Functional additives – what is it?
Functional additives are specialized substances added to products to serve specific purposes beyond basic nutrition or primary function. In the food industry, these additives can enhance flavor, shelf life, texture, or nutritional profile. In the feed sector, they can boost animal health, growth, or feed efficiency. Moreover, in the industrial realm, functional additives can improve product performance, durability, or other desired attributes. These additives play a pivotal role in aligning products with market demands and ensuring consistent quality.
Most common questions
1. How do functional additives benefit the food industry?
In the food industry, functional additives can serve various purposes. They can enhance flavors, making products more palatable, improve food texture, extend shelf life by preventing spoilage, or fortify foods with additional vitamins and minerals. These modifications not only cater to consumer preferences but also ensure product stability and safety during storage and distribution.
2. What roles do functional additives play in animal feed?
In the realm of animal feed, functional additives are integral for optimal livestock health and productivity. They can aid in digestion, enhance nutrient absorption, protect against diseases, or even promote faster growth. The use of these additives ensures that animals receive well-rounded nutrition, leading to better yields and overall animal well-being.
3. Are there regulations governing the use of functional additives?
Yes, functional additives, especially in the food and feed sectors, are governed by stringent regulations to ensure consumer and animal safety. These regulations dictate permissible additive types, their sources, and acceptable concentration levels. Foodcom S.A. emphasizes compliance with these regulations, ensuring that the functional additives they deal with meet all requisite standards.
4. How do functional additives differ from regular additives?
While both types of additives are introduced to products for enhancement, functional additives are specifically tailored to add a distinct ‘function’ or benefit beyond the product’s primary purpose. Regular additives might cater to general needs like color or basic flavor, but functional additives target specific attributes like improving digestive health, enhancing texture, or offering additional nutritional value.
5. How does Foodcom S.A. maintain the quality of the functional additives they trade?
Foodcom S.A. adheres to a robust quality assurance system. The functional additives sourced and traded by the company undergo rigorous testing and validation processes. By partnering with reputable suppliers, conducting regular audits, and staying updated with industry advancements, Foodcom S.A. ensures that the functional additives they offer are of the highest standards, aligning with both regulatory norms and client expectations.
