I.T.S. Secures Second Site to Expand Flavour Capacity

Things are about to get a whole lot tastier.

Following rapid year on year business growth, flavour experts, I.T.S has acquired a second facility, complete with a state-of-the-art flavour laboratory, close to its existing premises in Newbury, Berkshire.

Flavour innovation and application development at the heart of new I.T.S. site.

I.T.S’ new site will feature a modern innovation centre as well as customer product development areas. There will be new flavour creation laboratories, flavour sample bays and dedicated application spaces for bakery, dairy, beverage, and confectionery. The I.T.S microbrewery and bar, currently housed in the existing building and location of many a successful beer flavour tasting, will be given a facelift too and move to the new site.

Unbeatable lead times and trusted supply will be further supported.

New warehousing located there will hold both raw materials and finished product on-site. This will ensure that I.T.S can offer rapid turnround times and a stable supply to customers. The current I.T.S site will be converted into a purely manufacturing and technical site. This will increase production capacity, so allowing I.T.S to dramatically increase its flavour manufacturing capabilities.

Taking A Braver Flavour to the next level.

Established in 2009 by Mike Bagshaw, with the focus on bringing innovation and injecting some fun into the flavours sector, I.T.S now employs 24 people and supplies natural flavours throughout the food and beverage industries. Mike’s original vision remains at the heart of I.T.S and it is this approach to being ‘brave’ with flavour, while responding quickly to customer needs that has helped to drive the company’s success to date.

Mike Bagshaw, founder of I.T.S explains: “When I set up I.T.S 15 years ago at my kitchen table, I wanted to shake up the flavours industry, inject some real innovation and encourage customers to think outside the box. In recent years we have seen an explosion in popular culture, use of the internet and social media which, in turn, have fuelled fast changing food trends. As a proudly independent flavour house, we can keep on top of the latest trends and respond quickly to them, giving customers access to flavours which they may not be able to source easily from larger flavour suppliers.

Investing in the future and growth of natural flavour manufacturing. 

“The time has come to invest in the next stage of I.T.S’ growth and to expand to bigger and better facilities that will enable us not only to develop some fantastic new flavours but also give us the space to work directly with customers on product development and manufacture.
“These are exciting times for I.T.S and the whole team is looking forward to the next set of opportunities that this move will bring”.

I.T.S is hoping to move to its new premises by the end of the year.

Key Trends in Dairy – Dairy Innovation Strategies Conference 2024

It’s time to talk flavour trends in the dairy industry.

The I.T.S. team will be joining some of the biggest names of the dairy and dairy-free industry in Copenhagen at the Dairy Innovation Strategy Conference 2024.

The conference takes place on 24th – 25th of April at the AC Hotel Bella Sky, Copenhagen.

The yearly conference welcomes in the 10th year and the agenda looks bigger than ever. The conference offers a unique space for the dairy industry to network and discuss all the latest trends and technical developments. We’ll be on hand to cover all things flavour.

Taking the stage to talk about natural flavours in dairy and dairy-free.

Never one to turn down the chance to share our opinions on flavour – we’ll be taking to the stage to discuss flavour trends. Owner of I.T.S. Mike Bagshaw, will join a panel discussion focusing on key trends in dairy – enrichment, fortification, taste and ways of consumption.

Completing the panel lineup will be Vicky Davis (Global Marketing Director, FrieslandCampina), Johan Garssen (Chief Scientific Advisor, Danone), and Sarah Bjerre Lindboe (QEHS and Innovation Manager, Dragsbæk Group).

Experience and taste our latest and on-trend natural flavours.

After the dust has settled on our dairy trends panel discussion you’ll be able to find the team hanging around on a brightly coloured table showcasing our flavours. We’ll be pitching up and bringing along some of our favourites to show off. You’ll be able to sample classic core flavours and a braver flavour. We’ll also have something a little bit special, so make sure you pop by our table and have a taste. 

Heading to the event and want to catch up? Or maybe you just want to chat how our flavours could help you? Get in touch and we’d be happy to help. 


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Authentic Fruit Puree Natural Flavours

The fruitiest range of natural flavours have just got tastier.

Consumers are increasingly asking for natural flavour profiles and moving away from the sweeter confectionery styles. We love a foam banana as much as the next guy, but sometimes you just need that authentic taste. Make sure your flavours taste just like the real thing.

