The Latest Buzz in the Food Ingredients & Supplements Industry
The food ingredients and supplements industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and innovations emerging all the time. Keeping up with the latest developments is crucial for manufacturers, retailers, and consumers alike, so let’s take a look at some of the most exciting buzzwords and trends in this space right now.
Plant-based Everything
The plant-based craze shows no sign of slowing down, with consumers increasingly seeking out vegan and vegetarian alternatives to traditional meat and dairy products. From plant-based burgers and sausages to non-dairy milk and cheese, there has never been a wider variety of plant-based options available. This trend is driven by concerns about sustainability and animal welfare, as well as the growing body of evidence suggesting that a plant-based diet can have numerous health benefits.
Functional Ingredients
Gone are the days when food and supplements were simply about satisfying hunger or providing a quick energy boost. Today’s consumers are looking for much more from their food, with many seeking out functional ingredients that claim to offer specific health benefits. Examples include turmeric, which is said to have anti-inflammatory properties, and collagen, which is thought to improve skin health.
Probiotics and Digestive Health
Gut health has been a hot topic in recent years, with a growing understanding of the important role the microbiome plays in overall health and wellbeing. Probiotics are one of the most high-profile examples of ingredients that claim to support digestive health, and their popularity shows no sign of waning. Increasingly, consumers are also seeking out so-called ‘prebiotic’ foods that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Sustainability and Traceability
With increasing concerns about the environmental impact of food production, sustainability and traceability are becoming key buzzwords in the food ingredients and supplements industry. From using locally-sourced, organic ingredients to implementing more environmentally-friendly production processes, manufacturers are under pressure to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. Traceability is also increasingly important, particularly when it comes to meat and dairy products, where consumers want to know exactly where their food comes from and how it was produced.
The Bottom Line
The food ingredients and supplements industry is constantly evolving, but the latest buzzwords and trends show a clear direction of travel. Consumers are increasingly interested in products that are sustainable, plant-based, and offer specific health benefits, particularly when it comes to digestive health. Manufacturers and retailers need to stay ahead of the game to cater to these growing demands, while consumers can look forward to a wider range of innovative, functional foods and supplements than ever before.