Galactic’s new oregano flavor promotes freshness and taste

Galactic’s new oregano flavor promotes freshness and taste 

IFFA (Frankfurt Messe, 3-8 May 2025), hall 11, booth B98: Fermentation know-how is the key to the natural ingredient innovation Galimax Flavor O-50.

Brussels (Belgium), May 2025 – At IFFA 2025, Galactic, a world leader in antimicrobials, lactic acid and its derivatives, unveils Galimax Flavor O-50 – a natural solution for bringing real oregano flavor to meat and plant-based proteins whilst also preserving their freshness. During the show, Galactic holds live cooking demonstrations, giving visitors the opportunity to see first-hand how this clean label ingredient can help manufacturers develop additive- and preservative-free recipes that not only taste great but also contribute to the fight against food waste.

Galimax Flavor O-50 is inspired by two macro-market trends that have conspired to create a white space for natural fermentation-inspired innovations. Firstly, consumers are eschewing anything artificial sounding and seeking out natural products as they link ingredients derived from nature with healthy diets[1]. At the same time, food waste is becoming a top environmental priority for consumers, with one in two taking action to minimize food waste[2]. As a natural-origin solution that can help maintain freshness and high quality during the entire shelf-life and beyond, Galimax Flavor O-50 straddles both trends.

The launch of Galimax Flavor O-50 follows the success of Galimax Flavor F-50 – Galactic’s natural basil flavoring ingredient – and taps into the increasing popularity of herbal flavors. Herbs were the fastest growing botanical flavor in food & beverage launches between 2019 and 2024[1]. Both Galimax herbal flavoring solutions are produced via an extraction process that draws on age-old infusion and fermentation techniques and Galactic’s proprietary technology to harness the flavor and preservation qualities that are inherent in natural herbs. Real leaves are infused in a vinegar solution to produce a clean-label flavoring ingredient with natural freshness properties.

Galimax Flavor O-50 delivers a rich and savory aromatic profile, dominated by an intense herbal aroma that comes from the natural oregano leaves. Subtle notes of broth-like character enhance umami depth, warm spice and delicate nutty undertones, whilst a hint of vinegar-like acidity adds complexity. This well-rounded sensory profile makes it an ideal fit for a range of savory applications, including ready meals such as lasagna or spiced dishes, sauces, dressings, meat and poultry. Trials conducted in Galactic’s application lab have validated Galimax Flavor O-50’s performance in all these applications and the company’s technologists are currently exploring further uses, including bechamel sauce and pasta salad.

Maria Montalva, NPD process & product manager at Galactic, comments: “Fermentation experience amassed over many years has enabled us to develop these infused flavors, which are a unique proposition for the industry. We know that Galimax Flavor O-50 is exactly the type of ingredient manufacturers are looking for. It offers dual functionality, elevating the taste and aroma of savory products whilst keeping them fresher for longer – thereby supporting manufacturers in their quest to keep their ingredient labels clean and short and to reduce food waste.”
 

[1] Innova Database
[1] Innova Health and Nutrition Survey 2024, Innova Lifestyle & Attitudes Survey 2024
[2] Innova Lifestyle & Attitudes Survey 2024