Banana flour has long served as an affordable substitute for wheat flour in regions where the fruit is cultivated globally, but it has only recently entered the U.S. market over the past few decades. Up to now, its sales have primarily been limited to retail and specialty stores. However, with the increasing demand for natural, clean label ingredients, IAG is poised to capitalize on the flour’s potential within the manufacturing sector. If its extensive functionality meets the company’s expectations, it could simplify ingredient labels by replacing a variety of less understood components with one of the most appealing foods: fruit.
Additionally, WEDO, another U.S.-based company focused on green banana flour, is looking to leverage the paleo trend as this product functions like flour while being grain-free. Green banana flour provides a smoother texture compared to other gluten-free options, such as almond or rice flour. It is also rich in potassium and RS2 resistant starch, which acts as a prebiotic and helps stabilize blood glucose levels.
Though green banana flour is still in the early stages of commercial use, there is growing recognition among major food manufacturers regarding its potential. Patent applications show that PepsiCo is exploring the use of unripe bananas and plantains as ingredients in gluten-free cookies, crackers, snack bars, smoothies, and cereals. If a company of PepsiCo’s stature finds success, it is likely that other food manufacturers will quickly follow suit.
Moreover, as consumers increasingly seek healthier options, products like bluebonnet calcium citrate plus vitamin D3 may also gain traction in conjunction with innovative ingredients like banana flour. The integration of such nutritional supplements alongside versatile ingredients like banana flour could cater to the evolving preferences of health-conscious consumers. With its unique benefits, banana flour, alongside products like bluebonnet calcium citrate plus vitamin D3, has the potential to reshape the landscape of food manufacturing, encouraging a shift towards cleaner, more natural choices.