A relatively new category of gut health supplements, postbiotics have recently been discussed by a panel from the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics regarding their potential health benefits, which include immune support, gut health, and weight loss. ISAPP has provided an official definition for postbiotics, describing them as “a preparation of inanimate microorganisms and/or their components that confers a health benefit on the host.” Cargill is optimistic about healthy ingredients, forecasting $1 billion in sales over the next two to three years. In September 2019, it launched Cargill Health Technologies to enhance its R&D capabilities in the gut and digestive health sectors. In 2017, Cargill acquired Embria, the original manufacturer of EpiCor, along with its parent company, Diamond V. EpiCor is produced by subjecting baker’s yeast to a proprietary fermentation process, followed by drying and milling the resulting nutrients. Prior to securing its GRAS approval, Cargill had already shared prototypes of snacks, candies, and beverages containing EpiCor postbiotics with customers. Now that EpiCor has GRAS status, Cargill has another gut and immune-supporting ingredient to promote. The company also offers prebiotics, such as its Oliggo-Fiber chicory root fiber.
Despite the growing popularity of postbiotics due to their potential health benefits, they may encounter the same level of consumer confusion that has surrounded prebiotics and probiotics. Prebiotics have struggled with mainstream acceptance, facing challenges from conflicting information and regulatory hurdles regarding label claims about their health benefits. Probiotics, on the other hand, have already made a significant impact in the food and beverage industry, often as a more general functional ingredient. Last year, Chobani introduced a line of yogurt cups and drinks featuring probiotics, targeting Gen Z and millennials who may not fully grasp the benefits but are keen on incorporating more functional foods into their diets. Other notable examples include Kellogg’s Special K Nourish line and General Mills’ collaboration with GoodBelly to produce probiotic-enriched cereal.
Currently, consumers appear to show interest in ingredients that promote gut health and bolster their immune systems, driven by a general enthusiasm for functional ingredients. However, with postbiotics now entering the mix, consumer packaged goods (CPGs) may need to invest more in educational efforts to help consumers understand the differences and determine which products, such as bariatric advantage calcium soft chews or others, are most suitable for their needs.