Fruit Puree Natural Flavours with Authentic Fruit Flavour

We’ve created a range of natural flavours that replicate the intense and powerful fruit flavour profiles of puree. The flavours give food and drink developers an authentic range of fruit flavoured ingredients. 

Following the success of our first batch of natural fruit puree flavours we released last year, we were challenged to keep the range growing. That’s why our development team has been working hard to extend the range. 

Natural Flavours That Just Keeping Giving.

We’ve analysed the data and picked out some more tasty fruits to add to the range. Check out what we’ve got below:

  • Pear Puree – Natural Flavour
  • Apple Puree – Natural Flavours
  • Blueberry Puree – Natural Flavour
  • Pineapple Puree – Natural Flavour
  • Guava Puree – Natural Flavour

Get in touch to request a sample to see what all the hype is about. 

Sometimes It’s About More Than Just Flavour – Flavours That Help Save on Costs.

We know, we know – it’s about all about flavour. Taste is everything after all. But we live in the real world and understand it needs to make sense financially.

That’s why our natural puree fruit flavours can help save on costs by reducing or removing the use of fruit purees. These flavours work perfectly alongside, or to replace completely. 

The Original Fruit Puree Natural Flavour Range.

Missed out on our first release of flavours? Don’t worry – check out the below list and request a sample:

  • Strawberry Puree – Natural Flavour
  • Raspberry Puree- Natural Flavour
  • Mango Puree – Natural Flavour
  • Cherry Puree – Natural Flavour
  • Peach Puree – Natural Flavour
  • Peach Puree – Natural Flavour
  • Apricot Puree – Natural Flavour
  • Blackberry Puree – Natural Flavour
  • Blackcurrant Puree – Natural Flavour

Want to know more? Need a flavour sample to try? Get in touch with the team and we’d be happy to help. 


REQUEST A FLAVOUR SAMPLE

A Braver Flavour is Heading to Beer X 2024

Where beer and natural flavours collide.

It’s that time of year again. One of our favourite dates on the calender – Beer X in Liverpool. From the 13th-14th of March, the who’s who of the UK brewing world meet under one roof. 

Get ready for a braver flavour at Beer X 2024.

Our team will be pitching up their stand once again in Liverpool to showcase some tasty natural flavours. We’ll be bringing some extra special treats this year – so don’t miss us on stand 140. 

After two hugely successful years in 2022 and 2023 – the team are heading back and ready to meet the brewing world. 

It’s all about celebrating independent breweries

As a proudly independent flavour supplier ourselves -we love to get involved in the independent brewing community and take on the full experience. 

Hosted by SIBA, Beer X also hosts the AGM and Members’ Conference, the independent beer and business awards presentations, plus a packed schedule of seminars, talks and panel debates from the beer industry’s leading voices.

What are you waiting for? Head over to the Beer X website and register for your ticket now

We’ll see you at the bar.

Natural Flavours On Show At InterSICOP 2024

I.T.S. showcasing natural flavours and flavour trends at InterSICOP 2024.

The I.T.S. team will be venturing to Madrid on 17-20th February for the annual InterSICOP exhibiton.

InterSICOP 2024 will once again become the meeting point for the entire bakery, patisserie, ice cream, coffee and equipment trade to offer the entire sector the latest trends that are impacting or will impact the industry worldwide.

A commercial tool to boost positioning, growth, and visibility and to provide serviceability and return on investment, InterSICOP is definitely “the place to be”.

Get ahead with flavour trends for bakery, confectionery, and ice cream.

Our baker and flavour specialists will be on hand to give you the lowdown on the latest flavour trends taking the market by storm. And the flavours that will take the flavours by storm in the future.

Taste and savour the I.T.S. flavoured baked treats.

We’ve been preparing something extra special for this one. Our team have been busy in the bakery creating some showstopper-tasting concepts. We’ll not only be bringing some tasty flavour trends, but also some unique Spanish flavours with the UK twist.

Interested. Click here to find out more about the event and sign up.

The Ultimate Extracted Pure Vanilla Flavour

Make your ice cream and cakes look and taste authentic with our new extracted pure Bourbon Vanilla powder.

