After years of negotiations, the agreement is expected to significantly reduce, and in many cases eliminate, tariffs across a wide range of categories, including processed and value-added food products.

But beyond the policy shift, this signals something bigger.

For food brands looking at international expansion, Australia is becoming a more accessible and more competitive market.

A new chapter for food export to Australia

For businesses, trade agreements function as powerful market enablers, far beyond their political dimension.

With barriers to entry expected to decrease, food export to Australia becomes more viable for European brands that previously faced pricing pressure due to import duties.

This creates a more level playing field. But it also accelerates competition.

Because when access increases, so does the number of players entering the market.

Lower tariffs don’t mean lower complexity

At first glance, reduced tariffs suggest a clear opportunity: improved margins, stronger pricing strategies, and easier market entry.

In reality, exporting food to Australia remains a structured and demanding process.

Success still depends on:

• Regulatory compliance and product adaptation
• Cold chain and logistics reliability
• Strong local distribution
• Understanding of retail and foodservice dynamics

In other words, access becomes easier, execution remains critical.

The role of frozen and processed food categories

One of the most relevant implications of the EU–Australia Trade Agreement is its impact on processed food export.

Categories such as frozen and ready-to-bake products are increasingly aligned with global consumption trends, driven by convenience, consistency, and operational efficiency.

For brands operating in frozen food, this creates a strong positioning advantage. As food export to Australia becomes more accessible, these categories are particularly well placed to scale, provided the right operational structure is in place.

From exporting products to building brands

Trade agreements do not create demand, but conditions for growth. And in this context, exporting is no longer just about logistics.

It is about:

• Brand positioning
• Market consistency
• Point-of-sale execution
• Supporting partners with the right tools

As more brands enter the Australian market, differentiation becomes essential.

What this means for food brands

The EU–Australia Trade Agreement reflects a broader shift in global trade.

For food brands, it signals that:

• New markets are becoming more accessible
• Competition is increasing faster
• Execution is becoming the key differentiator

Food export to Australia may not have been a priority for many European brands until now.

That is changing. Trade agreements create opportunity.

For food brands, the EU–Australia Trade Agreement is a strategic signal.

The real question is no longer if markets become accessible. It is those who are ready to execute when they do.

O conteúdo Zero tariffs, new markets: what the EU–Australia Trade Agreement means for food export to Australia aparece primeiro em BY Foods.

Something remarkable happened at Expo 2025 Osaka.

Inside the Portugal Pavilion, a small golden tart – the Portuguese egg tart, known in Portugal as the pastel de nata – began attracting attention from visitors across Japan. Flaky, creamy, and rooted in centuries of Portuguese pastry tradition, it quickly became one of the most talked-about desserts of the event.

Day after day, visitors formed lines to taste the pastel de nata, Portugal’s most iconic pastry.

More than 2.000 tarts were sold daily, with peak days reaching 2,500 units. Many visitors returned for a second taste. Others shared the discovery on social media, turning the Portuguese custard tart into one of the unexpected culinary highlights of the pavilion.

The egg tart they were tasting was produced by Nata Pura.

And as of 11 March 2026, the same Portuguese egg tarts that delighted visitors at Expo Osaka are now available in the frozen section of Costco Wholesale warehouses across Japan, with Costco Korea coming soon.

For the first time, Japanese consumers can enjoy authentic Portuguese custard tarts at home.

A pastry with centuries of history

The pastel de nata is one of Portugal’s most famous pastries.

Its origins date back more than 300 years, when monks in Portuguese monasteries created recipes using egg yolks left over from other culinary processes.

The result was a pastry unlike any other:

• a crisp, laminated puff pastry shell
• a rich and creamy custard filling
• a caramelised top with characteristic dark spots (a natural result of caramelisation and a hallmark of authentic pastéis de nata)

Over time, the Portuguese custard tart became a symbol of Portuguese gastronomy and one of the country’s most recognisable desserts.

Today, it is increasingly enjoyed far beyond Portugal.

Why the pastel de nata resonates in Japan

The enthusiastic response at Expo Osaka revealed something important: the Portuguese custard tart fits naturally within Japanese food culture.

Japanese consumers are known for their appreciation of:

• craftsmanship and technique
• balanced flavours
• attention to texture
• culinary authenticity

The pastel de nata combines all of these elements.

