Confectionery Live is excited to feature a thought-provoking session led by Harbinder Maan, Associate Director at the Almond Board of California. Her presentation will take place on 18th September 2024 and will explore innovative approaches to chocolate formulation amidst ongoing supply chain challenges.
With extensive expertise in the food industry, Harbinder Maan will provide valuable insights into how manufacturers can reduce their reliance on cocoa without compromising on the essential qualities of flavour and texture that consumers expect. As the cost of cocoa continues to rise, she will discuss the opportunities for product innovation by incorporating different flavours and inclusions. According to Innova Market Insights, taste is the leading product attribute, influencing 59% of consumer chocolate purchases, with nearly 1 in 4 consumers willing to experiment with new flavours in their chocolate choices.
The session will delve into the key challenges faced by manufacturers and offer strategies for using alternative ingredients that maintain quality and appeal. Harbinder will highlight the top flavours of interest to consumers, such as hazelnut, caramel, vanilla, Oreo, strawberry, coconut, and orange, while focusing on the trending applications of chocolate-almond ingredients like almond butter, almond milk, almond paste, and almond flour.
Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how to navigate supply chain shifts and formulate with fewer cocoa inputs, equipping them with the knowledge to innovate and enhance their product offerings in the chocolate category. This session is essential for confectionery professionals looking to stay ahead of market trends and explore new avenues for growth.
“We are delighted to have Harbinder Maan from the Almond Board of California join us at Confectionery Live,” said Hannah Larvin, Editor of International Confectionery Magazine. “Her expertise in alternative ingredient applications and her forward-thinking approach to chocolate formulation will provide invaluable insights for any business seeking to adapt and thrive in today’s market.”
Join this must-attend session to discover strategies for formulating through supply chain shifts and keeping your chocolate products at the forefront of consumer demand.
To attend Confectionery Live, register here.