Speaking to FoodNavigator-Asia, Ben G Winters, highlighted the importance of scientific validation when working with ingredients for the nutraceutical and functional foods market.
This year, Aroma NZ has invested in two clinical trials which has sparked increased global demand, Winters said.
“Investing in clinical studies was probably the best move we’ve ever made,” he said.
“Unless you have a strong clinical study behind your raw material, it’s very hard to really move volumes,” he added.
Aroma NZ produces green lipped mussel extracts and oils that are marketed for pain relief. It exports around 98% of its portfolio to Europe and the US.
However Winters noted increased demands from Asian countries, in particular Japan, Taiwan, Korea, China and Hong Kong.
The firm plans to attend local Asian trade shows to connect better with these emerging opportunities.
He also revealed that Aroma NZ is planning to delve into the pharmaceutical space.