Crisp pastry layers contrast with smooth custard. The slightly caramelised top adds depth of flavour. And the product itself carries centuries of culinary tradition.

It is a pastry that feels both new and familiar at the same time.

The reception at Expo – where batches sold out within hours – confirmed that Japanese consumers respond strongly to this combination of tradition and quality.

From the Portugal Pavilion to Costco Japan

Following the success at Expo 2025 Osaka, Nata Pura’s pastéis de nata are now available in Costco Wholesale Japan, making it easier than ever for consumers to experience this iconic Portuguese dessert.

The 12-unit Original pack allows customers to enjoy the product at home while preserving the traditional characteristics that define the pastel de nata.

Thanks to modern freezing technology, the tarts are blast-frozen at peak quality, preserving flavour and texture until baking.

From freezer to toaster oven, they are ready in under 15 minutes, delivering the same sensory experience associated with freshly baked Portuguese custard tarts.

A recipe rooted in tradition

Each Nata Pura egg tart is produced in Portugal using a recipe inspired by the historic monastic origins of the pastel de nata.

The philosophy behind the product is simple:

• clean-label formulation
• natural ingredients only
• no preservatives
• no artificial additives
• no powdered ingredients

This commitment ensures that what consumers taste reflects the authenticity of traditional Portuguese pastry.

Once baked, the tart reveals its defining characteristics: a flaky puff pastry shell and a creamy custard centre topped with the signature caramelised finish.

The world’s most awarded pastel de nata

Over the years, Nata Pura has become one of the most internationally recognised brands dedicated to Portuguese egg tarts.

Among its distinctions are:

• Great Taste Award 2020 (UK)
• Superior Taste Award 2023 – International Taste Institute
• Monde Selection Award 2025

The brand’s production facilities are also certified under BRC, IFS, and Halal standards, supporting international distribution across a growing number of markets.

A natural step in a long relationship

Portugal and Japan share a historical connection dating back to the 16th century, when Portuguese sailors became the first Europeans to reach Japan.

This encounter left lasting traces in language, culture, and gastronomy.

Expo 2025 Osaka celebrated this historic relationship. The arrival of Portuguese custard tarts in Japanese retail marks another chapter in that story, bringing a traditional Portuguese product into everyday life for Japanese consumers.

Discover Portuguese egg tarts at Costco Japan

What began as a culinary discovery at Expo Osaka is now becoming part of daily life.

With Nata Pura pastéis de nata now available at Costco Japan, consumers can experience the flavour of one of Portugal’s most beloved pastries from the comfort of their homes.

Warm from the oven or toaster oven in just minutes, the Portuguese custard tart continues its journey from Lisbon’s historic bakeries to kitchens around the world.

And in Japan, that journey is only just beginning.

O conteúdo Portuguese egg tarts arrive at Costco Japan and Costco Korea: meet the most awarded pastel de nata in the world aparece primeiro em BY Foods.

In this environment, frozen pastry has evolved from a simple convenience product into a strategic solution for modern foodservice operations.

Today, frozen bakery products allow businesses to maintain quality, optimise workflows, and scale across multiple locations, while responding to changing consumer expectations. Companies such as Nata Pura, known for producing traditional Portuguese pastries for international markets, illustrate how frozen bakery products can support global foodservice operators without compromising authenticity.

The growing complexity of foodservice operations

Foodservice operators are navigating a much more demanding landscape than they were just a few years ago.

Across markets, businesses must manage:

• labour shortages in kitchens and bakeries
• increasing ingredient costs
• pressure for speed and efficiency
• the need for consistent quality across locations

At the same time, consumers expect bakery products to look and taste freshly made.

Balancing these demands has become increasingly challenging, especially for businesses operating in multiple locations or markets.

Frozen pastry offers a practical way to simplify these operations without compromising product quality.

Consistency across locations

For many foodservice brands, consistency is one of the biggest operational challenges.

A coffee shop chain with ten locations – or a hospitality group operating across multiple countries – must ensure that customers experience the same product every time they visit.

Frozen pastry helps standardise this process.

Products prepared in controlled production environments can guarantee:

• consistent recipes
• stable baking performance
• uniform product quality

This allows foodservice operators to deliver the same pastry experience regardless of location, equipment, or staff expertise

Simplifying kitchen operations

Another major advantage of frozen bakery products is operational simplicity.

