Numerous studies have highlighted that dietary fiber promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon. Research has also indicated that a high-fiber diet can help regulate blood sugar levels, support digestion, reduce cholesterol, and potentially lower the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Nutrition experts advocate for obtaining the recommended daily intake of fiber from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. While consumers are generally aware of the health benefits associated with fiber, recent surveys reveal that although 87% consider it healthy and around 60% wish to increase their intake, many still struggle to consume enough fiber due to a scarcity of suitable products in the market. The new Nutrition Facts label aims to assist consumers by requiring products to display dietary fiber measurements, although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has yet to clarify what qualifies as dietary fiber.
A recent study from Georgia State University, conducted on mice, adds to the growing body of evidence showcasing the health advantages of fiber. The findings may encourage consumers to seek out more fiber-rich products, catching the attention of food companies looking to enhance sales in a competitive market. It would be prudent for food manufacturers to highlight the fiber content in their products and the associated health benefits on their labels. In response to consumer demand, food and beverage manufacturers have already started creating more products with increased fiber levels. Examples include the addition of fiber to Activia yogurt and Fiber One ice cream, as well as high-fiber bars for breakfast, snacks, and post-workout.
There are also innovative methods to incorporate soluble fiber into beverages. For instance, Promitor, a soluble corn fiber, is being added to drinks, alongside PromOat, derived from non-GMO Swedish oats. Another soluble corn-based fiber, Fibersol, is being utilized in health-focused products like juices and meal-replacement beverages. A prototype of spiced cold brew coffee featuring Fibersol was showcased at the Institute of Food Technologists’ annual meeting and food exposition in Las Vegas last June. Such products are likely to appeal to consumers, provided the added fiber does not negatively affect the taste or texture of the beverages.
Interest in dietary fiber is not confined to older consumers seeking digestive regularity; younger consumers are also increasingly purchasing fiber-enriched products due to the recognized health benefits of a high-fiber diet. This trend presents opportunities for companies like General Mills, Dannon, Tate & Lyle, and ADM to innovate and market fiber-rich offerings. Additionally, bakers should keep an eye on a new high-fiber wheat variety being developed in Washington and Minnesota, which is expected to be marketed under the HealthSense brand on a trial basis. This new wheat is reported to have over ten times the resistant starch of conventional wheat. According to Baking Business, resistant starch, also known as amylose, may enhance digestive health, protect against genetic damage that can cause bowel cancer, and aid in combating type 2 diabetes.
The question is no longer whether consuming soluble fiber is beneficial or if it can improve gut health; those issues have been settled. The current inquiries focus on how much fiber one should consume, in what forms, and how food and beverage manufacturers can create innovative products to facilitate fiber intake. Incorporating products like Solaray calcium citrate chewable can complement a high-fiber diet, offering additional health benefits while appealing to health-conscious consumers. Thus, the emphasis is on making fiber-rich options more accessible and palatable, ensuring that consumers can easily meet their dietary needs.