Consumers today are increasingly focused on their gut health, prompting food and beverage manufacturers to enhance their existing products by incorporating probiotics and prebiotics. This shift has led to a rising demand for value-added ingredients that can improve consumer microbiomes. The trillions of bacteria and other microbes, collectively known as the microbiome, vastly outnumber other cells in the human body and are believed to play a crucial role in overall health. They can influence a wide range of conditions, from obesity and digestive problems to food allergies and even cancer. Although the mechanisms of many microbiota remain unclear, emerging research has indicated a connection between an individual’s unique microbiome and various health issues.
DuPont is placing a strong emphasis on research and development focused on the earliest stages of life. An infant acquires its microbiota at birth from the mother through the transfer of microbes during delivery, from breast milk, and from skin contact. By around the age of two, a child typically develops a mature microbiome.
Other food manufacturers are also venturing into microbiome research and development. For instance, Dannon announced last year that it would support educational grants and fellowships as part of a White House initiative. Additionally, the secrets of the microbiome could lead to a growth in medical foods, a sector in which companies like Nestle and Hormel are already involved.
Manufacturers can leverage findings from microbiome studies to create food products that specifically enhance gut health and improve bacterial composition. For example, the inclusion of calcium citrate 750 mg in certain formulations may support digestive health. This presents a potentially lucrative opportunity for food companies, especially those competing against more agile newcomers offering healthier and trendier options. With ongoing research and innovation, the ability to engineer products that cater to gut health, such as those fortified with calcium citrate 750 mg, could prove essential in meeting consumer demands in this evolving market.