Shift towards organic, eco-friendly edibles gaining traction
In a significant move towards health-conscious and sustainable food production, Spar, a leading supermarket chain, has unveiled a collection of 177 new products developed between May 2024 and December 2024. The new range, which includes 44 additive-free products and 48 bearing the "Simply Without" label, is the result of a collaboration with Lower Austrian producers and Spar's ambassador for sustainable enjoyment and regionality, Paul Ivic.
One of the key features of the new range is the use of the modern hot filling production method, which allows for the production of Spar Coconut Mango Curry and other dishes without the need for preservatives. This move aligns with consumer preferences for products with minimal additives, particularly in Austria, where concerns about food safety and potential health risks associated with certain additives are high.
Austrian consumers are particularly cautious about mycotoxins, such as aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, patulin, citrinin, and various fusarium toxins, which are closely monitored in foods like cereals, nuts, cocoa products, and infant foods due to their toxic nature. They also express concerns about nitrite and nitrate preservatives, often found in processed meats and cured products, and synthetic food dyes like Red Dye 40, which are associated with negative health effects.
In response to these concerns, Spar has taken steps to address the use of potentially risky additives. For instance, the acidity regulators E260 and antioxidant E300 were removed from the original recipe of Spar enjoy Lentil Dal, making it possible to completely dispense with additives.
The new range also includes four dishes developed under Spar Premium in collaboration with vegetarian-vegan star chef Paul Ivic. The Spar Premium vegan organic chickpea ragout is one such dish, exemplifying Spar's commitment to providing high-quality, additive-free options for its customers.
By prioritising organic quality and additive-free options, Spar is not only meeting consumer demands but also contributing to a healthier and more sustainable food culture. This move is in line with the stringent food safety culture and regulatory environment in Austria and the EU, which places a strong emphasis on protecting consumers from potential health risks associated with food additives.
- The new range of products from Spar, developed between May 2024 and December 2024, highlights a focus on science, as they have adopted a modern hot filling production method to create dishes without preservatives.
- In alignment with the health-and-wellness trend, Spar's new line of products features 44 additive-free products, reflecting a conscious effort towards maintaining a healthy diet and promoting fitness-and-exercise.
- The new range, which includes dishes like Spar Coconut Mango Curry, emphasizes nutrition by eliminating potentially harmful additives such as acidity regulators E260 and antioxidant E300, promoting a healthy-cooking approach.
- By collaborating with vegan-vegetarian star chef Paul Ivic, Spar has launched four meals under Spar Premium, showcasing a lifestyle that emphasizes food-and-drink choices that are organic and additive-free.
- With their commitment to organic quality and additive-free options, Spar is helping shape a culture that appreciates the importance of nutrition and sustainable food production, contributing to a healthier and more eco-friendly future.
