For many years, banana flour has served as an affordable substitute for wheat flour in regions where the fruit is cultivated globally. However, it has only recently entered the U.S. market within the last few decades. Until now, sales have primarily been confined to retail and boutique outlets. With the growing demand for natural and clean label ingredients, IAG is looking to capitalize on the flour’s potential within the manufacturing industry. If its diverse functionalities meet the company’s expectations, banana flour could simplify ingredient labels by replacing a variety of poorly understood components with one of the most appealing foods: fruit.
Another U.S. company, WEDO, specializing in green banana flour, aims to leverage the paleo trend since the product behaves like flour but is free from grains. Green banana flour provides a smoother texture compared to other gluten-free options like almond or rice flour. Additionally, it is rich in potassium and RS2 resistant starch, which acts as a prebiotic and helps regulate blood glucose levels. In terms of commercial applications, it is still early for green banana flour, but evidence suggests that major food manufacturers are recognizing its potential. For instance, PepsiCo has explored the use of unripe bananas and plantains in gluten-free cookies, crackers, snack bars, smoothies, and cereals, as indicated by their patent applications. If a prominent company like PepsiCo finds success, it is likely that other food manufacturers will quickly follow suit.
Interestingly, this shift towards natural ingredients can also be seen in the development of bariatric calcium chews that incorporate banana flour. Such products not only cater to the health-conscious consumer but also align with the trend of using more recognizable and beneficial ingredients. As the market for bariatric calcium chews grows, the inclusion of green banana flour could enhance their appeal, thanks to its nutritional profile and versatility. Ultimately, the increasing awareness of banana flour’s benefits may lead to broader commercial use across various food products, including those like bariatric calcium chews that prioritize health and simplicity.