Growth in the demand for processed foods is driving the burgeoning preservatives market in India, according to a new market report quoted by FoodNavigator.com.

Frost & Sullivan's Indian Market for Preservatives Catering to the Foods and Personal Care Industries says the market earned revenues of US$16 million in 2005 and is likely to reach US$56.5 million in 2012. "The Indian food and personal care industries are rapidly moving toward further processing and value addition," said Frost & Sullivan research analyst Aparna Singh.

Most food and personal care products are susceptible to decay by microorganisms and oxidation over time. The use of preservatives, such as antioxidants and antimicrobials, is a common method to prevent this and extend the shelf life of food.

In many developed markets, however, consumers are increasingly demanding that food be free from synthetic or chemical preservatives. Many manufacturers are exploring new food processing and preservation methods, especially in the area of chilled foods, which now make up a high percentage of the new product offerings on the market.

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