Many foodservice establishments do not have specialised pastry chefs on staff. Preparing pastries from scratch requires time, training and precise processes that not every kitchen can support.

Frozen pastry significantly reduces this complexity.

Instead of managing multiple ingredients and production steps, operators can focus on a simplified workflow:

1. store the product frozen
2. bake or finish on-site
3. serve fresh to customers

This approach reduces preparation time while maintaining the freshness consumers value.

Reducing waste and improving planning

Food waste remains a major issue in the hospitality industry.

Fresh pastry products often have a very short shelf life, forcing businesses to either overproduce or risk running out during peak hours.

Frozen products offer greater flexibility.

Because they can be stored for longer periods and prepared in controlled quantities, businesses can better manage demand throughout the day.

This flexibility helps operators:

• reduce waste
• optimise inventory management
• improve cost control

For high-volume operations, these efficiencies can have a significant impact on profitability.

Supporting international food concepts

Another reason frozen pastry is gaining relevance is its role in global food distribution.

Today, foodservice businesses increasingly want to offer authentic products from different culinary traditions. However, producing these products locally can be difficult without specialised knowledge or ingredients.

Frozen pastry allows traditional products to travel beyond their place of origin while maintaining their identity.

A classic example is our pastel de nata, the iconic Portuguese custard tart. Through modern frozen bakery production and cold-chain logistics, this traditional pastry can now be served in every corner across different continents while preserving its original characteristics.

For operators, this means they can offer distinctive products without needing complex production capabilities

Meeting modern consumer expectations

Consumers today are increasingly attentive to quality, authenticity and experience.

They expect bakery products to deliver:

• appealing visual presentation
• balanced flavour and texture
• freshness at the moment of consumption

Modern frozen pastry production technologies allow manufacturers to preserve product structure, flavour and texture throughout the freezing process.

As a result, the final baked product can closely match the characteristics of freshly prepared pastry.

This evolution has helped change the perception of frozen bakery products from a compromise solution to a professional tool for foodservice operators.

A strategic tool for scalable foodservice

As the foodservice industry continues to evolve, efficiency and scalability are becoming essential.

Businesses need solutions that allow them to expand operations while maintaining product quality and operational control.

Frozen pastry provides exactly that.

By simplifying preparation, ensuring consistency and enabling international distribution, frozen bakery products support foodservice operators in building reliable and scalable menus.

What was once considered a convenience product has become a key component of modern foodservice strategy.

O conteúdo Why frozen pastry is becoming a strategic choice for global foodservice aparece primeiro em BY Foods.

In today’s global Food & Beverage landscape, entering a new geography without structured analysis can quickly turn potential into exposure. Regulatory frameworks vary significantly, consumer expectations evolve constantly, and pricing pressures are more intense than ever. Internationalisation is no longer about reacting to interest; it is about assessing alignment. Before committing financial resources, adapting production lines or formalising agreements, brands must evaluate whether expansion is supported by evidence, operational capacity and strategic clarity.

1. Is there sustainable demand in this market?

One of the most common pitfalls in international market expansion for food brands is confusing initial curiosity with long-term demand. Interest from a distributor or retailer may indicate openness, but it does not necessarily confirm repeat purchase behaviour, consumer loyalty or scalable growth. Sustainable demand is revealed through measurable indicators: consistent category growth, shelf presence across multiple retailers, competitive density and established consumption patterns.

A product may appear innovative or premium in a foreign market, yet its success ultimately depends on how naturally it integrates into local habits. Does it align with taste preferences? Does it fit recognised consumption occasions? Is there cultural familiarity with similar formats? Products that require consumers to change behaviour significantly face higher barriers to adoption. Expansion decisions should therefore be grounded in evidence of repeat potential and structural category support, not merely in the appeal of novelty.

2. Does the product require strategic adaptation?

Rarely does a product transfer seamlessly across borders. Taste expectations, sweetness levels, portion sizes, packaging formats and even colour symbolism can differ from one market to another. Labelling regulations and compliance standards add further complexity, often requiring reformulation or redesign.

Yet adaptation is not only technical; it is also strategic. A product positioned as indulgent in one country may perform more effectively as an everyday option in another. Messaging built around tradition in one market might need to emphasise convenience or functionality elsewhere. The objective is to ensure relevance. Successful international market expansion for food brands preserves the core proposition while allowing flexibility in execution. Consistency builds recognition, but adaptability enables resonance.

