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IFF has announced a substantial expansion of its Cedar Rapids, Iowa, facility, aiming to strengthen its foothold in the rapidly growing healthy snacks sector.

The expansion, which encompasses a 47,000-square-foot addition, represents an investment of approximately $70 million and is projected to create up to 40 new jobs when it becomes fully operational in the latter half of 2026.

The Cedar Rapids plant will primarily focus on the production of Taura by IFF fruit-based ingredients, catering to the increasing demand for clean label products among snack manufacturers. This strategic move is designed to capture a larger share of the healthy snacks market, which has seen a surge in consumer interest driven by health-conscious eating habits and a preference for natural ingredients.

Andy Muller, president of food ingredients at IFF, said: “The Cedar Rapids facility will be equipped with cutting-edge technologies, allowing us to provide US-made Taura by IFF fruit ingredients that can be seamlessly integrated into various food manufacturing processes. This investment not only enhances our production capabilities but also reinforces our commitment to sustainability.”

The new facility will incorporate advanced technologies aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and product quality. Key features include:

High automation: The facility will utilise automated systems to streamline production processes, reduce labour costs and increase output.

Advanced packaging solutions: Innovative packaging technologies will ensure product freshness and extend shelf life, crucial for the evolving snack market.

Ergonomic design: The facility's layout will prioritise worker safety and efficiency, fostering a productive work environment.

The facility will implement efficient heat recovery systems, minimising energy consumption, and will use water-saving technologies to reduce overall resource use.

Additionally, IFF plans to incorporate reusable methods for raw material handling, aligning with its broader commitment to environmental stewardship.

The healthy snacks market is projected to continue its rapid growth, fuelled by an increasing consumer preference for nutritious, convenient options. According to industry reports, the global healthy snacks market is expected to reach $108 billion by 2026, driven by innovations in product formulations and clean-label trends.

Taura ingredients, produced at the Cedar Rapids facility, will empower manufacturers to infuse long shelf-life products – such as grab-and-go snacks, enhanced chocolates, cereals and bakery items – with the multi-sensory appeal of real fruit.

These ingredients are crafted using innovative technology that removes moisture while preserving the integrity and flavour of the original fruit, providing versatile formats for food manufacturers.

This expansion will complement IFF's existing operations in Cedar Rapids, which currently produce enzymes used in food, household and personal care products, as well as biofuels. The facility has undergone substantial enhancements in recent years, and the addition of Taura by IFF ingredients will diversify its product offerings and enhance its competitive position in the market.

With over 200 employees already working at the Cedar Rapids site, the expansion is expected to further bolster local employment and contribute to the regional economy.