Features

Vitafoods International, the largest gathering of nutraceutical experts in the industry is taking place at the Geneva Palexpo on 6 to 8 May 2008. Now in its 11th year, the event promises to build on the success of previous years by providing a platform for serious business and networking in the areas of nutraceuticals, cosmeceuticals, functional foods
and drinks.

The year-on-year growth in popularity and stature of the exhibition is a reflection of the changing nature of the industry as a whole. In 2007, Vitafoods International grew in size by nearly 25 per cent, alongside the boom in the global functional ingredients market, which in the US, one of the sector’s most buoyant regions, was worth a staggering US$21.3 billion in 2006. Rising consumer interest in the role of diet and health, and a growing desire to take a more active role in promoting and optimising personal well-being, have been key to the development of the this market in recent years. Sales of products promoting health benefits are thriving, with marketers quick to capitalise on the opportunities. In-store and media advertising of popular items such as spreads containing Omega-3, pro-biotic yoghurts and vitamin-enhanced juice drinks mean that functional foods have now firmly entered the mainstream food market.