How APAC Sourcing Solutions Is Redefining Global Chemical Procurement
Explore how natural preservatives are transforming food safety and shelf life. Insights from a Foodology by Univar Solutions application development specialist
Food preservatives are far from a novel concept. Throughout history, humans have strived to innovate new methods that extend food supplies, both for families and entire populations.
The best ways to preserve food have largely focused on how to keep food and beverages safe for consumption without significant degradation in quality. During the 20th century, artificial preservatives and other chemically driven methods of preservation became commonplace to extend the shelf life of food and beverages. However, recent decades have seen growing safety concerns related to artificial food preservatives.
Today’s consumers are more informed and intentional about what they eat, prompting brands and manufacturers to prioritize transparency in ingredients and sourcing. Using natural preservatives and ingredients to enhance food safety and clean-label claims has become a more prominent focus for new product launches and reformulations.
We recently interviewed Bo Li Wei, application development manager, Foodology by Univar Solutions. The discussion focused on natural preservatives, their impact on the food and beverage industry, and implications for the future of synthetic food preservatives.
Partner with Foodology to Solve Your Next Formulation Challenge
Contact the Foodology by Univar Solutions team today to find the right natural preservative for your next winning recipe. Let’s solve your formulation challenge together.
What are the best possible options for natural preservatives in foods and/or supplement ingredients now?
Bo: Preservatives derived from fermentation or plant extraction are commonly selected for natural preservation and have been formulated in various food and supplement products.
Some examples include cultured sugar, cultured starch, or buffered vinegar for microbial control and rosemary extract or acerola extract for oxidation control.
What are the best possible options for natural preservatives in foods and/or supplement ingredients now?
Bo: Preservatives derived from fermentation or plant extraction are commonly selected for natural preservation and have been formulated in various food and supplement products.
Some examples include cultured sugar, cultured starch, or buffered vinegar for microbial control and rosemary extract or acerola extract for oxidation control.
Has the view of using natural preservatives changed over time? In what ways?
Bo: Like many other ingredient categories, developing natural food preservatives has been a process involving discovery and continuing improvement. Initially, there were concerns over the efficacy of natural preservatives versus conventional preservatives that have been used for decades.
As more experiments were conducted with success, data is now available for extended review, and formulators can make sound decisions from the very early stages of product development. Natural preservatives have been proven effective and are making their way to become mainstream solutions.
In your opinion, what should all food and/or supplement formulators keep in mind when looking at preservatives?
Bo: There are several factors to take into consideration for food preservatives, such as product pH, water activity, processing method, storage conditions, and target shelf life. Preservatives are recommended to be added in most cases to extend product shelf life and build an extra hurdle of protection.
However, it’s important to be mindful that food safety is a priority that tops everything else. The shelf life or taste and texture won't matter at all if safety is compromised in any way.
Discover tailored natural preservative solutions with Foodology by Univar Solutions
Natural food preservatives are reshaping the future of clean-label formulation, offering safer, consumer-preferred alternatives without compromising shelf-life or product integrity. Our goal is to help our partners grow and navigate ingredient selection, regulatory compliance, and provide formulation support with confidence. Connect with Foodology by Univar Solutions to discover tailored solutions that meet your formulation goals and help your brand grow.
Find the right natural preservative for your next food or beverage product with Foodology by Univar Solutions.
