Upcycling: a long-term opportunity or a passing trend? | Register to attend the online webinar here

Emma Schofield
17^th February | Online

11:00 – 12:30 Europe/Amsterdam

Upcycling is a term describing the act of valorising food waste and byproducts back into the human food chain. Mintel’s GNPD shows that currently, less than 1% of food, drink and supplement launches feature an upcycled ingredient claim, though innovation with upcycled ingredients is increasing. Recent upcycled ingredients, like cocoa pod fruit and juice, spent grains, and grape pomace from the wine and juice industry, have supported the development of innovative launches. 52% of UK consumers saying buying food and drink made with upcycled ingredients that is appealing. Though many consumers are in theory keen to adopt sustainable diets, factors like taste and price are obstacles to them doing so. Sustainability attributes often add cost, though only 14% of Japanese consumers say use of upcycled ingredients adds value to alcoholic beverages. The thought of consuming “upcycled waste” may not be appealing, which is a challenge as taste (alongside price) consistently ranks as the top factor for consumers, when buying food and drink.

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Meet our experts

Emma Schofield

Associate Director – Global Food Science, Mintel Food and Drink

Emma has been a member of Mintel’s EMEA Food and Drink team for almost ten years, and prepares bespoke project work for Mintel’s key food and drink industry clients. Prior to joining Mintel, Emma worked in the UK food industry for over ten years, as a food technologist for a UK supermarket, and as an NPD manager for a leading international food manufacturer. Emma regularly represents Mintel as a speaker at events like Alimentaria in Spain, and various Fi Global engagements. Emma holds an MSc Food Science from the University of Reading. At Mintel, Emma creates analysis and insight on ingredients and additives, health and wellness, labelling and regulatory developments that may impact NPD, and emerging food tech and science trends.