A growing global demand for processed and convenience food is pushing food producers to innovate in terms of their product offerings.

This is according to a new report (Dehydrated Vegetables Market by Future Market Insights) which explains that this innovation is so manufacturers can supply healthy, ready-to-consume food products with a longer shelf life.

In this context, dehydrated vegetables are fast emerging as favourite snack options. This increase in demand is fuelling growth in sales and to cater to the rising consumer need, companies are leveraging technology to produce dehydrated vegetables that can be consumed for a longer period of time.

The study predicts a 4.8% growth rate of the global market for dehydrated vegetables over the coming decade. From an estimated value of more than US$ 56 billion in 2018, revenue from the sales of dehydrated vegetables is projected to cross US$ 90 billion by 2028.

Some of the common technologies used to dehydrate food include infra-red drying, air drying, vacuum drying, drum drying, freeze drying, and spray drying. By helping preserve the food under certain specific conditions, these technologies help retain the taste, texture, and nutrition which enhances the quality of the product.

Innovation for dehydrated vegetables in powder form

One of the producers of organic fruits and vegetables operating in the global market has recently launched their line of dehydrated vegetables and fruits in powder form. The company claims that their powdered dehydrated vegetables and fruits contain the same amount of nutrients as fresh vegetables and fruits.

The raw material used includes organic vegetables and fruits sourced directly from farms; which is then freeze dried to retain essential natural ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, and proteins; and is further heated to remove the water content and convert the produce into a powder form for easy consumption. The company further asserts that this powdered form of the dehydrated vegetables and fruits contains no additives such as sugar and can last for a period of about six months.

Globally, dehydrated vegetables have a robust supply chain with excellent transportation infrastructure and sustainable packaging formats. Sustainability and innovation continue to drive production and marketing efforts of key players in the market, in keeping with rising consumer awareness of environmentally friendly production and packaging.

Furthermore, e-commerce has a big role to play in the distribution of dehydrated vegetables, making it convenient for consumers to compare and verify product quality, pricing, origin, and producer/supplier details before making a purchase.

The online channel also offers a larger variety of products for consumers to choose from, with detailed product specifications and offers. This, coupled with factors such as easy payment options, free home delivery, and easy return/exchange policy has brought in increasing transparency and product availability for consumers. 

By New Food Magazine