3. Is the value proposition immediately clear?

In highly competitive retail environments, clarity determines impact. Consumers make rapid decisions, often within seconds, and products that require explanation struggle to secure attention. If the core benefit, whether quality, authenticity, health, convenience, or price, is not immediately visible, differentiation weakens.

This challenge becomes more pronounced in markets where private labels hold strong positions or where economic pressure shapes purchasing behaviour. In such contexts, brands must communicate value succinctly and convincingly. Before entering a new geography, organisations should be able to articulate in a single, precise statement why their product deserves space on shelf and in basket. When positioning feels diluted or overly complex, refinement is necessary. Clear value propositions reduce friction, support distributor negotiations and accelerate consumer adoption.

4. Are margins sustainable after international costs?

International expansion inevitably introduces additional cost layers. Logistics, warehousing, distributor margins, promotional investments and potential currency fluctuations all influence final profitability. A product that performs well domestically may see margins significantly compressed once these variables are accounted for.

Without rigorous financial modelling, volume growth can mask underlying vulnerability. Brands must assess whether their pricing structure can sustain international distribution without eroding brand equity or compromising positioning. Can the product maintain its intended quality perception while remaining competitive? Can it absorb promotional cycles demanded by retailers? Growth that undermines financial stability weakens long-term competitiveness. Sustainable expansion requires economic discipline alongside commercial ambition.

5. Is the organisation ready for long-term commitment?

Entering a new market is rarely a short-term initiative. Even with strong partners, building brand presence demands consistency, operational reliability and ongoing investment. Retailers expect dependable supply, distributors require strategic alignment and consumers need repeated exposure before habits form.

International market expansion for food brands therefore requires patience. Sporadic shipments, reactive pricing adjustments or inconsistent marketing support seldom create durable market presence. Beyond market attractiveness, the central question is organisational readiness. Does the company possess the internal resources, operational flexibility, and long-term vision required to support sustained expansion? It seems that opportunity alone is insufficient without commitment.

Global markets continue to offer significant opportunity for ambitious food brands. Consumer curiosity for international flavours remains strong, and cross-border trade is more accessible than ever. However, the conditions for success have matured. International market expansion for food brands is about preparation.

Validating demand, adapting strategically, protecting margins, and committing to the long term are not optional steps; they are foundational disciplines. The brands that succeed internationally are not necessarily those that enter first. They are those who enter with clarity, evidence, and resilience.

Entering a market may be a decision. Building one is a strategy.

O conteúdo International market expansion for food brands: 5 strategic questions aparece primeiro em BY Foods.

For years, a new flavour, a new format, or a new concept was often enough to win attention. If it felt exciting, it went to market.

Today, that approach is no longer enough.

Consumers are more informed, more selective and, above all, more intentional. They are not simply choosing what tastes good or what looks new. They are choosing products that fit their routines, support their health, justify their spending and align with their values. As a result, growth is increasingly driven not by novelty, but by relevance.

Recent global consumer and product launch data points to a clear shift in how food decisions are made. Instead of chasing trends, successful brands are responding to deeper behavioural changes. Across categories and markets, ten movements stand out as the strongest forces shaping purchases in 2026 trends.

Health becomes the baseline, not the bonus

The first and perhaps most visible shift is the normalisation of functional nutrition. Protein, for example, is no longer confined to sports or fitness audiences. It has become everyday fuel. Consumers associate it with energy, weight management, healthy ageing, and even mental performance. What used to live in protein powders and gym snacks is now spreading across bars, bakery, dairy, ready meals, and beverages. The expectation is simple: food should actively contribute to wellbeing. Nutrition is not a bonus anymore; it is the baseline.

A similar evolution is happening with digestive health. Gut health has moved from specialist conversations to mainstream concern, increasingly perceived as the foundation for overall wellness. Consumers connect digestion with immunity, energy levels, sleep quality and stress management. This explains the growing demand for fibre-rich products, fermented foods, probiotics and prebiotic drinks. Interestingly, the most successful products are not the most technical ones, but the ones that communicate benefits in a simple and natural way. “Good for your gut” resonates more than complex scientific language.

