Author: Lasenor

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CHEWING GUM, SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Who has not chewed gum in their life? Let us discover what is behind chewing gum celebrating world gum day.

FROM WHERE DOES THE CHEWING GUM COME?

Prehistoric chewing gum derived directly from plants and tree resins with medicinal properties. However, the origin of chewing gum goes back to ancient Egypt and ancient Greece, where people chewed the resin of the mastic bush. The first traces of similar use of natural rubber date back to the Mayans, who routinely chewed rubber balls. Spanish speakers called it chicle, which is, in fact, the Nahuatl name of the plant (Manilkara chicle) from which it is extracted. Chicle gum base became more popular than gums made from resins because it was smoother, softer, and held its flavour longer.

The birth of modern chewing gum is due to William Semple, who patented the first recipe. The first chewing gum went on sale in New Jersey in 1871, but they were mushy and tasteless. Semple and others improved the production techniques to obtain a more consistent product with a better flavour, noticing a remarkable diffusion in the century’s last decade. During the 20th century, remarks the establishment of the synthetic gum base (polyisobutylene) instead of the natural one, although some companies still produce the latter.

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GUM BASE: THE ESSENCE OF EVERY CHEWING GUM

Gum base is the main ingredient in the production of chewing gum. It is an insoluble and non-nutritive substance that allows us to chew it for hours without experiencing substantial changes. Its composition is a secret that every manufacturer jealously protects. Nevertheless, the main components are known. We can find food-grade polymers, plasticizers, softeners, texturizers, and emulsifiers, among other ingredients. 

Occasionally, emulsifiers help to hydrate the gum base, behaving as plasticizers.

    • Acetylated Mono- and Diglyceride – ACETEM (E-472a) increases elasticity and softness of the gum base.
    • Mono- and diglycerides and distilled monoglycerides (E-471) supply suitable textural and anti-sticking properties. They also help to the dispersion of colours and flavours within the gum base.
    • Lecithin adjusts the desired consistency of the gum base, reducing toughness and stickiness. It also enhances resiliency (tendency to return to the original shape) and elasticity. For bubble lovers, it also improves flexibility and thus bubble formation. When added to the chewing gum improve flavour feeling and shelf life.

The gum base recipe may vary depending on the different types of chewing gum to produce. Bubble gum usually has 15–20% gum base, while chewing gum has 20–25% gum base and sugar-free chewing gum has 25–30% gum base. Large chewing gum manufacturers generally produce their gum base in-house, while small chewing gum producers usually buy from third-party suppliers.

HOW TO PRODUCE A CHEWING GUM

The first step to producing chewing gum is elaborating the gum base. It is introduced into a mixing machine, together with colourants, sweeteners, flavourings, and emulsifiers. In the case of a natural gum base, it should be melted previously.

A gum stick is obtained from the paste, flattened by constant rollers that refine its size and thickness. When the gum is thin enough, refined sugar or another powdered sweetener is added to prevent it from sticking. The gum is then cut into different shapes at the flattening and rolling process, either by patterns or simple bars. When the gum has its defined shape, it is transferred to a conditioned place, where the temperature, light, and air are controlled to ensure its proper texture and consistency. Then, extrusion technology is implemented to smooth, form, and shape the gum. Next, the gum goes through a shaping process that is decided by gum type and consumer demand.

chewing gum production process

Chewing Gum production process

THE CHEWING GUM MARKET CHALLENGE

The chewing gum, one of the symbols of the 20th century, is decreasing its popularity in the 21st. The Smartphone is now the winner during the waiting times, and the changes in the consumer buying habits pushed by the pandemic have contributed to the decline of sales. The market is now reacting, finding new niches, mainly focused on specialized sectors such as functional chewing gum with caffeine or others that facilitate relaxation and help to sleep.

