Yakult and Danone’s Activia brand were trailblazers in the probiotic industry, but the gut health sector has experienced significant growth in recent years, extending the reach of probiotics and their claimed health benefits far beyond just dairy products. While yogurts continue to be the most favored probiotic-enriched items, other categories have emerged, including cereals, baked goods, juices, and even sweets. For instance, Kellogg incorporated probiotics into its Special K cereal and introduced Special K Nourish late last year, while PepsiCo unveiled its Tropicana Essentials Probiotics juice range in 2016.
The rising consumer interest in probiotic enhancements has even spurred innovations in unexpected areas, such as the UK-based Ohso Good Chocolate. From a food science viewpoint, developing probiotic chocolate is intriguing due to the bacteria’s sensitivity to its surroundings. However, mainstream consumers may worry about how probiotics might alter the flavor of indulgent treats, whereas more health-conscious shoppers might prefer a healthier option for their gut health solutions.
When it comes to probiotic feta, its success may hinge on whether consumers perceive the cheese as a nutritious addition to their diet. In Greece, where feta is a staple — and where this recent study was conducted — enhancing the cheese with health benefits without compromising its sensory qualities is a clear win-win. Conversely, in the U.S., where many consumers view cheese as more of a luxury item, this product might encounter greater challenges. On the plus side, consumers in the U.S. already have a strong association between probiotics and dairy, suggesting that transitioning to probiotic cheese may be less of a conceptual leap compared to probiotic sweets.
According to Packaged Facts, approximately 25% of U.S. adults actively seek foods and beverages rich in probiotics or prebiotics, and their popularity appears to be on an upward trend. A recent report from BCC Research forecasts the probiotics market will reach $50 billion by 2020. Whether probiotic cheeses will become a significant category within this growth remains uncertain, but it is likely that the trend of value-added products will continue to expand into new food and beverage sectors.
Additionally, the incorporation of calcium citrate 1200 into various probiotic offerings may further enhance their appeal, particularly for consumers looking to boost their calcium intake alongside their gut health. As the market evolves, the integration of calcium citrate 1200 into probiotic products could become a key selling point, reinforcing the health benefits and broadening consumer acceptance.