Experience still matters – but indulgence is smarter

At the same time, indulgence has not disappeared; it has simply matured. Consumers still want treats, but they want them to feel justified. Indulgence is becoming more multidimensional, combining pleasure with comfort, sensory richness, and, sometimes, a better-for-you angle. Texture, layering, premium ingredients, and emotional storytelling are increasingly important. A dessert is not just sweet; it is a moment of relaxation, a reward, or a small escape. The focus is less on excess and more on experience.

Beverages are emerging as one of the fastest innovation platforms in this new landscape. Drinks offer convenience, portability and frequent consumption moments, making them ideal carriers for functional benefits. Hydration, protein, vitamins, energy support and digestive claims are increasingly delivered in liquid formats. For many consumers, beverages feel like an easy, low-commitment way to “upgrade” their health habits. For brands, they offer faster trial and adoption compared to more complex food formats.

Plant-based is also entering a new phase. After years dominated by imitation products designed to replicate meat or dairy, consumers are showing a stronger preference for foods that stand on their own nutritional value. Legumes, seeds, grains and naturally protein-rich plants feel more authentic and trustworthy than highly processed substitutes. The conversation is shifting from replacement to nourishment. Rather than asking, “What does this copy?”, consumers are asking, “What does this give me?”.

Convenience and formats designed for real life

Beyond health, everyday life itself is reshaping how food is consumed. Eating patterns are becoming more fragmented, with more single-person households, solo meals, and flexible schedules. Traditional family dining occasions are less consistent, and snacking is replacing structured meals for many people. This is driving demand for smaller portions, single-serve formats, ready-to-heat solutions, and products designed for specific moments rather than broad categories. Convenience is not just about speed anymore; it is about fitting seamlessly into real life.

Value and trust guide purchase decisions

Economic pressure is another powerful filter. As uncertainty rises, value becomes central to decision-making. Consumers are prioritising affordability, simplicity and reliability. Private labels are gaining ground, and products that clearly communicate “good value for money” are often favoured over more complex or premium options. Importantly, value does not mean cheap. It means fair. Shoppers are willing to pay more, but only when the benefit is obvious and tangible.

Mental well-being is also becoming part of the food conversation. Stress, focus, and energy levels are now everyday concerns, and consumers increasingly look to food and drinks for support. Ingredients such as botanicals, teas, and adaptogens are gaining traction as people search for natural ways to feel calmer, sharper, or more balanced. This marks an interesting expansion of what food is expected to do. It is no longer just about physical health; it is also about emotional and cognitive support.

Tradition and emotional connection drive loyalty

At the same time, tradition is gaining renewed importance. In uncertain times, familiarity reassures. Regional recipes, heritage methods and authentic flavours evoke comfort, identity and connection. Foods linked to childhood memories or cultural roots often feel more meaningful than abstract “innovations.” For many brands, origin stories and craftsmanship are becoming strategic assets, not just marketing details. Authenticity builds trust.

Finally, sustainability remains a critical factor, but with a caveat. Consumers are increasingly sceptical of generic environmental claims. They respond better to actions that feel concrete and visible: support for local farmers, transparent supply chains, responsible sourcing, and practical packaging improvements. Sustainability still influences purchasing decisions, but only when it feels real and provable. Saying less and showing more has become essential.

Designing for behaviour, not just trends

Taken together, these movements reveal a broader truth about the future of food. Health is becoming the default expectation, not a premium feature. Emotional value is what differentiates one product from another. And price sensitivity acts as the final filter through which every decision passes.

In this environment, growth will not come from launching more products. It will come from launching better ones; products that solve real needs, fit real occasions, and deliver clear, credible value.

In other words, the winners in 2026 will not simply follow trends. They will understand behaviour and design accordingly.

This article is informed by insights and data presented during the PortugalFoods TRENDS 26 session (10.02.2026).

O conteúdo Top 10 Food & Beverage trends for 2026: what’s actually changing consumer choices aparece primeiro em BY Foods.

Gulfood 2026, held in Dubai, once again confirmed its role as one of the most influential global platforms for the international food and beverage industry. Bringing together producers, distributors, buyers, and decision-makers from across the world, the event offered a privileged perspective on where the global food market is heading – and how brands must position themselves to remain relevant.

For export-oriented companies like BY Foods, Gulfood is not only a trade fair. Instead, it functions as a strategic observatory of global demand, buyer expectations, and emerging market dynamics.