Discover all of Lasenor food emulsifiers!

in LASENOR NEWS Posted by Lasenor
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Lasenor opens its new sustainable warehouse

The new warehouse built in Lasenor production centre in Olesa de Montserrat has come into operation, to host the storage, inventory, and distribution functions of our products.
With an area of 1 800 m2, the new warehouse can house more than 3 000 pallets of products prepared for distribution to the national and international market.
It is a semi-automatic clad-rack warehouse with compact pallet racking, using Pallet Shuttle vehicles to make internal autonomous movements within the racks. Forklifts leave the load at the head of the rack. Then, the Pallet Shuttle moves it from the head, throughout the rails, to its final location. Different sensors control the movement of the stored load.

This system provides countless advantages:

  • Timesaving

During pallet loading and unloading. These are placed or extracted at the head of the racks, so the forklift does not enter into the raws, considerably reducing the time of manoeuvre.

  • Greater number of stored references

One reference per level/channel compared to the conventional compact system that is one in all levels of the same module/raw.

  • Greater number of pallets in depth

It admits a greater number of pallets in the channels since they can exceed 40 meters in depth.

  • Greater storage capacity

There is only one manoeuvring lane needed, regardless of the depth of the channels.

  • Greater effective capacity

The possibility of having the same reference in several different channels increases the effective capacity.

  • Decrease damage to the shelving

Since the forklift does not fit into the rack, knocks, friction and possible incidents that could damage the storage structure are avoided.

  • Lower risk of accidents

As the forklifts do not enter the raw/storage channels and, thanks to the construction system of the structure, the risk of accidents is practically non-existent.

  • Increase in production
  • Compatible with different measures of pallets
  • Minimum clearance in height

To optimize the performance of the new facility, Lasenor has implemented a management system based on SAP software and a radio frequency system, through which it will direct all its operations. This will allow it to offer a better and faster service to our customers in supplying orders.

A self-sufficient warehouse

Lasenor has taken advantage of the construction of this new warehouse to install more than 500 photovoltaic panels on its roof, which will allow us to be self-sufficient in our energy consumption.

This new solar garden, which is complemented by the plates installed on the roofs of the parking lot and the facade of the solid tower will give more efficient and clean energy to the Lasenor plant, in addition to significantly reducing its CO2 emissions and the impact of our carbon footprint.

An investment that responds to Lasenor commitment to minimize the environmental impact of our industrial activity in our fight against climate change.

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in SUSTAINABILITY Posted by Lasenor
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Lasenor continues consolidating its presence in the Brazilian market

A new project dedicated to expanding our facilities in Potim boosts the increase in the production capacity of lecithin and synthetic emulsifiers of Lasenor Brasil. 

Lasenor Brasil was created in 2016 in Potim, State of Sao Paulo, to take advantage of the local soy crops as one of the leading soybean producing countries.

The construction of this factory was a further step towards Lasenor objective of supplying row material as close as possible to the origins. Until 2017, Lasenor Brasil main goal was to produce local soy lecithin and import sunflower lecithin to offer a GMO-free alternative for a highly demanding market.

In 2018, Lasenor Brasil decided to increase its portfolio by importing synthetic emulsifiers and non-GMO lecithin produced in Barcelona (Spain) and Nagpur (India). In parallel, the new team designed to manage the business did an excellent job boosting local and export sales in a very complex and highly protectionist market like the Brazilian one.

Lasenor Brasil was created in 2016 in Potim, State of Sao Paulo, to take advantage of the local soy crops as one of the leading soybean producing countries.

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 New lecithin tanks in Lasenor Brasil. 

The increase of local production in LASENOR BRASIL.

The import activity started in 2018 was doing quite well. But following the company strategy, the real aim was to expand the local production. Following this business project, at the beginning of 2019, Lasenor started building a synthetic emulsifier plant without molecular distillation but with the spray cooling technology to make powdered products. The spreading of the COVID-19 pandemic paused the project that is, finally, taking off with an opening scheduled for mid-2023. 

By the same year, Lasenor decided to invest in doubling the lecithin production capacity to reinforce the local market, where GMO-free products demand increases. The effort made by the Lasenor Brasil quality assurance team to obtain the recently incorporated Food Chain ID certification is in this line. 

