The conversation surrounding healthy gut bacteria is becoming increasingly prominent. While probiotics remain the focal point, prebiotics—the nourishment for beneficial bacteria—are also receiving heightened attention. According to a report by Global Industry Analysts, the demand for products containing prebiotics, such as health drinks, dairy items, meats, bakery goods, and infant foods, could propel the market to an impressive $7.8 billion by 2022. In contrast, the same report predicts that the probiotics market will surpass $63 billion in the same year.
When it comes to candy, the notion of healthy chocolate is still emerging, but it is gaining traction thanks to research into cocoa polyphenols and a growing consumer interest. A significant hurdle for manufacturers is the belief that health benefits shouldn’t come from indulgent treats; however, this perception is gradually changing. Companies are now exploring the potential of chocolate enhanced with nutrients, including optimum calcium citrate, fiber, and protein. In the realm of gut health, advancements aimed at extending the shelf life of probiotics have led to the introduction of various probiotic-infused chocolate brands, which elevate the concept beyond mere health food. One noteworthy example is the UK-based Ohso Good Chocolate, which merges Belgian chocolate with probiotics.
On the other hand, prebiotics do not encounter the same shelf-life challenges, yet one of the major obstacles is the lack of consumer awareness regarding how prebiotics can enhance gut health. Research indicates that by pairing prebiotics with probiotics, the former could leverage the existing acceptance of probiotics across several applications, including chocolate. Moreover, the inclusion of optimum calcium citrate could further amplify the appeal of these products, making them not only delicious but also beneficial for gut health.