Why Gulfood 2026 matters in global food trade

Gulfood has long established itself as a reference point for international food trade, particularly at the intersection of Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa.

In 2026, the event reinforced several realities of global food business:

• Buyers are increasingly focused on reliable partners, not just innovative products
• Quality validation and consistency play a central role in purchasing decisions
• Export readiness, logistics capability and compliance are now baseline expectations

As a result, Gulfood continues to be a key meeting point for brands aiming to scale internationally with credibility.

Key trends observed at Gulfood 2026

1. Consistency over novelty

While innovation remains relevant, many buyers prioritised products that demonstrate. Therefore, brands with a clear quality track record and validated credentials stood out more than one-off concepts.

2. Certifications and awards as decision enablers

In international negotiations, independent recognitions increasingly act as risk-reduction tools. For this reason, awards, certifications and third-party validations were frequently referenced in commercial discussions.

3. Export-ready brands with operational maturity

Beyond product quality, buyers showed strong interest in brands capable of:

• Managing large-scale production
• Ensuring cold chain and logistics reliability
• Adapting packaging and formats to different markets

As a result, operational maturity has become as important as brand storytelling.

Gulfood as a strategic platform for export-driven brands

In international food trade, trade shows like Gulfood are more than visibility moments. Instead, they operate as strategic checkpoints, allowing brands to:

• Validate their market positioning
• Test value propositions across regions
• Build long-term commercial relationships

Moreover, Gulfood provides a rare opportunity to engage with multiple markets in a single context, accelerating learning cycles and strategic alignment.

The role of Gulfood in BY Foods’ international strategy

For BY Foods, Gulfood 2026 aligned with a broader export-focused vision grounded in:

• Long-term partnerships rather than transactional sales
• Measurable quality and consistency
• Scalable products adapted to diverse international markets

Therefore, participation in global events like Gulfood supports not only commercial growth but also strategic clarity regarding where the brand creates the most value.

As global food markets become more competitive and more regulated, platforms such as Gulfood will continue to play a critical role in shaping international trade dynamics.

Ultimately, Gulfood 2026 reaffirmed a clear message: in the global food business, success is built on consistency, credibility,Gulfood 2026 and operational excellence – not on short-term trends.

O conteúdo Gulfood 2026: key takeaways from one of the world’s most influential food trade shows aparece primeiro em BY Foods.

BY Foods is proud to announce that Original Nata Pura has once again been awarded 2 stars at the Superior Taste Award, reinforcing its position as an internationally recognised, award-winning Portuguese pastel de nata.

This distinction, granted by the International Taste Institute, highlights outstanding flavour, and something far more difficult to achieve at scale: consistency over time.

For BY Foods, this renewed recognition is a clear validation of its long-term commitment to quality, precision and authenticity in Portuguese pastry.

A consistent Superior Taste Award recognition over the years

Our Portuguese eggtart or pastel de nata – Original Nata Pura – has been evaluated multiple times by independent international juries and has consistently achieved high sensory scores across different editions of the Superior Taste Award.

This continuity reflects a robust production model built on:

• Strict quality control procedures;
• Carefully selected ingredients;
• A stable and replicable recipe;
• Controlled production and freezing processes.

In global food markets, consistency is often more valuable than novelty. It is what builds trust with distributors, retailers and foodservice partners.

What does a 2-star Superior Taste Award mean?

The Superior Taste Award is one of the world’s most respected certifications dedicated exclusively to taste evaluation. Products are blind-tested by professional chefs and sommeliers, with no information regarding brand, origin or price positioning.

A 2-star rating indicates:

• Remarkable taste quality;
• Strong balance between flavour, texture and aroma;
• High overall sensory performance.

For buyers and partners, this award serves as an independent and objective quality benchmark.

Original Nata Pura: an award-winning Portuguese pastel de nata

BY Foods developed Original Nata Pura to deliver an authentic Portuguese custard tart experience, adapted to the demands of international distribution.

Its success lies in balancing tradition with scalability:

• Respect for classic Portuguese pastry heritage;
• Performance across retail and foodservice channels;
• Reliable results in different markets and consumption contexts.

This renewed Superior Taste Award reinforces the product’s positioning as a premium, export-ready Portuguese pastry.

Why international awards matter in food exports

Awards in international food trade are more than marketing assets. They function as decision-support tools for importers, distributors and retailers.

