Trends & CSR Ingredients  H146

Discover the ESG Trends & Ingredients Area, developed in partnership with NutriMarketing, highlighting three major ESG trends identified to support the ongoing transformation of the food and beverage industry.

NutriMarketing is a consultancy specializing in Food & Nutrition innovation, offering expertise in formulation and reformulation, regulatory compliance, nutritional communication, and marketing. Its areas of expertise include food products, functional beverages, dietary supplements, cosmeceuticals, and pet food.

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CSR Trends

Upcycling

The global market for upcycled ingredients is experiencing strong growth. Valued at $314.1 million in 2024, it is expected to reach $647.9 million by 2035, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8%. This growth reflects the increasing interest of both manufacturers and consumers in solutions that maximize the value of food resources while reducing waste.

In France, this trend is supported by several key factors. On the one hand, consumers are becoming increasingly aware of environmental issues and are seeking more sustainable products. On the other hand, the regulatory framework strongly encourages waste reduction and the development of a circular economy through legislation such as the Garot Law, EGalim, AGEC, and the Climate and Resilience Act.

These regulations encourage companies to better utilize their co-products and by-products. For producers, what was once considered a waste management cost can now become an additional source of revenue.

Carbon Footprint Reduction

In France, the food system accounts for approximately 22% of the country's carbon footprint. Agriculture represents the largest share, contributing nearly 18%, while the food and beverage industry accounts for around 2%.

In response to this challenge, public authorities have set ambitious targets. The National Low-Carbon Strategy (SNBC) aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 35% by 2030 and 81% by 2050, compared with 2015 levels.

In addition, the Climate and Resilience Act requires various sectors, including the food industry, to develop decarbonization roadmaps and strengthens environmental labeling requirements. These developments are encouraging companies to rethink both their sourcing strategies and production processes.

Sustainable Alternatives

To improve their environmental performance and meet evolving market expectations, food and beverage manufacturers are developing new sourcing strategies. They are increasingly prioritizing plant-based ingredients, locally sourced raw materials, and alternatives to high-impact ingredients such as cocoa, coffee, and palm oil.

New supply chains are also emerging that take into account not only climate-related challenges but also social and working conditions. As a result, sales of Fair Trade-certified products in France have increased fivefold over the past ten years, reaching €2.65 billion in 2024 (+25%), with 50% originating from French supply chains.

In addition, 78% of Fair Trade-certified products are also organically certified, reflecting the growing demand for more sustainable and responsible products.