A new Centre of Expertise in Dubai
Premium quality, indulgence, mouthfeel and texture through fruit pieces and fruit cells are key priorities in this region’s beverages. Drinks tend to be overtly sweet, with typical sugar levels in the range of 12-16 percent. Carbonated soft drinks are the most popular category followed by fruit drinks with fruit pieces and cells.
Functional beverages are growing rapidly worldwide and need to reflect local market needs to deliver relevance and brand positioning. In the Middle East a major health issue lies in the high levels of diabetes in Arab populations. An average of 30 percent of most Middle Eastern populations is diabetic, including a high proportion of children. A key causal factor is a diet with far too high levels of sugar.
The DöhlerGroup sees this dynamic market as a major opportunity to introduce, via its customers, a range of innovative, healthy product initiatives. Natural and exceptionally high quality functional ingredients form the foundation of these beverage concepts. Products that contribute to weight management and a balanced diet are also a high priority. Döhler’s long history of international market development coupled to the experience and knowledge of its local, Middle Eastern staff and backed up with a state-of-the-art development and application centre will help to rapidly move the market forward.
Source
BRAUWELT International 2009