XIAMEN, CHINA — Bunge Loders Croklaan (BLC), the edible oils business of Bunge Ltd., opened a new edible oils processing facility in China. Located in Xiamen, within the Fujian region of Southern China, the new facility expands BLC’s ability to deliver plant-based specialty oils and fats ingredients for the food and foodservice industry.

“China is an extremely dynamic and growing food market, and this state-of-the-art processing plant in Xiamen is illustrative of our commitment to not only invest in key local markets, but also create new opportunities for our customers around the world,” said Manuel Laborde, vice-president of Asia at BLC.

Reflecting BLC’s commitment to work closely together with its customers, the facility also includes a Creative Studio, designed to develop innovative ingredient and food solutions for the Chinese market.

The oils operations in the Xiamen facility includes a range of production processes, from refining of oils and modification of its fractions to packaging. It also holds a pilot plant and quality control lab equipped with technology in analytical capabilities to ensure strict quality controls and compliance with regulatory requirements.

“Bunge Loders Croklaan is a leader in the sustainable plant-based oils and fats industry,” said Katherine Huang, general manager, Bunge China Food & Ingredients. “This new facility’s advanced processing capabilities combined with our Creative Studio are a real testament to our commitment to serving both the Chinese and global markets in new and innovative ways.”

The Xiamen factory grand opening ceremony took place on July 18. Aaron Buettner, senior vice-president of BLC, was joined by local officials from the Fujian province to celebrate the facility’s new opening. More than 150 customers, suppliers and representatives from industrial associations and national academic communities participated.

BLC is a global producer and supplier of specialty plant-based oils and fats for the food manufacturing industry. It operates as part of the global B2B edible oils business of Bunge Ltd. Its products are used in a wide range of applications, from bakery and confectionery to culinary and infant nutrition.