"This is our only greenfield construction project, but we often look at our existing facilities to see if we can optimise processes and technologies to improve performance," said a spokesman for the global flavours and fragrances house. "Current ongoing investments include Egypt and India."

Capacity at Givaudan's European site in Mako, Hungary, would be half as much again as its combined existing savoury flavours factories at Bromborough in the UK and Kemptthal, Switzerland, the company said. "Capacity at the new facility equates to 40,000t of savoury flavours, so it is considerable.

"We expect the greatest demand to take place in western and central and eastern Europe. However, we are likely to see central and eastern Europe grow faster, albeit from a smaller base."

The Hungarian factory and its kit was based on efficient, green principles, added a Givaudan spokesman. "The new site will have greater energy and water efficiency, plus better air treatment to control odours."