ISM Ingredients 2026 to Spotlight Sustainable and Innovative Solutions for Sweets and Snacks Sector
New trade fair format debuts alongside ProSweets Cologne and ISM to address resilience, reformulation and clean-label demands.
From 1 to 4 February 2026, Cologne will become the global hub for the sweets and snacks industry as ISM Ingredients makes its debut alongside ProSweets Cologne and ISM. The new format focuses squarely on raw materials and ingredients, addressing key challenges such as sustainability, reformulation, and shifting consumer preferences.
ISM Ingredients will bring together ingredient specialists offering innovative solutions for flavour, texture, colour and nutrition. From freeze-dried fruits and plant-based proteins to natural sweeteners and colouring concentrates, exhibitors will showcase how to reformulate for clean-label products without sacrificing indulgence.
Reformulation in the Spotlight
As demand grows for reduced sugar, salt and fat, exhibitors such as Döhler, GNT, SternEnzym and Freeze-Dry Foods will present cutting-edge technologies to help manufacturers meet reformulation targets. Innovations include natural sweeteners like stevia-derived glycosides and fibre-rich inulin from chicory, which can both lower sugar content and support gut health.
Advanced aroma and flavour solutions are also enabling producers to maintain a full taste profile despite sugar reduction. Natural sugar boosters and E-number-free fruit flavours are helping brands deliver ‘sweet’ experiences with fewer calories.
Colour with a Conscience
Natural colourants will also take centre stage. Ingredients based on violet sweet potatoes or other plant-based materials are being used to deliver bright hues and clean-label appeal. Tailored formulations will be showcased for applications such as fruit gums, toffees and jellies, all with improved sustainability credentials.
Cocoa Alternatives Amid Rising Costs
With cocoa prices at historic highs, cocoa alternatives are gaining traction. Among the key innovations at ISM Ingredients is a new development by Döhler and UK start-up Nukoko. Their patented process uses fermented fava beans to replicate chocolate’s flavour, promising up to 90% lower CO₂ emissions and 40% less sugar.
Such initiatives highlight how suppliers are addressing both environmental concerns and market volatility.
Strong Industry Response
The launch of ISM Ingredients reflects Koelnmesse’s strategic pivot toward strengthening its offering for the ingredients segment. Early industry enthusiasm is clear: 70% of exhibition space was booked within eight weeks of opening. The event will feature a dedicated congress and innovation showcase, developed in collaboration with future agency Haute Innovation, to support networking, knowledge sharing and start-up visibility.
With exhibitors such as Brenntag, Dreidoppel, Sethness Roquette and Olam Food Ingredients on board, ISM Ingredients is set to provide a comprehensive overview of future-ready solutions for a rapidly evolving sector.
As the industry faces increasing pressure to innovate sustainably, ISM Ingredients 2026 aims to serve as the key B2B platform for sourcing resilient, health-conscious and flavourful ingredient solutions.