Ulrick & Short gains organic approval
accreditation for two of its products, allowing it to market these
already clean label ingredients as organic.
The firm has been providing ingredients free from chemicals, artificial components and genetic modification since its formation in 2000. However, without proper approval, it was unable to claim its products as organic, therefore falling short of the possibilities offered by the rapidly growing organic industry. Two of the company's Synergie starch products, DS5 and LF5, used in formulated using cold systems like dairy desserts and cold beverages in place of modified starch, have previously been approved by the Soil Association. While they used non-organic processing aids, there were no organic alternatives available. Ulrick & Short is currently in the process of renewing the two applications. These aside, it has had to rely on certified organic manufacturing partners to provide organic products to its customers. But this meant its organic range was very limited. However, now it can now market Delyte F and Deliquess F as organic. Delyte F is a tapioca starch product used to replace butter in range of bakery applications, including cakes, breads and pastries, thereby cutting the fat content. Deliquess F is also a tapioca starch used to replace fat in processed meats such as burgers, sausages and kebabs. A company spokesperson told FoodNavigator.com the products did not have to undergo any significant changes to be accredited, but was subject to extensive testing. Holding the internationally recognised Soil Association mark for organic production will help the company meet the demands of its customers. "Introduction of these clean label organic ingredients will benefit organic food producers who want to achieve the same textural, stability and functional qualities of conventional processed food," said the company. Organic market Ulrick & Short said it had recognised the growth potential of the organic market and considered certification as an important step for the business. The organic and natural market has been growing in line with an increasing awareness of health and ethical issues surrounding food and drink products. The Soil Association said the organic food market is worth nearly £2bn (€2.5bn) in the UK. It expects 10 per cent growth for global sales of organic products this year, which it says if four to five times higher than sales growth for the general food market in a good year. The certification body said organic products are perceived as being healthier, more nutritious and environmentally friendly. It has over 4,600 licensees of which 1,910 are processors (food, textiles and hair and beauty). Last year, it received 400 applications. Ingredients range The company provides a variety of ingredients for a wide range of foods, including processed meats, soups and sauces, baked goods and battered products. It claims its ingredients are easy to use and the organic range is no exception. The company added: "The organic ingredients will not compromise on quality or taste and will give food producers the opportunity to diversify."
