Verum Ingredients

Ultra-processed foods, a classification proposed by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, refers to several types of food defined as industrial food formulations based on oils, fats and carbohydrates and laboratory synthesized ingredients, such as ready-to-eat and frozen meals, soft drinks, cookies, snacks, and instant noodles. The increased consumption of these products is correlated with a higher incidence of the so called Chronic Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs). Chronic non-communicable diseases are multifactorial illnesses, associated with lifestyle and genetic factors, which develop over a long period of time and are not transmitted among people. Examples of NCDs are cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, intestinal inflammation and even obesity. It is known that the population growth and urbanization of countries have led to changes in dietary habits and the increase in the consumption of ultra-processed foods. These new eating patterns, also called the “Western Diet”, marked by the presence of processed foods in meals, lead to the consumption of large amounts of sodium, refined sugars, and fat, and, at the same time, low amounts of fiber and micronutrients. There has been also an association of this dietary pattern with a sedentary lifestyle. It is estimated that in the United States, 30% of the population’s ingested calories comes from foods rich in sugar, high in calories, poor in nutrients, with low bioavailability of vitamins and minerals such as calcium and magnesium. There has been a correlation of this dietary pattern and obesity and low-grade chronic inflammation. An additional proven consequence of the high consumption of ultra-processed foods is the alteration of the intestinal microbiota, leading to dysbiosis, an imbalance of good and bad bacteria in the intestine, that is also associated with the onset of the NCDs. Currently, it has been found the main strategy for reducing the incidence of NCDs is to increase the consumption of food that is fresh and rich in fiber and vitamins, while reducing the consumption of ultra-processed foods. Verum ingredients offers a portfolio of powdered fruits and botanical extracts that are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals. Contact one of our consultants today through one of our channels to learn more about how to use our products to formulate healthy, clean label foods.

Organic foods are increasingly popular in the food industry. Acknowledged not only for their superior nutritional quality, but also for their positive social and environmental impacts. Organic food products are grown, produced, and processed according to the principles of organic agriculture, which prioritizes natural and sustainable cultivation methods. These foods are cultivated without the use of synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Instead, organic farmers adopt techniques such as crop rotation, composting, and biological pest control to promote soil health, preserve biodiversity, and allow animal welfare. The term “organic food” is attributed to these products, suggesting their natural and sustainable cultivation, following established by organic farming practices, resulting in healthier, more nutritious, and environmentally responsible foods. When it comes to the role of organic foods in health and well-being, the list of benefits is vast. Scientific studies demonstrate that they have higher levels of essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, compared to conventionally grown produce, contributing to a more balanced diet and improved health. The consumption of organic foods has been associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes, due to the absence of harmful chemicals and the occurrence of beneficial natural compounds. However, the benefits of organic foods are not limited to consumer health. By choosing organic foods, consumers support a fair and more sustainable agriculture that values local farmers, promotes food security, and preserves agricultural traditions. By favoring agricultural practices that respect the environment, organic foods help protect fragile ecosystems, conserve natural resources, and mitigate the impacts of climate change. Organic production methods aim to preserve ecosystem health by promoting biodiversity, soil conservation, and protection of water resources. By minimizing the use of chemical inputs and reducing pollution, the cultivation of organic foods is in line with global environmental conservation initiatives. At Verum Ingredients, we are committed to offering authentic and high-quality organic food ingredients to the most demanding customers. Our business decisions made considering the positive impacts of responsible wild harvesting and regenerative agriculture practices. We also work to deliver new, sustainable, and innovative ingredients to the market. In this sense, we contribute to a healthier and more sustainable food chain. Contact one of our consultants today through one of our channels and learn more about our products and services.

