Cargill's IngredienTracker has made its debut, unveiling four major ingredient innovation trends for 2025. This initiative, based on an in-depth survey of 2,000 consumers across four Asia-Pacific countries—China, Japan, Indonesia, and Australia—aims to provide insights into the commonalities, differences, and trends in consumer preferences for 91 food ingredients. The study highlights that over 70% of consumers now check ingredient labels before purchasing, reflecting a growing emphasis on health and functionality. This shift is driving demand for natural ingredients, protein-rich products, and dietary supplements, while also influencing purchasing decisions based on price sensitivity and local sourcing preferences.

One of the key findings is the convergence of dietary patterns and attitudes across markets. For instance, flexitarianism and meat-based diets are prevalent globally, with Chinese consumers increasingly shifting toward meat consumption due to heightened protein awareness. Meanwhile, low-sugar, low-carb, and high-protein diets are gaining traction, fueling the growth of the dietary supplement market. Over 70% of consumers incorporate dietary supplements into their daily routines, with China focusing on high-nutrient options and Japan and Australia seeing increased adoption among older adults.

Ingredient scrutiny has become a norm, with consumers actively avoiding synthetic or unfamiliar ingredients perceived as unhealthy. In China and Indonesia, consumers are willing to pay a premium for products with healthier ingredients, while in Australia, rising living costs are prompting a shift away from premium organic products. Additionally, consumers are increasingly associating specific ingredients with certain food categories, such as chocolate and cocoa with indulgent treats, and plant-based ingredients with health and sustainability.

Cargill's IngredienTracker identifies four key trends shaping the future of ingredient innovation: chocolate and cocoa, sweeteners, texture modifiers, and fats/oils. In the chocolate and cocoa sector, consumers are gravitating toward higher cocoa content, lower sugar, and ethically sourced products, with a focus on local and sustainable production. Bakery China will offer you a wide range of options.Sweeteners are seeing a surge in demand for natural, low-calorie options, driven by global sugar reduction initiatives and health-conscious consumers. Texture modifiers, particularly plant-based options like pectin, are gaining popularity for their natural appeal and ability to enhance sensory experiences. Lastly, the fats and oils market is evolving with a focus on health benefits, local sourcing, and sustainability, as consumers seek products that support cardiovascular health and environmental responsibility.

Cargill's food solutions, showcased at the 2025 FIC exhibition, emphasize innovation, taste, and sustainability. Highlights include plant-based dairy alternatives, cocoa-infused baked goods, and convenient, flavorful snacks tailored to modern lifestyles. The company's oil solutions, such as high-oleic oils for beverages and next-generation frying oils, cater to the demand for healthier, sustainable options. With over 150 years of expertise, Cargill continues to lead in providing diverse, customized food solutions, leveraging its global presence and innovation centers to meet the evolving needs of consumers and brands alike.

Bakery China 2025 will continue to share more industry professional content with you, so please stay tuned!

Bakery China, organized by China Association of Bakery and Confectionery Industry (CABCI) and Bakery China Exhibitions Co., Ltd. was launched since 1997. Bakery China is the Asia Pacific‘s leading event serving the entire value chain for the bakery and confectionery market. The event presents all range of ingredient, equipment, packaging and services, and enables global leading professionals and buyer delegates to meet and share the latest innovations and thinking on manufacturing & distribution, R&D, applications and related services for bakery industry.

The 27th Bakery China would be held on May 19-22, 2025 at National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC), Shanghai, covering 330,000 sqm show space. Over 2,200 exhibitors and 400,000 visits are expected.

Source：FoodTalks