10 billion by 2020 as it increases at CAGR of 3.5%. In 2014, the market was estimated to reach $8.43 billion, according to the latest from Research and Markets.

Growth is expected in this sector as globalization and modernization have changed the region’s standard of living, and with that, the way consumers choose their food and beverage.  One of the notable changes is the growth in the number of working women. This trend has pushed demand for processed foods, ready-to-eat products that use various flavors, texture and other types of food ingredients.

The focus on better health among many consumers has led to stronger demand for products that are low in fat, salt, and carbohydrate. This trend has also driven growth in new flavor enhancers.

The demand for low fat, low salt and low carbohydrate foods is also driving consumption of different flavors and enhancers.

The health trend has also limited the artificial flavors market, and given rise to natural flavors. One of the popular ingredients that has seen falling demand is monosodium glutamate (MSG), which is said to cause health issues over time.

China and India are the leading players in the APAC flavors market. China is the market leader position in the production and consumption of MSG and this mainly attributed to its huge population.

Since flavors vary by region and country, manufacturers innovate to hold a larger share of the market. This is most exemplified in Southeast Asia with its varied flavor preferences. The region remains a challenge and complex domain for manufacturers.