The high protein content of starch co-products makes them a very good meat substitute for pet food, while native and modified starches are used as binders and thickeners. Other starch products are also used as basic ingredients, for example as a source of fibres, or for the sweetening and colouring of pet food.
In late 2023, the European Commission is due to publish its proposal for a legislative framework on sustainable food systems (FSFS). This proposal, once adopted, will likely provide the framework for a multitude of specific actions to help promote a sustainable food system going forward for years to come. It is of paramount importance to get that right.
This paper aims to demonstrate the substantial contribution so far of the EU starch industry to a sustainable food system, as well as what core needs our sector has for that contribution to continue, and even increase.