Unicorn Ingredients: new seed supplier targets bakers

"Sesame seeds have risen in price by almost 100 per cent in a year," says Horan. Poppy seeds are also "very expensive" although a swelling in recent stocks means some price relief is likely, he adds.

In a further example, sister site ConfectioneryNews.com reported that a global shortage of licorice roots in all producing countries, particularly Iran and China had put upward pressure on prices by more than a third for this natural sweetener and flavour.

While prices vary according to the block, paste or spray dried form for this popular extract, lots of between 10 and 20 tonnes are demanding 4.75 to 4.80 a kilo, compared with about 3.25 a year ago, with the 5 a kilo barrier hovering on the horizon.

Horan claims that measuring performance of suppliers over time is a key method to test reliability. A factor that both himself, and co-founder Nicola Divers, suggest they can tap into as a result of their time in the industry.

Most recently, Horan was divisional director of the seeds and natural products division at specialist ingredient supplier Fuerst Day Lawson and Nicola Divers the commercial director of the same firm.

"What we can do is take much of the uncertainty out. Our close links with suppliers mean we can set up a secure supply base tailor made for every one of our clients," comments Horan.

"We know the growers, the traders and the processors. We can help make the right choices for every type of food need," says Nicola Divers.

Unicorn Ingredients, with a portfolio that also carries pulses and grains is arguably also keen to tap into the growing attention from bakers for seeds and grains; attention supported by growing evidence that suggests grains, in particular, may alleviate a range from health problems.