Global food company Cargill has announced that it is doubling the production capacity of cold-water swelling starch in Indonesia to meet the increasing food consumption.

By increasing the production at its sweetener plant in Pandaan, Cargill intends to better serve food manufacturers in the convenience and foodservice categories.

Cold-water swelling starches are used for producing sauces, dressings, snacks, bakery goods, as well as bakery fillings and cold prepared dairy products.

Cargill Asia starches, sweeteners and texturisers managing director Franck Monmont said: “Since the start of our cold-water swelling starch line in Pandaan three years ago, we have provided customers in the region with shorter delivery lead times, increased supply reliability, and more cost-competitive, Asia-focused speciality starch products.

“Along with our recent announcement of a $100m investment to build a corn wet mill and starch dryer at the same site, this latest development reaffirms Cargill’s confidence in Asia as a leading food and beverage market, as well as our long-term commitment to support both Asian and global consumption, needs as a trusted and innovative food ingredients company.”

Expansion works are expected to be completed by May next year.

once completed, the expansion will complement Cargill’s existing lines in North America and Europe.

The company further added that its cold-water swelling starches are derived from plant origins and provide unique textures to end products.

In June, Cargill announced an investment in its facility in Kalmthout, Belgium, to its increase gourmet chocolate manufacturing capabilities.

Cargill’s €3.5m ($3.9m) investment will see the addition of a fifth gourmet production line and new chocolate tanks within the existing facility.

The funding is also expected to create 12 new employment opportunities in the region.