All over the world, consumers are increasingly looking for authentic and clean-label food made of natural and health-promoting ingredients as the fundamental idea of linking diet and health is becoming mainstream. These tendencies have been even more evident during the global COVID-19 pandemic, and as a result created a massive consumer demand for healthy food. The food industry is one of the largest manufacturing sectors in the global economy, reaching a market size of approximately $70 billion and an estimated annual growth of 5-6%.
Denmark has the perfect blend of nature and science
Denmark has the most innovative food sector in the EU, and is recognized as a global leader within ingredients. With a world-market share of 14%, Denmark is home to the World’s leading international ingredients companies who export 98% of the ingredients produced. The Danish Food sector is a centuries-old success story about getting the best out of the resources provided by nature – and by science. It is a story of continuous development and innovation leading to a sector reaching far beyond the borders of Denmark.
The growing need for healthy and nutritious food products is top of mind for the Danish food ingredients industry – as it is for the consumers. The Danish tradition for healthy and organic high quality products have naturally extended into a strong focus on natural food and natural ingredients. Denmark is considered a global frontrunner in areas such as enzymes, emulsifiers, cultures, natural food colors, flavors and whey protein. Food producers as well as ingredients companies invest heavily in research, development and new production methods to produce healthy alternatives to standard foods that do not fail on sensory quality – but taste, look and feel like the original products
The Danish food sector is one of the most sustainable and environmentally friendly in the world. Danish food production is characterized by the ability to produce with minimal pollution, high resource efficiency and a small carbon footprint. Denmark excels by being able to produce more with less - and saving money at the same time. A cost-efficient production with a strong focus on turning waste streams into new high-value products is a trademark of the Danish food cluster.