A vital link in the food and feed chain.
Primary Food Processors represent a key link in the food chain, transforming agricultural raw materials into safe and high quality food ingredients and feed materials. Acting as the bridge between farmers and downstream industries, the sector plays an essential role in ensuring the availability of food, feed and bio based products across Europe.
Primary Food Processors handle more than 220 million tonnes of agricultural raw materials each year and are among the largest users of cereals, starch potatoes, sugar beet and oilseeds in the European Union.
The sector transforms raw agricultural materials into consumable ingredients and produces essential food inputs such as flour, sugar, starch, vegetable oils and plant proteins. These products support food security, strengthen supply chains and contribute to innovation across both traditional and emerging food markets.
Its outputs are used throughout the economy. Cereal flours supply bakeries and food manufacturers, sugars support food, industrial and energy applications, starches serve food and industrial sectors, vegetable oils are used in both food and bio based industries, plant proteins support alternative food products and animal feed, and cocoa remains a key ingredient in confectionery production.
Beyond food production, primary food processors contribute to a wide range of sectors. Co products are used in animal feed, while other outputs support the bioeconomy through biofuels and renewable materials. Additional applications can be found in packaging, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, demonstrating the sector’s broad economic contribution.
Primary Food Processors are also actively investing in sustainability by reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency, supporting biodiversity and implementing strict European sustainability standards throughout their operations.
The Primary Food Processors of the EU bring together the European Association of Sugar Manufacturers (CEFS), the European Cocoa Association (ECA), the European Flour Milling Association, the European Vegetable Protein Association (EUVEPRO), the European Vegetable Oil and Proteinmeal Industry (FEDIOL), and the European Starch Industry Association (Starch Europe).