This investment will contribute to the development of Potim with the generation of direct and indirect jobs and the movement of the local economy. The town is close to the Shrine of Aparecida do Norte and has more than 20 thousand inhabitants. 

Brazil is the second-largest soybean producer in the world.

Currently, Brazil is the second-largest soybean producer globally, only behind the United States. Last year, the country produced more than 114 million tons, according to data from the 2019/20 harvest from the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa). With a record production estimated at 120.9 million tons, according to data published in July this year by the National Supply Company (Conab), there was a 5.1% gain compared to the 2018/19 harvest. 

Due to the large plantations and crops for vegetable oils, such as corn and soybeans, Brazil is for Lasenor a potential country to search for raw materials and contribute to the supply chain. In addition, the state of São Paulo concentrates most of the country’s food industries, being geographically crucial for distribution and contact with Brazilian customers. 

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New contruction site of synthetic emulsifiers in Lasenor Brasil

in GLOBALIZATION Posted by Lasenor
FI EUROPE 2021

Lasenor presented at FIE in Frankfurt

 

From 30th November to 2nd December, Lasenor exhibited at Food Ingredients Europe (FIE) in Frankfurt.

At booth number 41H80, Lasenor presented all its latest innovations on emulsifiers and their applications in the food industry.

As a specialist in the manufacture and application of food emulsifiers, Lasenor offers manufacturers in this sector a range of solutions to adapt to new consumer demands for more environmentally friendly products, allergen-free alternatives and options with a lower fat and sugar content.

Food Ingredients Europe (FIE) is one of the leading trade fairs in the food ingredients industry. It is held annually, alternating between events held Frankfurt and Paris. This 2021 edition featured the classic on-site format, yet it was also held for the first time in hybrid format through a digital platform, from 22nd November to 2nd December, 2021.

Thanks to this dual format, more than 17,000 professionals from 135 countries attended, who had the opportunity to learn about the latest trends and innovations in food ingredients, semi-prepared products, product development and services in the sector.

The event also featured a series of presentations by leading international experts who addressed issues related to topics such as: the future of nutrition and alternative proteins, sustainable food systems, innovative ingredients and technologies, as well as new food safety and supply chain management regulations.

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For all these reasons, Lasenor invited its customers to attend Food Ingredients Europe (FIE) and also to visit our booth to learn about the latest developments, innovations and opportunities that our emulsifiers offer to manufacturers in the sector. These emulsifiers can be used for a multitude of food applications and, thanks to Lasenor’s know-how, are able to be perfectly adapted to production requirements.

Our sales representatives and technicians present at the stand provided all the necessary information and advice for perfect products that meet the rise in new consumer demands.

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in LASENOR NEWS Posted by Lasenor
Lasenor blog

Lasenor Brazil obtains FoodChain ID Non-GMO certification

Good news for The Lasenor Group, as its subsidiary in Brazil has obtained the FoodChain ID Non-GMO certification that supports its production of Non-GMO products. 

GM food has raised consumer concerns about its impact on the environment and on human and animal health. As a result, many countries require mandatory labeling of foods containing genetically modified ingredients when the percentage exceeds a certain threshold. 

To meet consumer transparency demands and to support companies in sourcing Non-GMO materials, FoodChain ID (a leader in Non-GMO certification) launched a first Non-GMO Certification and Non-GMO Mark (product seal) in 1999 to easily identify non-GMO products in the marketplace.

Today, the Global FoodChain ID Non-GMO Standard is recognized within the industry as the benchmark for a production system that does not genetically modify its products, as it applies a quality management system approach to identity preservation. This Standard is applicable to organizations involved in the cultivation, production, processing, storage, distribution, logistics and/or trade of Non-GM products. Product certification can be requested for raw materials, derivatives, additives, processing aids and finished products, including livestock and animal feed.

The certification obtained therefore ensures that Lasenor Brazil complies with the previously mentioned Global FoodChain ID Non-GMO Standard and also with the country’s legislative requirements, which establishes mandatory labeling of natural products, ingredients, food and feed containing GMOs or derivatives with a GMO content equal to or greater than 1%.