A recognised certification:

• Reduces perceived risk for new markets;
• Supports negotiations with buyers;
• Strengthens credibility in competitive international tenders.

For BY Foods, international recognition aligns directly with its export-driven strategy and long-term brand building.

BY Foods’ commitment to measurable quality

Winning the same award across multiple years reflects a company culture focused on:

• Continuous improvement;
• Process optimisation;
• Long-term partnerships;
• Measurable, repeatable quality standards.

Original Nata Pura’s renewed 2-star distinction confirms that quality at BY Foods is systematic.

As BY Foods continues to expand globally, maintaining recognised quality standards remains a strategic priority. As a result, awards such as the Superior Taste Award serve as both validation and responsibility: a confirmation of excellence, and a commitment to uphold it.

Learn more about the award evaluation here:
https://www.taste-institute.com/en/awarded-products/product-details/7546856918

O conteúdo Original Nata Pura wins 2 stars at the Superior Taste Award in 2025 aparece primeiro em BY Foods.

The International Bakery Awards celebrate products that excel in flavour, creativity, and technical execution. Among a strong group of finalists, Nata Pura stood out for its ability to deliver the true characteristics of a traditional pastel de nata. Even in a frozen format, it preserves those characteristics.

The product keeps its crisp layers, smooth custard, and caramelised top even at scale. As a result, it achieves something few pastries manage without compromise.

Nata Pura enhances the original recipe rather than reinventing it. The brand combines classic baking techniques with modern production methods. This enables both artisan bakeries and large foodservice operators to offer a premium, reliable pastel de nata experience.

This balance between heritage and innovation has been key to its global acceptance.

The award also arrives at a moment when international demand for authentic bakery products is growing rapidly. Consumers are looking for craftsmanship, cultural identity and flavours with a story. Because of that, Nata Pura has become a symbol of this movement. It represents Portuguese culinary heritage with quality that resonates in markets around the world.

For retailers, distributors and potential franchise partners, the distinction sends a strong message. Nata Pura is a brand with clear vision, long-term potential and strong consumer appeal. Consequently, the award strengthens confidence in the brand and supports its continued expansion.

Being named International Bakery Awards Product of the Year 2025 is more than an honour. It validates the strategic vision that defines Nata Pura. More importantly, it marks a new chapter in the journey of a Portuguese icon. Today, it stands as a globally respected bakery favourite.

O conteúdo Nata Pura named International Bakery Awards Product of the Year 2025: a milestone in global expansion and brand consolidation in Portugal aparece primeiro em BY Foods.

During this time of year, companies operating globally face significant logistics challenges holiday season peaks bring, demanding stronger planning, greater coordination, and absolute resilience across the entire supply chain.

The last quarter of the year is the most demanding period for any company handling international operations. For BY Foods, a brand exporting Portuguese pastéis de nata to dozens of countries, this season becomes a true test of our global logistics capacity. As the world accelerates with Black Friday, Christmas and major cultural events across Asia and the Middle East, transport networks reach maximum pressure. Even with these conditions, our commitment remains unchanged: ensuring that every pastel de nata arrives with the same quality, texture and safety that it had when it left our factory in Portugal.

This period becomes particularly complex because several high-impact events occur simultaneously. Black Friday marks the start of the biggest logistics peak worldwide. Demand rises sharply, ports become congested and container availability drops. As a result, international shipping delays become more frequent. For frozen food exporters, these disruptions require exceptional planning and close monitoring of each stage of the journey.

Soon after Black Friday, the Christmas season increases pressure once again. Retailers, distributors and HoReCa operators raise their stock levels in anticipation of higher footfall and year-end celebrations. The global supply chain absorbs even more demand, and transport times may fluctuate without warning. For brands like BY Foods, which depend on strict cold chain logistics, these changes add further operational complexity.

Global logistics challenges during the holiday season do not follow a single timeline. Many of the markets where we operate have cultural calendars that extend beyond Western holidays. In Asia, preparations for the Lunar New Year start weeks before January, triggering an additional spike in demand. In Japan, consumer behaviour shifts again ahead of Golden Week, requiring advance production and export scheduling. The Middle East also experiences fluctuations linked to religious festivities. Managing these overlapping cycles is part of operating a truly global frozen food supply chain.

