Ingredion will showcase its latest advances in protein fortification, texture enhancement and sugar reduction at Vitafoods Europe 2026 in Barcelona, helping brands meet EMEA consumers’ rising expectations for great taste, appealing texture, and ingredient lists that support clean‑label appeal.
With demand increasing for simpler, more recognisable components, Ingredion will show how its integrated ingredient portfolio helps brands deliver these preferences while building positive nutrition characteristics, such as protein enrichment and reduced sugar, that consumers increasingly prioritise.
On the stand, visitors can explore VITESSENCE® Pea 100 HD, an innovative pea protein designed to deliver soft, consumer‑preferred bars. Ideal for cold‑pressed applications, the solution helps maintain softness throughout shelf life while enhancing texture and delivering effective protein fortification. Beyond bars, VITESSENCE® Pea 100 HD also performs well in bakery applications, enabling protein enrichment without compromising quality or eating experience.
Texture satisfies
Ingredion proprietary consumer insights show that 79% of consumers say texture determines their overall satisfaction, and nearly 8 in 10 consumers are likely to recommend products based on texture alone. This shows that brands must elevate texture if they want to secure preference and build loyalty in an increasingly discerning marketplace.
Sugar reduction
Alongside this, sugar reduction continues to shape new product development across EMEA. Ingredion’s proprietary 2025 research shows that more than 36% of consumers in the region prioritise sugar‑reduction claims when choosing packaged foods and beverages. To help brands respond, Ingredion will showcase stevia‑based sugar‑reduction solutions in beverage and dairy applications, supporting the cleaner label, plant-based appeal many shoppers prefer.
Séverine Bensa, Senior Manager, Commercial Strategy, Protein Fortification EMEA, said: “We’re seeing a trend where wellness factors are shifting from sport performance spaces into more mainstream demands. To meet consumer trends, we help our customers develop winning products with high protein, cleaner label, better taste and overall consumption experience.
“It’s our collaborative approach and technical know-how that really sets us apart. We’re committed to helping brands deliver products with improved taste, texture, and nutritional characteristics.”
Beyond the solutions on display at Vitafoods, Ingredion continues to progress its strategic partnership with Lantmännen, first announced in 2024, as part of its long-term commitment to European-sourced, plant-based protein solutions. The collaboration underpins Ingredion’s broader protein fortification strategy, strengthening regional sourcing capabilities and supporting the development of a future pipeline of sustainable protein ingredients for customers across Europe.
