Speaking to FoodNavigator at the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) Annual Meeting & Food Expo in Las Vegas, a spokeswoman for the business said: “We are looking to partner with companies in Europe.”
Referring to the company’s acquisition by Louis Dreyfus, she said: “An acquisition with its backing could see an extension into Europe. I believe there are plans to invest in the business.”
One of Imperial Sugar’s specialities is sweeteners employing the zero calorie ingredient monk fruit, which the firm makes as ingredients or as finished consumer products under its Naturewise brand.
Imperial Sugar makes a blend of cane sugar and monk fruit, which contains just five calories, under its Symple brand. However, the company must hold off on marketing such products in Europe until monk fruit extract receives full EU approval.
Louis Dreyfus specialises in trading in commodities such as sugar, rice and corn.