BANGKOK: One of the largest food and beverage exhibitions in the Asia region, Fi Asia Thailand 2025, held in Bangkok, (September 17-19) drew over 1,500 exhibitors from around the world.
The event showcased cutting-edge products and innovations aimed at shaping the future of food, with a noticeable surge in interest and development within the nutraceutical sector.
The opening ceremony delivered a strong message of collaboration, sustainability, and innovation, emphasising the industry’s role in building healthier and more resilient food systems across Asia and others.
Rose Rungphech Chitanuwat, Regional Portfolio Director Asean at Informa Markets, described the event as a significant opportunity for both industry players and end users, highlighting the mutual benefits across the sector.
“I’m delighted to witness the enthusiasm and optimism surrounding the future of food. These are vital industries with tremendous potential to elevate business and drive innovation,” she said.
In the Innovation Zone, curated by Innova Market Insights, attendees were introduced to breakthrough ingredient technologies that offered pioneering insights into the future of food and beverage development.
One of key highlights was the Healthy Ageing Summit, which focused on longevity and showcased cutting-edge research and innovations aimed at enhancing wellness for the ageing population.
The exhibition also featured ingredient innovation showcases from 10 participating countries, including Malaysia, Belgium, Canada, China, Ireland, India, Japan, Spain, Thailand, and the United States, each presenting unique solutions and advancements shaping the next generation of functional foods.
At a press conference, Rose Rungphech highlighted four key categories defining the future of food: functional food, medical food, organic food, and alternative protein.
She noted that alternative proteins, such as those derived from insects like crickets, have passed R&D testing and are ready for export as sustainable protein sources.
She said many of the innovations use existing raw materials, such as herbs, which grow abundantly across Asia.
One of the standout innovations came from Malaysian exhibitor Serai Malaya, which showcased the versatile potential of lemongrass through a range of creative applications.
Using a single ingredient, the company developed products such as tea beverages in both sliced and powdered forms, culinary stocks, and value-added ingredients for food and wellness products.
Noor Izra Jamaludin, Head of Corporate Administration, said Malaysia’s rich biodiversity and the global potential of its native herbs.
“Malaysia is abundant in herbs, and lemongrass is one of the easiest to grow. Its versatility offers huge potential for international markets,” she said. The company started in 2022.
Another unique attraction was a coffee alternative developed by a Korean company, made entirely without coffee beans. Using a blend of select raw ingredients, the product successfully mimics the taste and aroma of traditional coffee.
“Some people are allergic to coffee beans but still crave drinking coffee. We created this beverage specifically for them, so they, too, can enjoy a comforting cup without the risk,” said a company representative.
The innovation reflects a growing trend in inclusive food and beverage solutions, catering to diverse dietary needs and preferences.
The next Fi Asia event would be held in Indonesia in 2026.
