The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

Givaudan has signed an agreement to distribute an upcycled Green Banana Powder ingredient produced by Dole Specialty Ingredients (DSI), a division of Dole Asia Holdings.

The ingredient will expand Givaudan’s Sense Texture range, which provides clean-label emulsification and texturiser solutions.

Green Banana Powder offers natural texture and viscosity comparable to modified starches, making it a viable replacement for gum, pectin and starch in products such as soups, sauces and baked goods. It also enhances the softness of baked items and improves the mouthfeel of extruded snacks. As a fruit-based ingredient, it adds fibre and nutritional benefits.

The collaboration aligns with sustainability efforts by addressing food waste. Each year, 30-40% of bananas are discarded for not meeting quality standards. Made entirely from upcycled green bananas, the powder provides a functional alternative while supporting sustainable food systems.

Sylvain Jouet, global product manager for Sense Texture, Taste & Wellbeing at Givaudan, said: "Texture isn’t just a sensation, it's an essential element that shapes how we experience food – from the creaminess of a sauce to the crispness of a snack".

"With our Sense Texture solutions, we're not only delivering clean-label alternatives but also elevating the eating experience with natural, upcycled ingredients like Green Banana Powder. This collaboration with Dole allows us to offer high performing products that also contribute to a more sustainable food system."

Wei Tze Ooi, managing director at DSI, added: “By transforming unripe bananas into Green Banana Powder, we not only help reduce food waste but also create an ingredient that can be seamlessly integrated into a variety of food applications. This allows us to drive more sustainable supply chains while offering consumers the healthier choices they’re looking for.”

Givaudan will be the exclusive commercial partner for Dole Green Banana Powder in key markets across Europe and the Americas. The ingredient will also be available globally for use in Givaudan’s product solutions.