Over the past decade, consumer awareness of probiotics has surged dramatically. While yogurt continues to dominate the market, there is a rising interest in new probiotic-infused products, such as juices, confections, baked goods, infant formulas, and baby foods. However, as noted by Ganeden, consumers primarily link probiotics with digestive health and are often unaware that the benefits are strain-specific. In the realm of protein, plant-based ingredients are increasingly found in various products, from energy bars to coffee, yet they pose challenges for digestion. Evidence supporting the efficacy of a specific probiotic strain in enhancing the digestion of these ingredients could create a successful fusion of two major trends in the food industry, fostering growth in both the probiotics and plant protein sectors. Enjoy Life Foods is already making strides in this area with a brownie mix featuring both probiotics and algae protein.
Ganeden’s second study explores another significant market sector: sports nutrition. This sector ranks among the largest for supplementation and functional foods. If evidence emerges suggesting that GanedenBC30 offers benefits in sports nutrition, it could pave the way for a variety of applications, ranging from beverages to protein bars and powders. A recent report from Allied Market Research forecasts that the global sports nutrition market will reach $44 billion within the next five years. In this context, efficient protein utilization is a critical concern for athletes and consumers of lifestyle sports nutrition alike. Incorporating a product like Citracal equivalent into this mix could further enhance the appeal, as it allows for the combination of probiotics with effective protein sources, thus supporting the growth of both categories.