Louis Dreyfus Company taps global trends to power food and beverage innovation

As consumer expectations continue to evolve, Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC) is working with food and beverage brands to turn shifting preferences into practical product solutions. Drawing on insights from its commercial teams and global experts, LDC has outlined how it is addressing today’s trends – from the rise of fusion snacks to the increasing demand for protein-rich beverages – through sustainable ingredient innovations and collaborative partnerships.

Fusion snacks are proving to be one of the year’s most dynamic categories. Combining traditional ingredients with global flavors, these products appeal to consumers seeking novel food experiences. According to Charles-Antoine Dubois, Commercial Director for Plant Proteins at LDC, they also tell a broader story. “Fusion snacks are more than flavor: they tell a story,” he said. “Whether through plant-based proteins or innovative formulations, brands are tapping into the global palate to inspire consumers. Our teams are poised to work hand in hand with our partners – food and beverage innovators worldwide – to meet consumer preferences and redefine what’s possible for food and drinks.”

Beyond snacks, dumplings are also undergoing a renaissance. No longer tied to a single cuisine, these handheld formats are being reinterpreted across cultures with a range of fillings and doughs. To support quality and consistency in production, LDC supplies lecithin as an emulsifier to improve filling texture and moisture retention during cooking.

Texture itself has become a focal point of product development. According to LDC, roasted pulses such as chickpeas and mung beans are increasingly used in snacks, desserts, and even beverages to deliver a satisfying crunch. “Roasted pulses are an exciting solution to address demand for more texture,” said Saurabh Bhartia, Global Head of Pulses. “As a key staple and growing source of plant-based proteins, pulses are versatile, nutritious and deliver the crunch that’s trending.”

In the beverage aisle, the trend toward functionality is accelerating. Modern consumers are seeking more than just hydration – they want added benefits like protein, lower sugar, and plant-based nutrition. LDC has responded by offering solutions such as reduced-sugar orange juice and plant proteins that enrich beverages with soy or pea protein. Its pea protein isolate, for example, contains 85% or more protein and is formulated to avoid the off-notes typically associated with pea-based products.

Sourdough, another area of interest, is now being incorporated into a broader range of products beyond bread. Pizza crusts, crackers, and even brownies are featuring sourdough for both flavor and perceived health benefits. LDC’s lecithin plays a role here as well, enhancing dough elasticity, bread volume, and structure while also aligning with vegan, kosher, and halal requirements.

Plant proteins remain a core focus across LDC’s offerings. With growing demand driven by health, environmental, and ethical concerns, soy and pea protein isolates have become essential components in snacks, cereals, bars, and even meat alternatives. LDC’s soy protein isolate contains at least 90% protein and is noted for its high solubility, making it adaptable to various product types.

From ingredient functionality to global flavor innovation, LDC’s approach to food and beverage trends is rooted in flexibility and close collaboration with partners. The company emphasizes that its solutions are not only designed for product performance, but also for supporting larger goals, including environmental sustainability and consumer health.

“Our role is to support the food and beverage industry in developing solutions that align with emerging tastes and expectations,” LDC noted in its April 2025 trends overview. “We do this by working closely with our partners to ensure safety, reliability and responsible sourcing at every stage of the process.”

As consumers continue to demand more from what they eat and drink, LDC positions itself as a resource for delivering ingredients that meet nutritional, sensory, and ethical standards – while also helping brands remain relevant in a fast-changing market.