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Certificate attesting to food safety 

Lasenor Brazil, based in the town of Potim, in the state of São Paulo, manufactures standardized soy lecithin. It also markets lecithin and special esters produced by other Lasenor production units in Spain, Russia, Argentina and India.

In its desire to offer the highest possible quality standard, Lasenor Brazil is also FSSC22000 certified, which guarantees its food safety management system.

With these two certifications, Lasenor Brazil strengthens its presence as a manufacturer of food emulsifiers in the Americans, where it provides both local support to existing multinational companies and local customers in the region.

Many congratulations to the entire Lasenor Brazil team!

in GLOBALIZATION Posted by Lasenor
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Lasenor develops research + innovation into new products and processes

From its very beginning, Lasenor understood that its medium and long term growth required continuous evolution in research, development and technological innovation (R&D&I). 

This commitment to innovation is an intrinsic part of the company’s DNA. For this reason, the company dedicates a significant part of its economic, human and material resources to the development of new products and processes that reinforce its position in the food market.

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The R&D&I technical team includes chemists, engineers and technologists. Its main objectives include the evaluation, planning and management of new projects. These are focused on the development of new products aimed at meeting market demands or improving the manufacturing processes of the company’s existing products.

This department selects the appropriate raw materials for the synthesis of any new emulsifier and carries out laboratory testing and industrial trials in pilot plants.

Such plants are available for both development and application, allowing us to evaluate the function of our emulsifiers in different finished products. We seek to offer the best solution to our customers, which is why we work closely with them to design customized products that guarantee the best results for each application and formulation.

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in LASENOR NEWS Posted by Lasenor
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Lasenor exhibited at Gulfood Manufacturing in Dubai World Trade Centre

One year after the pandemic, Gulfood Manufacturing, returned to a live setting in order to present its latest innovations and smart solutions in food manufacturing. This brought together leading food authorities, manufacturing companies, supply chain entities, distributors, retailers and the most influential names in the industry, with the aim of meeting, discussing, learning and sharing at its conferences for another year.

We provided the opportunity to learn about Lasenor’s latest innovations in natural food emulsifiers.

For another year, the whole team was delighted to participate in and be part of the Gulfood Manufacturing fair, which took place on 7th to 9th November at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

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in GLOBALIZATION Posted by Lasenor
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LASENOR USA exhibited at Chicago's IFT Supplier’s Symposium & Expo

The changing habits of consumers concerned with improving their health as well as that of the planet has contributed to a boost in sales of Non-GMO foods.

In the USA, this movement is led by The Non-GMO Project, a food certification body which has more than 3,000 verified brands and more than 50,000 products representing more than $26 billion dollars in U.S. food sales.

One of the companies verified by this organization is Lasenor USA, certified to produce Non-GMO lecithins derived from sunflower and soybean. To achieve this, the company has optimized its supply chain in terms of the origin of raw materials from multiple countries.

In addition to Non-GMO lecithins, LASENOR USA is pleased to also offer product developers a new emulsifier option with our “The Power of Sun” portfolio of emulsifiers derived from Non-GMO sunflower. A broad range of sunflower derived emulsifiers are available as drop-in replacements for many common emulsifier applications.

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NON GMO PROJECT

Lasenor USA presented the company and their innovative ingredient solutions at the 59th annual Chicago Section IFT Suppliers’ Symposium and Expo, on 3rd November, 2021 at the Donald E. Stevens Convention Center, Rosemont, Illinois, which was Join us at booth #127 at one of the largest industry trade events of its kind. 

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in GLOBALIZATION Posted by Lasenor
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We are present in the main sourcing areas for NON GMO lecithin

We will offer feedback on its development as a diagnosing tool

Non GMO Soya – Identity Preserved

Indian Soy Crop 2021 estimated production figures

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Highlights of this issue : · Monsoon season is still in full swing, with late showers. Beans humidity is a factor to be carefully monitored as this may bring quality issues (OTA levels).