Looking to boost a vanilla flavour with all-natural and pure ingredients? Do you want the authentic look of vanilla? Look no further than our extracted ground Bourbon Vanilla powder. A cost-effective vanilla powder that delivers visually and compliments the existing vanilla flavour.

This vanilla powder is made from vanilla pods that have been used to produce vanilla extract. The extracted natural and pure vanilla powder has a distinctive mild Bourbon Vanilla flavour that remains after the single extraction process. 

Extracting vanilla flavour to make pure Bourbon Vanilla powder.

The used vanilla pods are dried and finely milled to obtain a fine homogeneous powder. The vanilla powder has a mild vanilla and fruit flavour and aroma. It is perfect for adding to sauces, desserts and ice cream, to compliment the sensory and visual appeal.

Request a Bourbon Vanilla powder sample.

The extracted Bourbon Vanilla ground is:

  • Kosher Certified
  • Vegetarian Suitable
  • Vegan Suitable
  • Allergen-free

Get in touch to request a sample to see how it can work for you.


REQUEST A SAMPLE

Bravest Flavour Trends for Food and Drink 2024

FLAVOUR TREND FORECAST FOR 2024

Take a journey into the future of flavour. Our team of natural flavour experts have connected the dots to pull together the bravest flavour trends for the year ahead.

We’ve tracked down countless online research platforms, trawled the supermarkets, not to mention eating and drinking our way through countless cafes, bars and restaurants across the globe. 

Explore our top flavour tips below:

NEWFOUND NOSTALGIA

Consumers love a trip down memory lane. Make sure you revisit popular flavours from the past, but with an added newfound twist. Nostalgic dessert flavours are big, but now it’s time to get braver with a new spin. Bring old flavours into 2024.

Put your own spin on: Marzipan, Custard, Sherbet, Gingerbread & Candy Floss.

Request a sample.

FOREVER FLORAL

Floral has officially hit the mainstream. Floral and botanicals have been around for a while, but mainly in the premium sectors. It’s now being seen with much wider distribution. These floral flavours can be a little different, so make sure you pair with something fruity. 

Start blossoming with: Elderflower, Rose, Orange Blossom, Hibiscus & Geranium.

Request a sample.

CREATIVE CARAMEL

Salted caramel, and now caramelised biscuit. There is simply no stopping the popularity of caramel based flavours. Anything with caramel seems to be going down a storm. Make sure you are being creative with caramel.

Sweeten up with: Salted Caramel Latte, Caramelised Apple, Blonde Chocolate, Caramelised Biscuit & Dulce De Leche.

Request a sample.

creative caramel flavour trend

BARBIE WORLD

Hear us out on this one. This isn’t just about Barbie. It’s about joining in with pop culture and mainstream trends. Create a flavour to join in with the conversation – just make sure it’s the right one. Timing is everything with this trend. 

Start creating your own with: Smokey Caramel, Neopolitan, Toasted Popcorn, Jalapeno & Spiced Apple.

Request a sample.

FOR REAL FRUITS

Consumers are increasingly looking for natural flavour profiles and moving away from the sweeter confectionery styles. Authenticity is a big deal in food and drink in 2024. Make sure your flavours taste just like the real thing.

Keep it real with: Pineapple Puree, Blueberry Puree, Passion Fruit Puree, Raspberry Puree & Apricot Puree. 

Request a sample.

peach flavour trend

A BRAVER FLAVOUR

Our favourite trend and one that is relevant every year. There is never a time when it’s ok to be boring. Make sure you are keeping things fresh. A top tip is to pair a braver flavour with a more established flavour profile to make sure your product has maximum appeal. 

Dare to be different with: Katsu Curry, Mangosteen, Smokey Strawberry, Tigers Blood & Manao.

Request a sample.

Not enough for you? In need of some more detail? A stickler for facts and figures? Get in touch to request our full Flavour Trends 2024 report to take a deep dive into the world of flavour. 


DOWNLOAD FLAVOUR REPORT

What’s Hot this Christmas in UK Supermarkets

Food and Drink Trends this Christmas.

Now the dust has settled and supermarkets are stuffed to capacity with glitz and glamour, we jumped head first into the sparkliest aisle in the supermarket. 

