Polyols are principally used as sugar alternatives in food products
French firm Roquette has announced an investment plan of €25 million for liquid and powder polyols between 2022 and 2024 at its site in Lestrem, France. This major investment will establish a strong reliable supply in the long run and strengthen Roquette’s position as a leader in polyols.
Roquette’s site in Lestrem is the largest polyol plant in the world offering a wide variety of products. This investment will improve equipment efficiency and increase safety standards. It will also help to standardize some industrial operations contributing to an overall production performance improvement. This evolution will ensure a sustainable supply in the market and meet the customers’ increasing expectations for greater flexibility.
Driven by the fast-increasing trend for healthier and sustainable food and lifestyle, the demand for nutritional solutions is dramatically increasing. According to Euromonitor, the market of healthier food products is expected to grow by about 15% in value between 2021 and 2026. Thanks to the nutritional benefits they offer, polyols are addressing this trend. Produced from plant-based raw materials such as maize or wheat, polyols are principally used as sugar alternatives in food products such as sugar-reduced or sugar-free confectionery, chocolate, chewing gum, baked goods, or snacks. The numerous scientific publications on the nutritional benefits of polyols for the human body evidence the positive impact of polyols in a healthy and well-balanced diet.