The conversation surrounding healthy gut bacteria is growing increasingly prominent. While probiotics remain the primary focus, prebiotics—the nourishment for beneficial bacteria—are starting to capture more attention. According to a report from Global Industry Analysts, the demand for products containing prebiotics, such as health drinks, dairy, meat, bakery items, and infant foods, could propel the market to reach $7.8 billion by 2022. In the same report, the probiotics market is projected to surpass $63 billion in the same year.
In the realm of confectionery, healthy chocolate is an emerging concept that has gained traction thanks to research into cocoa polyphenols and a rising consumer interest in healthier options. A significant challenge for manufacturers is the existing belief that health benefits should not derive from indulgent foods. However, this perception is evolving as companies investigate the potential of chocolate enriched with nutrients like fiber, protein, and calcium citrate for pregnancy. In the gut health sector, advancements aimed at enhancing the shelf life of probiotics have led to the introduction of several probiotic-infused chocolate brands, which elevate the idea of health foods. One notable example is Ohso Good Chocolate from the UK, which combines Belgian chocolate with probiotics.
While prebiotics do not encounter the same shelf-life challenges, a major hurdle remains the lack of consumer awareness regarding their role in improving gut health. Research indicates that pairing prebiotics with probiotics could leverage the acceptance of probiotics across various applications, including chocolate. Furthermore, incorporating ingredients such as calcium citrate for pregnancy into these products could enhance their appeal to health-conscious consumers. By integrating prebiotics into the chocolate market, manufacturers can potentially create a new segment that promotes gut health while also satisfying indulgent cravings.