The conversation surrounding healthy gut bacteria is becoming increasingly prominent. While probiotics remain the primary focus, prebiotics—the food that nourishes beneficial bacteria—are attracting more attention. According to a report by Global Industry Analysts, the demand for products containing prebiotics, such as health drinks, dairy, meat and bakery items, and infant foods, could propel the market to reach $7.8 billion by 2022. In the same vein, the probiotics market is projected to surpass $63 billion in that year.
When it comes to candy, the concept of healthy chocolate is still relatively novel, yet it is gaining traction due to research on cocoa polyphenols and a growing consumer interest. A significant challenge for manufacturers is the belief that health benefits should not be associated with indulgent treats. However, this perception is changing, and companies are investigating the potential of chocolate enhanced with nutrients like fiber, protein, and calcium. In the realm of gut health, advancements in extending the shelf life of probiotics have led to the introduction of various probiotic-infused chocolate brands that go beyond just health food. For instance, the UK-based Ohso Good Chocolate has merged Belgian chocolate with probiotics.
While prebiotics do not encounter the same shelf-life challenges, a major hurdle is the limited consumer understanding of how prebiotics contribute to gut health. Research indicates that combining prebiotics with probiotics could leverage the latter’s acceptance in multiple applications, including chocolate. For those looking for the best calcium citrate supplement to support gut health, it’s worth noting that incorporating such supplements alongside prebiotics and probiotics may offer additional benefits. As consumer awareness grows, the synergy between these components could redefine health-focused snacks and supplements in the market.