Food Processing - August 2009
to o P s s co o P s
Kha (Yes) They Can
Thailand’s booming food export business is something to behold.
N
either a worldwide H1N1 virus pandemic nor political unrest could keep me from exploring the exotic, exquisite, mysterious paradise of Thailand. My opportunity came when attending Thaifex–World of Food Asia, organized by the Thai Chamber of Commerce, Dept. of Export Promotion and Koelnmesse Pte. Ltd., in Bangkok May 13-15. In addition to being a popular tourism destination, Thailand’s vibrant export-led economy reflects its status as a preeminent trader to the world and logistics hub of Southeast Asia. Scrumptious tropical fruits and vegetables, seafood, frozen and
processed chicken, sugar cane, tea, coffee and rice are Thailand’s major exports, and the Thais want to expand their markets. Despite the worldwide economic crisis, there were 2,100 exhibitors at Thaifex, one of the few trade shows with increased attendance – 21,101 trade visitors and some 100,000 international buyers and visitors from China, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore and the U.S., a 40 percent increase compared to 2008. “More Asian manufacturers are producing more quality organic and Halal products,” said Michael Dreyer, managing director of Koelnmesse, which also sponsors the Anuga Fair in Cologne, Germany. “Halal-certified products could be the boom for the region, as there are 1.5 to 1.8 billion Muslims in Asia.” Food safety is a top priority in Thailand, as evidenced by the vast numbers of quality certifications prominently displayed in booths –
ISO 9001-2000, HACCP, GMP.
Food safety was also
82 • Food Processing August 2009
the primary emphasis during a plant tour at I.T. Foods Industries Co. Ltd., a seafood and prepared foods manufacturer; on our tour of the Halal kitchen of Thai Airways International, a member of the Star Alliance, which feeds passengers of most major airlines; and even during a walkabout at Thai Organic Farm. We shared the wonderful flavorful dips called nam prik, sampled the flavorful, spicy sauces and stews, pork wrapped in banana leaf, salads with every fresh herb known to man, perfectly prepared seafood, fresh fruit with intensely sweet flavors and fragrant curries to die for. Thailand is known as the “Rice Bowl of the World.” Thai Hom Mali Rice, naturally fragrant with a distinctive taste, is the most prestigious. During the show, we found some unique products including black colored duck Century Egg (also known as 1,000 year old eggs) from Kasmmchai Farm Group; Juthathip brand Tuna Fish Sauce consisting of vitamin
C, B2,
iron and potassium; and Conz Corn Stick, square spherical sticks with corn in the middle, which contain no trans fat, no MSG and no sodium by San SeSan Global in three flavors: Roasted Corn, Chocolate and Cheese. One of the most interesting concepts at the show was from C.P. Group, a supermarket chain. Most supermarkets deliver, but this one is setting up kiosks in office buildings and commuter train stations. Consumers can touch the screen and choose from a huge selection of groceries, including fresh meats, vegetables, fruits and prepared meals, which will be delivered to their home by CP Fresh Mart in time for dinner. As the store gets to know their taste, the kiosk also gives them suggestions and recipes.
Diane Toops, News & Trends Editor E-mail: dtoops@putman.net
blog with diane
Diane shares her opinion on food industry matters with anyone who will listen ... or read. every monday, Wednesday and Friday, she dishes up commentary, news and other scoops. First give her a read, then give her a piece of your mind: at
www.foodprocessing.com/toopsblog.
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