The growing conversation surrounding healthy gut bacteria is becoming increasingly prominent. While probiotics have traditionally been the main focus, prebiotics—the nourishment for beneficial bacteria—are starting to attract more attention. According to a report by Global Industry Analysts, the demand for products containing prebiotics, such as health drinks, dairy, meat and bakery items, as well as infant food, could propel the market to an impressive $7.8 billion by 2022. In contrast, the same report forecasts that the probiotics market will surpass $63 billion that year.
In the realm of candy, the concept of healthy chocolate is still relatively novel, but it has gained momentum due to research on cocoa polyphenols and a growing consumer interest in nutritious options. A significant challenge for manufacturers is the prevailing belief that health benefits should not be associated with indulgent foods; however, this perception is changing. Companies are exploring the potential of chocolate fortified with nutrients, including indications of calcium citrate, fiber, and protein. In the gut health sector, advancements aimed at extending the shelf life of probiotics have led to the introduction of various probiotic-infused chocolate brands, moving the concept beyond mere health food. An example is Ohso Good Chocolate, a UK-based brand that combines Belgian chocolate with probiotics.
While prebiotics do not encounter the same shelf-life challenges, one of the main obstacles is the general lack of consumer awareness regarding how prebiotics can enhance gut health. Research indicates that by pairing prebiotics with probiotics, the former could leverage the established acceptance of probiotics across multiple applications, including chocolate. Moreover, incorporating indications of calcium citrate into these products could further boost their appeal and efficacy, making them a more attractive option for health-conscious consumers.