Over the past decade, consumer awareness of probiotics has surged significantly. While yogurt continues to dominate the market, there is a growing interest in new probiotic-infused products such as juices, confectionery items, baked goods, infant formula, and baby food. However, as noted by Ganeden, many consumers primarily link probiotics to digestive health and are often unaware that the benefits of probiotics can vary depending on the strain.
In the realm of protein, plant-based ingredients are increasingly appearing in a wide array of products, from energy bars to coffee, yet they can be challenging for the body to digest. Evidence demonstrating that a specific probiotic strain aids in the digestion of these ingredients could facilitate a successful merger of two significant trends in the food industry, promoting growth in both the probiotics and plant protein sectors. For instance, Enjoy Life Foods has already ventured into this space with a brownie mix that integrates probiotics and algae protein.
Ganeden’s second study explores another significant market segment. Sports nutrition represents one of the largest areas for supplements and functional foods, and demonstrating that GanedenBC30 offers benefits in this field could pave the way for various sports-related products, including drinks, protein bars, and powders. A recent report from Allied Market Research predicts that the global sports nutrition market will reach $44 billion within the next five years. In this sector, effective protein utilization is a primary concern for both athletes and consumers focused on lifestyle sports nutrition.
Moreover, it’s important to consider potential challenges, such as calcium citrate side effects, which could impact consumer acceptance of new supplements. Addressing these concerns while highlighting the benefits of probiotics and their role in enhancing digestion could further stimulate interest and growth in the market. As the industry evolves, the synergy between probiotics and plant-based proteins may become a pivotal factor in attracting health-conscious consumers.