National Starch Raises Prices

BRIDGEWATER, N.J.—National Starch Food Innovation (www.foodinnovation.com) raised prices across its food ingredients product portfolio in North America. The increase ranges from 7 percent to 10 percent on specialty products, depending on product complexity and processing required. “Based on the latest USDA [U.S. Department of Agriculture] estimates for the 2006/7 crop production, the projected carry over for the coming year is anticipated to fall below a critical threshold, resulting in significant increases in both cash and futures prices for corn,” said Anthony DeLio, divisional vice president and general manager, National Starch Food Innovation-North America. Further price increases may be required if costs continue to escalate; in addition, a premium of $2/cwt will be charged to North American customers requiring nongenetically modified (non-GMO), Identity Preserved (IP) certification for waxy-based food starches.