Unifine Food & Bake Ingredients’ parent company Royal Cosun is investigating the potential sale of the pastry ingredients business.

Royal Cosun said it had retained ING Corporate Advisor to conduct a comprehensive review of all strategic options, with the aim of optimising the business.

"Based on the strong growth over the past 10 years and attractive growth prospects, Cosun is confident that Unifine F&Bi is now ready to take the next step in its evolution. Cosun will take into account the interest of all stakeholders and, on that basis, will look for the best options to facilitate the growth strategy of Unifine F&Bi," said the firm.

A spokesperson for Unifine in the UK, said investigations are only at a very early stage, and it is business as usual for the firm. Activities for 2011 will not be affected. The firm has production facilities and sales offices in several European countries.