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Global mega-trends and consumer trends are rapidly evolving in the food and beverage sector and striking a balance between them all can be tricky but is essential to success. ABB recently released a white paper that examines these issues and more, titled A taste of the future – understanding what’s driving food & beverage in 2020 and beyond.

The white paper identifies three global mega-trends: An increase in population and a corresponding increase in urbanisation; a drive towards a circular economy; and the ongoing rise of digitalisation.

Along with the global mega-trends, the white paper discusses the implications of three consumer trends that will shape the industry in the coming years: moving beyond meat; consumer demand for “functional foods”, rich in nutrition with ingredients beneficial to health; and a demand for authenticity and experience.

The ongoing rise of digitalisation is an important global trend.
The ongoing rise of digitalisation is an important global trend.

The paper points to specific opportunities these trends present food and beverage professionals. These revolve around four industry drivers: transparency, sustainability, novelty, and convenience.

The paper says, “Striking the balance between innovation and expertise has the potential to transform lives across continents for generations to come." This can be brought to fruition with the assistance of experts in power, automation, and robotics, such as ABB.

To access the ABB white paper in its entirety, click here.

Food & Drink Business

The Queensland University of Technology (QUT) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Japan Bioindustry Association (JBA) to strengthen collaboration and drive innovation in the biomanufacturing sectors in Japan and Australia.

The South Australian government has launched its $250,000 Spirits Expansion Program in partnership with Distillers South Australia, aiming to support the state’s distilleries to expand locally and into priority international markets.

Cellular Agriculture Australia has released a white paper in collaboration with the Australian National University and the Australian Strategic Policy Institute highlighting the role of emerging biotechnologies in the future of Australia’s food system.