Discover what’s hot this Christmas with food and drink in UK supermarkets.

Mince Pies, but not as we know them.

Finally! Mince Pies are getting a little more exciting. We’ve got nothing against a good old mince pie, it’s just that we felt they could do with a facelift. 

Luckily, our prayers were answered. Taking inspiration from the Hot Cross Bun category we’ve started to see a rise in premium flavoured mince pies.

A special shout out to the chocolate and cherry mince pies at Asda. 

i.t.s. flavour trends chocolate and cherry mince pies

Chocolate, any way you want it. 

If it’s not broke, don’t fix it. Chocolate isn’t going anywhere. 

But, in true braver flavour spirit – it’s chocolate ramped up. Mint chocolate, salted chocolate, blonde chocolate, orange chocolate. Make sure you are doing something interesting with it.  

Our special shout-out goes to Tesco with their White Forest flavoured ice cream – yum. 

I.T.S. flavour trends white forest flavour ice cream

Berries, with a little bit of Christmas spice.

We’ve been tracking this one for a while. We first spotted it launched in Harrods when we indulged in their mulled berry-filled doughnuts. 

Since then we’ve been singing its praises to anyone that will listen – hoping it will catch on this Christmas. And, guess what – it’s here. 

Our shout-out goes to Aldi’s Mixed Berry Cider which even has the excitement of glitter – and who doesn’t love a little shimmer at Christmas? 

I.T.S. flavour trends mulled berry

Caramel, you can’t escape it, but why would you want to?

We set you the challenge of trying to avoid caramel this Christmas. Impossible. Everywhere you look another flavour pairing boasts the caramel label.

Leading the way is Caramelised Biscuit. We are pretty sure almost every brand has its own offering at the moment. 

Special shout-out? We couldn’t choose just one. Just get out there and fill your basket with this indulgent flavour. 

 

I.T.S. christmas trends caramelised biscuit

Christmas, the perfect time for flavour. 

There are so many other exciting flavours we’ve seen rising in popularity this Christmas.

Flavours like spiced apple, brown butter, candy cane, marmalade, spiced rum, and almond are some of the tasty flavours to make sure you try this Christmas. 

Don’t forget – if you’re looking ahead to next year, get in touch to request some natural flavour samples to get your development started early.  

I.T.S. christmas flavour trends

REQUEST CHRISTMAS FLAVOUR SAMPLES

I.T.S. Supports West Berkshire Christmas Toy Appeal

Giving something back this Christmas.

The I.T.S. team will once again be supporting the West Berkshire Toy Appeal this Christmas. The special cause is an important charity that helps ensure underprivileged children receive gifts at Christmas. 

Last year we were introduced to the charity by our very own, Sam Tucker, who works in our Technical and Quality teams. Sam was alerted to the fact that donations were down and asked I.T.S. Founder, Mike Bagshaw, if I.T.S. could step in. 

After seeing the help and joy the donations spread last year, we committed to continuing donations to the West Berkshire Toy Appeal. 

Click here to find out more and find out how can get involved with the West Berkshire Toy Appeal. 

A Day in the Life of Natural Flavour Manufacturing

Understanding Natural Flavours.

In September 2023, leading food and drink publisher, Food Manufacture, came to visit I.T.S. HQ for a quick tour of what life is like in the world of flavour making. 

A day in the life of I.T.S and natural flavour manufacturing.

We love it when friends come to visit at I.T.S. – that is why our door is always open to customers and suppliers to pop by and say hello whenever they are in town. Our good friends from Food Manufacture (Bethan Grylls, Editor, and William Dodds Deputy Editor) approached us to ask if they could come and shoot a short video highlighting what goes on in the day of a natural flavour manufacturer.  Never one to pass up an opportunity, we obliged and welcomed the team on-site. 

Natural flavours don’t have to be so secretive

Why is it that most natural flavour companies are so secretive about their work? We love sharing how we do things and are happy to shout it from the rooftops. 

That’s why we gave a special tour to Food Manufacture to show them all about what we do. We gave a complete tour of our facilities- test bakery, flavour library, flavour production facility, and beverage development suite – even our very own bar! 

Step inside I.T.S. flavours

Click here to watch the video and find out more about what Food Manufacture had to say about their day exploring I.T.S.