Vitafoods Asia adds in-depth conference, innovations awards

DEMAND for nutraceutical and functional foods in Asia is being driven by the growing number of high earning, middle class consumers who seek solutions to health and well-being issues. There is also massive potential for companies to exploit the untapped potential for functional food and drinks in this region.

This year, Vitafoods Asia will further explore these macro trends, whilst showcasing innovative products and ingredients to identify new areas of opportunity. Scheduled from 3–4 September in Hong Kong, the fair will gather leading suppliers from across the globe and include the likes of Bionov and Kaneka. The Vitafoods Asia Conference The only conference dedicated to the nutraceutical, functional and fortified food and drinks sector in Asia, the Vitafoods Asia Conference will run alongside the exhibition and feature top speakers over two days of presentations. Its modular format allows visitors to choose those presentations relevant to their businesses so they can make the most of their time at the show.

Topics will include food safety, weight management, and how Halal certifi cation is key to success in certain markets. Amongst those sharing their expertise are Natasha D'Costa from Frost & Sullivan, Prof Nagendra Shah of the Hong Kong University, Prof Zhen-Yu Chen at the Chinese University of Hong Kong and Prof Chau Chi Fai from the National Chung Hsing University in Taiwan. Business Leaders Networking Breakfast This meeting chaired by Pushpanathan Sundram, MD, EAS Strategic Advice and former deputy director, ASEAN, is an exclusive for 30 senior professionals who will discuss business opportunities and regulatory issues such as the ASEAN harmonisation set for 2015.

Vitafoods Asia Awards
In addition to Nutrition Innovation Award introduced last year, two industry accolades will be launched in 2014, the Innovative Ingredient and Best New Finished Product. It aims to recognise technical advancement and scientific benefi t and also credit those manufacturers designing products with specific health benefi ts to help end users. Visitors will continue to enjoy the usual features, including the Seminar Theatre, which hosts presentations from leading associations, research analysts and suppliers, including the ASEAN Alliance of Health Supplement Associations. The EAS regulatory advisory sessions will take place, so visitors can avail of the free one-to-one regulatory advice.

Innovation Spotlights Vitafoods Asia also offers exhibiting companies an expanded platform to showcase products at the New Products Zone. For the fi rst time, alongside the New Products Zone are Innovation Spotlights, where visitors can listen to expert opinions about the latest trends in the region from market leading research companies. Visitors can see ingredients as fully formed products in the Finished Products Pavilion, dedicated to suppliers of supplements, functional food and drinks or private label services. The Tasting Bar, which has expanded for this year's edition, sits within the Finished Products Pavilion and allows attendees to see, touch, smell and taste new products.

Date: 3–4 September 2014
Venue: AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong
Organiser: IIR Exhibitions Ltd
T: +65 6411 7722 F: +65 6411 7778
E: vitafoods@informa.com
W: www.vitafoodsasia.com