By Dr. Jörg Häseler, Chefredakteur Sweets Processing

The entire food industry is currently facing a number of challenges: On the one hand, there are the geopolitical conflicts and a resulting energy crisis, and on the other hand, the shortage of raw materials and the associated increase in prices, especially for cocoa, are causing quite a headache. In addition, the disruptions in the supply chains are putting a strain on the existing framework conditions and objectives. Irrespective of this, the demands of climate change and the necessary transition to a more sustainable economy continue and lead to additional conflicts of objectives. Furthermore, legal requirements and other framework conditions need to be taken into account.

Despite these challenges, the food industry still manages to deliver a rich and varied range of products of unrivalled quality. Behind this is the commitment of agriculture, the producers of the ingredients and all the technology providers, which for many is hidden from view, and above all logistics and quality management. The latter topic is now featured on the cover. It integrates the topic of hygiene. So you will still find it here. It is in the producers' best interest to focus on quality, because every commercially active company wants its customers to come back.

I would like to thank all those involved in the production of the range for their tireless efforts, because at the end of the day I am also a consumer who, as a city dweller, usually makes his choice in the supermarket and is reluctant to do without the products of the confectionery industry.