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Sauces and gravies

Sauces and gravies are liquid or semi-liquid condiments that are used to enhance the flavour and texture of food. They are typically made from a combination of ingredients such as herbs, spices, vegetables, fruits, and other flavourings. They are often thickened with starch or roux to create a smooth, cohesive texture.

Sauces are typically used to add flavour and moisture to cooked dishes, while gravies enhance the flavour and texture of meat dishes, such as roasts and stews. Sauces and gravies come in a wide range of flavours and styles, including classic French sauces like béchamel, hollandaise, béarnaise, and Asian-style sauces like soy sauce, teriyaki, and hoisin.

Some common types of sauces and gravies include:

Tomato sauce: Made from tomatoes, onions, garlic, and other seasonings, tomato sauce is a versatile sauce that can be used in various dishes, including pasta dishes, pizzas, and stews.
Béchamel sauce: A classic French sauce made from butter, flour, and milk, béchamel sauce is often used as a base for creamy sauces and is commonly used in dishes like macaroni and cheese and lasagna.
Gravy: A thick, savoury sauce made from the drippings of cooked meat, combined with flour, stock, and other seasonings, gravy is commonly used to enhance the flavour of roasted meats like turkey and beef.
Pesto sauce: A traditional Italian sauce made from basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, pesto sauce is often used as a topping for pasta dishes and as a condiment for sandwiches and pizzas.
Soy sauce: A salty, umami-rich sauce made from fermented soybeans, soy sauce is a staple condiment in many Asian cuisines and is commonly used as a dipping sauce for sushi, stir-fried dishes, and noodle dishes.

Sauces and gravies are an important part of many cuisines worldwide and are used to add flavour and complexity to a wide variety of dishes.

The market scope for sauces and gravies is extensive, as these condiments are a staple in many cuisines worldwide. The global market for sauces and gravies is driven by increasing demand for convenience foods, changing food habits and preferences, and the growing popularity of international cuisines.

The sauces and gravies market is divided into segments based on factors such as product type, distribution channel, and region. Some popular product types of sauces and gravies include tomato sauce, soy sauce, BBQ sauce, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, among others.

The distribution channels for sauces and gravies include supermarkets and hypermarkets, online retailers, convenience stores, and specialty stores. The increasing popularity of online retail channels has also contributed to the market’s growth for sauces and gravies.

The market for sauces and gravies is also influenced by the growing trend of clean-label products, which has increased demand for organic and natural ingredients in these condiments. Additionally, the rising demand for vegan and vegetarian products has led to an increase in the development of plant-based sauces and gravies.

Some of the players in sauces and gravies manufacturing are-

Nestle S.A.
Unilever PLC
The Kraft Heinz Company
Conagra Brands, Inc.
McCormick & Company, Inc.
Campbell Soup Company
General Mills, Inc.

The commercial processing of sauces and gravies includes following steps:

Sourcing of ingredients: The first step in the commercial production of sauces and gravies is the sourcing of ingredients, which can include vegetables, fruits, spices, herbs, meats, and grains. The ingredients must be of high quality and meet the manufacturer’s specifications.
Processing: Once the ingredients are sourced, they are typically cleaned, cut, and cooked using various methods such as boiling, roasting, or sautéing. The cooked ingredients are blended with other ingredients like vinegar, sugar, salt, and preservatives to create the desired sauce or gravy.
Packaging: The next step is packaging, which involves filling the sauce or gravy into bottles, cans, or pouches. The packaging must be carefully designed to protect the product from spoilage and damage during transportation and storage.
Quality Control: Throughout the production process, quality control checks are performed to ensure that the product meets the required standards for taste, consistency, and safety.
Distribution: Once the sauces and gravies are packaged, they are distributed to retailers, food service companies, and other customers. Distribution may involve shipping the product to local or international markets.