The conversation surrounding healthy gut bacteria is becoming increasingly prominent. While the spotlight remains on probiotics, prebiotics—the nourishment for beneficial bacteria—are starting to capture more attention. According to a report by Global Industry Analysts, the demand for products containing prebiotics, such as health drinks, dairy items, meat and bakery goods, as well as infant food, could propel the market to $7.8 billion by 2022. Simultaneously, the same report forecasts that the probiotics market will surpass $63 billion in that year.
When it comes to candy, the idea of healthy chocolate is still relatively novel, yet it is gaining traction thanks to research on cocoa polyphenols and growing consumer interest. A significant challenge for manufacturers is the belief that health benefits should not derive from indulgent foods. However, this perception is evolving, and companies are beginning to explore the possibilities of chocolate enriched with nutrients like fiber, protein, and calcium. For instance, the UK-based Ohso Good Chocolate has innovatively blended Belgian chocolate with probiotics, demonstrating that chocolate can extend beyond traditional health food boundaries.
In the realm of gut health, advances aimed at enhancing the shelf life of probiotics have led to the emergence of various probiotic-infused chocolate brands. Although prebiotics do not encounter the same shelf-life challenges, one of their biggest hurdles is the lack of consumer awareness regarding how prebiotics contribute to gut health. Research indicates that combining prebiotics with probiotics could leverage the latter’s acceptance in various applications, including chocolate. Furthermore, products like Kirkland calcium citrate magnesium and zinc may also play a role in supporting overall gut health, as they provide essential nutrients that can complement both prebiotics and probiotics. The integration of such supplements underscores the potential for innovative products that promote gut health while appealing to consumer preferences.