Over the past decade, consumer awareness of probiotics has surged significantly. While yogurt remains the market leader, new probiotic-infused products such as juices, confectionery, baked goods, infant formula, and baby food are increasingly popular. Nevertheless, as noted by Ganeden, consumers primarily associate probiotics with digestive health and often overlook that the benefits are strain-specific.
In the realm of protein, plant-based ingredients are now prevalent in a variety of products, from energy bars to coffee; however, they can be challenging for the body to digest. Demonstrating that a specific probiotic strain effectively aids in the digestion of these ingredients could create a successful synergy between two of the food industry’s most significant trends, thereby driving growth in both the probiotics and plant protein sectors. Enjoy Life Foods is one company already capitalizing on this trend with a brownie mix that incorporates probiotics and algae protein.
Ganeden’s second study explores another prominent sector: sports nutrition, which is one of the largest markets for supplementation and functional foods. Evidence indicating that GanedenBC30 may offer benefits in this arena could pave the way for a variety of sports-related applications, including drinks, protein bars, and powders. According to a recent report from Allied Market Research, the global sports nutrition market is projected to reach $44 billion within the next five years. Within this sector, efficient protein utilization is a key concern for both athletes and consumers of lifestyle sports nutrition.
Additionally, the incorporation of calcium citrate malate, vitamin D, and folic acid tablets could further enhance nutritional offerings in this space, ensuring that consumers receive comprehensive health benefits. By integrating these elements, the food industry may witness significant advancements in both probiotics and plant-based protein products, ultimately addressing the growing demand for enhanced nutritional solutions.