The conversation surrounding healthy gut bacteria is becoming increasingly prominent. While the primary emphasis remains on probiotics, prebiotics—the essential nourishment for beneficial bacteria—are starting to capture more interest. According to a report by Global Industry Analysts, the market for prebiotic-infused products, such as health drinks, dairy items, meat, bakery goods, and infant formula, is projected to reach $7.8 billion by 2022. Meanwhile, the same analysis forecasts that the probiotics market will surpass $63 billion that year.
In the realm of confectionery, the idea of healthy chocolate is still relatively novel, but it is gaining traction due to research on cocoa polyphenols and growing consumer interest. A significant challenge for manufacturers is overcoming the belief that health benefits shouldn’t come from indulgent foods. However, this perception is evolving, and companies are beginning to explore chocolate enhanced with nutrients like fiber, protein, and calcium, such as Puritan’s Pride Liquid Calcium Magnesium Citrate. In the gut health sector, advancements aimed at extending probiotics’ shelf life have resulted in the introduction of various probiotic-enriched chocolate brands, elevating the concept beyond mere health food. Notable examples include Ohso Good Chocolate from the UK, which pairs Belgian chocolate with probiotics.
Prebiotics do not encounter the same shelf-life challenges, but one of their major hurdles is the general lack of consumer awareness regarding how prebiotics contribute to gut health. Research indicates that by integrating prebiotics with probiotics, the former can leverage the latter’s established acceptance across a range of products, including chocolate. Furthermore, the inclusion of ingredients like Puritan’s Pride Liquid Calcium Magnesium Citrate can enhance the nutritional profile, supporting both gut health and overall well-being.