Coffee is one of the most enjoyed and consumed beverages worldwide due to its flavor and stimulating effects. Additionally, it serves as a morning ritual for many, providing a necessary boost to start the day. In its original form, coffee is the fruit of the Coffea plant, belonging to the Rubiaceae botanical family. The coffee tree produces a red berry, known as “coffee cherry,” which contains the seeds known as coffee beans. The seeds are removed from the fruit after harvesting and undergo a drying process, followed by roasting and grinding. Traditionally, the ground coffee obtained from the roasted coffee beans is the most used. More recently, there has been a growing interest in the coffee berry, in different stages of ripeness, with or without seeds, due to its flavor and nutritional profile. The coffee fruit has emerged as a new superfood that contains stimulants and antioxidants, with health-promoting properties, including anti-inflammatory effects and immune system support. In many regions of the world, there has been an increase in organic coffee cultivation, without the use of pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. As a result, a higher quality coffee is available in the market, while the sustainability of agricultural ecosystems and environmental conservation is ensured. The applications of organic coffee go beyond traditional brewing. It can be used in teas, energy drinks, flavored drinks, and sports drinks, offering various business opportunities to satisfy consumer preferences. Organic coffee has often more complex flavors and aromatic nuances, which makes it highly appreciated by consumers seeking superior quality. The organic coffee market is expanding to meet the growing demand for healthy and sustainable products. Based on data on global coffee production, countries like Brazil, Vietnam, and Colombia are the largest producers, accounting for approximately 56% of global production. At Verum Ingredients we recognize the importance of offering the market innovative food ingredients, that are also responsibly sourced. Our selection of nutrient-rich botanical food ingredients from South America reflects our commitment to quality, sustainability, and health. Want to learn more? Request a demonstration of our services and products today through one of our channels.

Superfood is the name for the category of food ingredients that are exceptionally rich in nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other bioactive compounds. Consequently, they have outstanding nutritional profiles and are known to offer valuable health benefits. Common examples of superfoods include camu-camu, guayusa, açaí, and maca, among others. Importantly, the reputation of these foods is closely linked to their ability to improve health and prevent diseases. Moreover, superfoods have gained increased attention in recent decades, and South America stands out as an important origin of the world’s most prominent superfoods. Brazil, in particular, is the producer of a broad selection of superfoods that are both popular and widely consumed within the country, as well as exported worldwide. For instance, açai is a superfood recognized internationally for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Beyond açai, other local superfood ingredients, such as cupuaçu, acerola, and cashews, are also loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. At Verum Ingredients, we offer a carefully curated selection of fruit and botanical superfood ingredients from South America. Furthermore, we rely on robust supply chains for our ingredients: reliable, traceable, and sustainable. Feel free to request a demonstration through one of our channels today and learn more about our products.

Within the vast biomes that make up the Brazilian landscape lies an immense wealth of biodiversity. This unique diversity is the result of millions of years of evolution and interaction between ecosystems and indigenous species. However, this biodiversity is often under threat due to the rampant exploitation of natural resources, with no consideration for sustainability and conservation. Traceability of raw materials is a key factor to reach balance between economic development and environmental preservation. By implementing effective tracing systems, it is possible to monitor the origin of natural resources from extraction to final use, thus ensuring the lawfulness and sustainability of the supply chain. In the Brazilian context, where biodiversity is one of the richest in the world, the traceability of raw materials plays a fundamental role in protecting natural resources. In the Amazon region, for example, an great variety of plant and animal species are used in the production of food, medicines, cosmetics, and a myriad of other products. Only through the sustainable exploitation these natural resources, the biodiversity can be preserved, and the livelihoods of traditional communities dependent on these resources is protected. It important to emphasize that the effective implementation of raw materials traceability requires the engagement of all stakeholders of the production chain, from producers and industry to end consumers. Transparency and cooperation are essential to ensure the effectiveness of the supply chain, and promote a culture of environmental and social responsibility. At Verum Ingredients, our mission is to offer the market sustainably sourced, healthy, and innovative ingredients. Our suppliers are leaders in their segments, committed to the highest quality standards, safety, and transparency. Bearing in mind that the food choices we make do have social and environmental impacts, our aim is to increase this awareness among our business partners as well, so they can make informed decisions about what they consume and why. Want to learn more about us? Then contact us today through our channels.

We are proud to have in our portfolio one of South America’s caffeinated botanical treasures: Yerba Mate. Sourced rigorously from sustainable and traceable supply chains in Brazil, and USDA NOP certified, Yerba Mate, also known as Mate (Ilex paraguariensis), is an intrinsic part of the cultural identity of South American countries such as Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. It is the most significant species from the family of holly trees, notable for its caffeine content.

Guarana is a fruit native to the Amazon region and has been part of indigenous culture and traditional medicine for centuries. Guarana seeds are widely consumed in Brazil because of their flavor and health benefits. One of the most effective ways to harness these benefits is through the Guarana Extract, a product that has gained increased attention from dietary supplement and pharmaceutical industries, due to its stimulating and antioxidant properties.