Internally, this period brings a significant increase in workload. Production volumes rise and stock rotation becomes faster. Coordination between logistics partners, customs agents and clients intensifies daily. Winter conditions in the Northern Hemisphere — storms, snow and extreme cold — can affect air and sea freight routes. At times, these disruptions force last-minute adjustments to keep the cold chain fully intact from Portugal to the final destination.

Despite these pressures, BY Foods continues to deliver reliably. This stability is the result of months of preparation and strong collaboration with specialised logistics partners. Planning for the holiday peak begins well before November. We forecast demand, allocate production capacity, reserve space on vessels and flights and strengthen communication with distributors across all regions. This proactive approach prevents stock shortages and reduces the likelihood of surprises during the busiest season of the year.

Product integrity remains non-negotiable. Every shipment is monitored through strict temperature controls, security seals and detailed handling procedures. This careful oversight ensures that our globally recognised pastéis de nata arrive as they should: crisp outside, creamy inside and full of the flavour that defines an authentic Portuguese specialty.

Above all, the holiday season proves the resilience of our global supply chain. It highlights the strength of our processes, the dedication of our teams and the long-standing trust we have built with our customers around the world. Even when international logistics are under maximum pressure, BY Foods remains committed to delivering a premium product with consistency and excellence.

In a world where delays, congestion and volatility can quickly impact food brands, our approach ensures stability, reliability and a product that never compromises on quality, no matter the season, destination or logistical challenge.

O conteúdo Global logistics challenges during the holiday season: how BY Foods keeps quality intact worldwide aparece primeiro em BY Foods.

A recognition rooted in history and cultural identity

Macao is one of the places where Portuguese heritage grew, transformed and blended into a multicultural environment. The inclusion of the pastel de nata in its Cultural Heritage list confirms its importance in daily life. It recognises its historical relevance and its influence on both residents and visitors.

This distinction reinforces several key points.
Firstly, it supports the preservation of traditional techniques and craftsmanship.
Secondly, it highlights the value of Portuguese culinary heritage abroad.
Furthermore, it protects expressions of shared history.
Lastly, it reflects the increasing global interest in authentic Portuguese pastry.

By receiving this distinction, the pastel de nata is now officially positioned not only as a gastronomic favourite but also as a cultural ambassador.

A Portuguese pastry with global reach

Today, the pastel de nata is enjoyed in over 50 countries worldwide. It has crossed borders through coffee shops, restaurants, retail chains, hotels, and even international airports.
Its globalisation has been shaped by both its universal appeal and the work of brands committed to preserving authenticity.

Companies like Nata Pura have played a significant role in this journey, ensuring that the product, whether in Asia, North America, Europe, or Oceania, maintains the same quality, texture, and flavour that define the original Portuguese recipe. This balance between tradition and innovation is one of the reasons the pastel de nata remains a popular choice internationally.

Macao as a cultural bridge

In Macao, the pastel de nata has developed a unique identity. Known by many tourists as the “Portuguese tart,” it is one of the region’s most recognisable gastronomic icons, often ranked among the top foods to try when visiting.

The recognition as Intangible Cultural Heritage highlights:

• the role of Portuguese culinary traditions in shaping local food culture,
• the influence of Macao’s multicultural history,
• and the continued relevance of the pastel de nata in the region’s identity.

It also elevates the pastry beyond the commercial sphere, placing it within a narrative of shared history and cultural preservation.

Impact on the global positioning of Portuguese gastronomy

This distinction strengthens the international reputation of Portuguese pastry and contributes to the global visibility of traditional foods.
For producers and exporters, it opens new opportunities by emphasising authenticity, protecting traditional methods, and increasing consumer interest in genuine Portuguese products.

For brands like Nata Pura, it reinforces the importance of promoting quality, traceability, and cultural value. This commitment was also reflected in the brand’s presence at Expo 2025 Osaka, where the pastel de nata was presented as a symbol of Portuguese heritage.

The recognition of the pastel de nata as part of Macao’s Intangible Cultural Heritage is a milestone that celebrates much more than a recipe. It honours a shared cultural legacy, reinforces the importance of preserving tradition, and highlights the global impact of Portuguese gastronomy. As the pastel de nata continues to travel the world, this distinction ensures that its story and its heritage, will remain protected and celebrated for generations to come.

O conteúdo Pastel de nata recognised as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Macao aparece primeiro em BY Foods.