NETHERLANDS – Cargill, a leading U.S. agro-industrial company, is making significant strides in the Netherlands by investing heavily in expanding its spray-drying facility in Deventer.
This initiative, announced on September 18, 2024, aims to enhance production capabilities and meet the increasing demand for high-quality, nutrient-rich goat’s milk powder.
The expansion project represents a commitment to sustainability and innovation within the food industry.
The Deventer facility will see an investment of €40 million (US$44.7 million), reflecting Cargill’s strategic focus on producing specialised ingredients that cater to consumers’ evolving needs.
According to Niels Boetje, President of Cargill Netherlands, “This investment not only boosts our production capacity but also aligns with our commitment to sustainability and meeting consumer demands for nutritious food options.”
The facility is expected to create approximately 50 new jobs, contributing to local economic growth.
Several factors influence Cargill’s decision to expand its operations in the Netherlands. The country has established itself as a hub for food innovation and sustainability, providing an ideal environment for companies looking to develop cutting-edge solutions.
Boetje noted, “The Amsterdam Area’s reputation for agricultural ingenuity and its collaborative ecosystem are key reasons we continue to invest here.”
This region’s geographic advantages also facilitate efficient supply chains and access to diverse European markets.
The expansion comes when there is a growing consumer interest in goat’s milk products, particularly for their health benefits.
Goat’s milk is known for being more digestible than cow’s milk, and consumers seeking alternatives due to lactose intolerance or dietary restrictions often prefer it.
Cargill aims to capitalise on this trend by providing high-quality goat’s milk powder for various applications, including infant formula and nutritional supplements.
In addition to enhancing its production capabilities, Cargill focuses on sustainability initiatives within its operations.
The company has been actively involved in projects to reduce environmental impacts and promote responsible sourcing practices.
For instance, Cargill recently collaborated with Nestlé on sustainable grazing practices across 1.7 million acres in the U.S., further demonstrating its commitment to environmental stewardship.
Furthermore, Cargill’s partnerships extend beyond local endeavours; it has engaged with international organisations and startups dedicated to advancing sustainable food systems.
The company’s collaboration with Bflike, located at Wageningen University’s Food Valley Netherlands innovation hub, exemplifies this approach. Bflike focuses on developing plant-based meat alternatives that complement Cargill’s extensive ingredient offerings.
As Cargill moves forward with its expansion plans in Deventer, it remains committed to addressing global food challenges through innovation and sustainable practices.
Boetje emphasised this vision: “By investing in our facilities and fostering partnerships that prioritize sustainability, we are positioning ourselves as leaders in the transition towards a more sustainable food system.”
Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the WorldHERE.
