What to pay attention to when choosing a supplier of plant-based ingredients?
In today’s – rapidly growing and changing market for products relying on plant-based ingredients – the importance of choosing the right supplier of these raw materials is becoming crucial for both new business and established companies. This is true for food and cosmetics manufacturers, as well as for FMCG goods in the broadest sense.
The following guide focuses on the main aspects that should be considered when selecting a plant-based ingredient supplier to ensure the highest quality, sustainability and ethical supply.
1. Certification and transparency
Quality and sustainability certifications
When choosing a supplier, it is crucial to pay attention to the certifications it holds. Certifications such as European organic certification, GFSi certification, or Fair Trade certification are not only a confirmation of quality, but also demonstrate the social and environmental responsibility of the supplying company.
Transparency of the supply chain
The supplier should ensure full transparency of its supply chain. Knowledge of the origin of ingredients, their path from field to factory, allows to assess the sustainability and ethics of production processes.
2. Quality and stability of supply
Quality control of raw materials
Quality control is fundamental when selecting a plant-based ingredient supplier. It is important to check whether a potential supplier follows certain standards, such as GMP, and has quality control systems in place, how often it tests and updates quality procedures that have a direct impact on the quality of the ingredients it supplies. Does the chosen supplier fulfill your expectations in terms of analytics and advisory on legal aspects, does it really know the ingredients it offers?
Stability and flexibility of supply
Stability of supply is key to production continuity. It is worth paying attention to:
– supplier’s history,
– the average lead time of ingredient’s production and delivery,
– its ability to adapt to changing market needs,
– the potential to increase supply volumes in the future.
3. Innovation and product development
Investment in research and development
Suppliers who invest in research and development (R&D) can offer not only basic ingredients, but also unique solutions tailored to manufacturers’ specific needs.
It’s worth looking for suppliers who are open to collaboration in product innovation, and who will not only provide support for ingredient selection, but also provide comprehensive consultation.
When choosing a supplier, it is important to pay attention to whether suppliers follow and adapt to current market trends, such as the growing demand for vegan or organic products.
Such companies – through their modern approach – can better support your brand in its development.
4. Ethical and environmental aspects
Ethical sourcing of raw materials
Ethical aspects, such as working conditions in the sourcing of raw materials or the impact on local communities, are extremely important. Working with suppliers who care about social aspects contributes to building a positive brand image.
Failure to take care of ethical aspects can negatively affect the perception of your brand and be the cause of negative reviews on websites and social media (with a particular focus on fan and consumer groups).
At an early stage, it’s a good idea to ask your supplier to provide documents indicating the origin of plant ingredients, their sourcing methods and code of business ethics.
Summary
Choosing a supplier of plant-based ingredients is a decision that has far-reaching consequences not only for the quality of the final product, but also for the environment and society.
By paying attention to the aforementioned aspects, manufacturers can make a choice that best suits their values and business goals, while promoting sustainability.
Looking for a plant-based ingredients supplier?
Looking for an experienced supplier of plant products? Get in touch with us! Since 2018, we have been supporting EEA producers in sourcing the highest quality plant-based ingredients.
Write or call us:
Tel: +48 798 510 105
E-mail: biuro@veganstock.eu
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