Numerous studies have highlighted the role of dietary fiber in promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Research indicates that a high-fiber diet can stabilize blood sugar levels, facilitate digestion, lower cholesterol, and potentially decrease the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Nutritionists advocate for obtaining the recommended daily intake of fiber through whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. While consumers generally recognize the health benefits of fiber, recent surveys reveal that while 87% view it as healthy and about 60% wish to increase their intake, many still struggle to consume adequate amounts due to a lack of available products. The new Nutrition Facts label aims to address this by requiring dietary fiber measurements on product packaging, 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 supporting the health advantages of fiber. These findings may stimulate consumer interest in fiber-rich products, which is likely to attract the attention of food companies looking to enhance sales in a competitive market. Consequently, food manufacturers should consider highlighting the fiber content and associated health benefits of their products on labels.
In response to consumer demand, food and beverage manufacturers have been increasingly incorporating higher fiber levels into their offerings. For instance, Activia yogurt and Fiber One ice cream now contain added fiber, alongside high-fiber bars designed for breakfast, snacks, and post-workout recovery. New methods for integrating soluble fiber into beverages are also emerging. Soluble corn fiber, such as Promitor, is being added to drinks, along with PromOat, made from non-bioengineered Swedish oats. Fibersol is another corn-based soluble fiber that is included in health-oriented products like juices and meal-replacement shakes. A prototype of spiced cold brew coffee featuring Fibersol was showcased at the Institute of Food Technologists’ annual meeting and food expo in Las Vegas last June. These products could appeal to consumers, provided the added fiber does not negatively affect the taste or texture of the beverages.
Interest in dietary fiber is not limited to older consumers seeking digestive regularity; younger consumers are also gravitating toward fiber-rich products due to the health benefits linked to a high-fiber diet. This trend could benefit companies like General Mills, Dannon, Tate & Lyle, and ADM in their efforts to develop and market fiber-rich items. Additionally, baked goods manufacturers may want to pay attention to a new high-fiber wheat variety being cultivated in Washington and Minnesota. This new strain, which will be tested under the HealthSense brand, reportedly contains over ten times the resistant starch of conventional wheat. Resistant starch, known as amylose, may enhance digestive health, protect against genetic damage that can lead to bowel cancer, and aid in the management of type 2 diabetes.
The conversation surrounding the consumption of soluble fiber is no longer about its advisability or its benefits for gut health—those questions have been answered. Instead, the focus has shifted to how much fiber to consume, in what forms, and how food and beverage companies can innovate to facilitate increased fiber intake. Furthermore, as consumers seek out plant-based options, the inclusion of vegan calcium citrate in these fiber-rich products could provide an additional health benefit, enriching their appeal and potentially driving further interest among health-conscious shoppers.