Import figures show a fast-growing demand in India, strongly supported by a healthy local Feed industry. 

Increasing sea freight from South America to India combined with restricted lecithin availability in Brazil have led to bullying price levels. 

As a consequence, many Indian companies have been forced to accept paying prices similar to European market to get the material they need. 

Indian Soyabean prices have reached a record price of EUR 1200/Mt this year 2021, (and we now see) farmers seem reluctant to sell at a lower price level despite oil complex slight decrease overseas. 

From the demand point of view, we have been seeing a kind of panic in Europe and South America, due to scarce Brazilian production of Non GMO IP material:

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Many customers found themselves short, with open positions and default from their usual suppliers. 

This puts additional pressure on Indian supply, and we expect prices remaining high until the new crop in South America. 

Last but not least, sea freight from India to Europe/Americas has sky rocketed in the past five months, which makes many sellers reluctant to make long term agreements. 

Facing such an uncertain scenario, Non GMO IP Russian material is now strongly considered as a back-up option.

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Sunflower Lecithin

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– Latest harvest figures in the Black Sea show that crop may turn potential record crop in Ukraine (larger than
previously assumed), but on the other hand Russian crop may turn a lower than expected.

In the worst-case scenario Russian production may turn out below 15 million Tons in 2021.

– Abundant production is expected in several EU countries.

– However, the transition to the new crop is being extremely difficult for various factors:

  • The season started later than expected due to weather conditions 
  • Many deliveries are pending due to the shortage 
  • Many farmers keep stock, being reserved sellers 
  • Russian taxation on exports is reducing processing of sunflower seeds 
  • Demand is healthy in EU 27, with biodiesel production switching from rapeseed to sunflower. 

– As a result, demand of raw materials remains firm and the expected price decline on sunflower lecithin on the high season has not materialized. 

– From a more global point of view, the Non GMO production deficit in South America, combined with sea freight crisis, has a strong impact on sunflower lecithin market segment. 

India will not be able to absorb 100% additional demand coming from usual Brazilian customers. We strongly believe that end users will continue with the switch from IP soy to sunflower in order to guarantee the Non GMO status.

In our views, both Non GMO soya lecithin and sunflower lecithin prices will remain at high price level, well above EUR 2,00/kg EXW, with additional potential increases later in the year if demand remains strong. 

Next crop in South America will have to be carefully followed, as there is a high risk that La Niña weather conditions would result in rainfall deficit and bad crop. 

All these factors are at play in a market where we continue seeing a solid demand for lecithin as a “natural” emulsifier

in LECITHIN NEWS Posted by Lasenor
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Lasenor takes part in Africa Food Manufacturing

This August, from 2nd to 4th, Lasenor was present at the Africa Food Manufacturing exhibition held at the Egypt International Exhibition Center in Cairo.

At its stand, Lasenor had the opportunity to present the company’s latest innovations in food emulsifiers of natural origin to its numerous visitors.

Africa Food Manufacturing is a unique meeting point for supply chain professionals in the food and beverage manufacturing industry in the Egypt region. Additionally, for professionals looking for innovation in ingredients as well as the latest solutions in processing, packaging and logistic solutions applicable to the sector.

In addition to learning about the latest technologies in all these areas, this important event provided manufacturers, distributors and food professionals with new business opportunities in Africa and the Middle East; markets that offer rapid growth and expansion of the food industry.

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Formerly known as Afropackaging, Africa Food Manufacturing has been running successfully in Cairo since 2012. In this latest edition, where it was possible to participate both in person and virtually, more than 200 exhibitors and 4,500 visitors from 20 countries were present, who were able to learn about the latest trends and movements in the sector.

As such, in addition to networking meetings arranged by an innovative artificial intelligence system, participants to this important event also had the opportunity to attend an extensive program of conferences by experts in: food science, nutrition and public health, food safety, food fraud, R&D and innovation, sustainability and waste management, food technology, supply chain and traceability, rules and regulations of exports, etc..

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in GLOBALIZATION Posted by Lasenor