EHL Ingredients, a leading importer, blender and packer of natural food ingredients, has reported an increase in demand for its allergen-free ingredients and blends, with its curry powder taking the top spot. Demand for EHL’s allergen-free curry powder blend has increased by 35% within the last year, due to the rise in the number of food allergy sufferers in the UK and more stringent regulations within the food industry.
The blend does not contain mustard – the fourth most common food allergen in the UK – or celery, which can also cause an allergic reaction. It is composed of a unique blend of spices and seasoning and comes in medium and hot varieties, depending on customer requirements. Plus, the blend does not contain salt, making it ideal for low-salt foods too.
“We developed our allergen-free ingredient blends following demand from customers in the food manufacturing sector as many companies have now started producing allergen-free foods for both children and adults to enjoy,” said Tasneem Backhouse, sales director at EHL Ingredients. “Our blends are produced on a specialist line, adhering to the strictest quality and safety controls so customers can be reassured that our products are completely allergen-free. What’s more, our products are expertly blended with top of the range ingredients that will produce great tasting dishes.”
Tasneem added: “We are constantly working to identify new free-from herbs and spices to meet consumer and market demand. For us, the last 12 months have witnessed a huge increase in demand and sales and we see this as a trend that will continue due to several factors: the increase in self-diagnosis of food allergies and intolerances; the popularity of free-from diets; and the increase in NPD in this sector with some products becoming more mainstream and having a broader appeal in the marketplace.”
EHL Ingredients stocks approximately 21 allergen-free herb and spice blends in conventional and organic formats, including the popular mustard- and celery-free curry powder and sesame-free Italian seasoning, which has experienced a 30% increase in sales over the last 12 months. In addition, it supplies allergen-free Cajun, BBQ, Thai and Piri Piri seasonings, as well as Herbs de Provence, Chinese Five Spice, Garam Masala, Ras El Hanout, Tandoori Masala and a Shawarma Lamb Mix. Overall, demand for EHL’s allergen-free ingredients has increased by 20% over the last year.
With up to 25 million people (40% of the UK population) estimated to be suffering from food intolerances and allergies there is a clear need in the market for allergen-free food products that are safe for sufferers to eat, as well as appealing, tasty and filling.
EHL’s ingredients and blends are aimed at food manufacturers supplying ready meals to retailers and caterers. They are suitable for use in curries, stir fries, sauces, soups and stews, tagines, marinades, as well as meat, fish and vegetable dishes. They are available in bulk to wholesalers and packers and can also be added to dry mix blends for home-cooking meal kits.
EHL Ingredients has been sourcing the finest natural and organic ingredients from around the world for over 18 years in order to produce quality blends for the food manufacturing industry. The company has also achieved its third grade A certification in its BRC accreditation following a rigorous audit process. Customers can rest assured that EHL Ingredients adheres to the most stringent quality and safety management processes to ensure no allergens are present in ingredient blends.
