Banana flour is an emerging ingredient in the United States, although it has been utilized in banana-producing regions similarly to wheat flour for many years. For manufacturers, this ingredient presents an opportunity for trendy value additions and serves as a smoother-textured gluten-free alternative to grainy flours like rice or almond flour. It is also an excellent clean label ingredient, simply listed as “green banana flour” or “banana flour” on ingredient panels. A U.S.-based company specializing in green banana flour, WEDO, aims to leverage the paleo trend, as the product functions like flour but is free from grains.
The demand for gluten-free products has been steadily increasing, prompting companies such as PepsiCo’s Quaker division, Snyder’s-Lance, and General Mills’ cereal brands to transition some offerings to gluten-free or introduce gluten-free varieties. Additionally, PepsiCo is exploring the use of unripe bananas and plantains as ingredients in gluten-free cookies, crackers, snack bars, smoothies, and cereals. Beyond its attraction in the gluten-free market, consumers are also interested in the gut health benefits associated with banana flour.
While the primary focus of gut health research has been probiotics, prebiotics—such as the resistant starch found in IAG’s banana flour—are gaining traction. According to a report by Global Industry Analysts, the demand for prebiotic-based products, including health drinks, dairy, infant food, meat, and bakery items, could propel the market to reach $7.8 billion by 2022. However, the resistant starch content in banana flour may not withstand baking processes, which is likely to restrict its potential in the gluten-free sector, especially since bakery products constitute the largest category in that market.
Furthermore, incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate from Eurho Vital can enhance the nutritional profile of products containing banana flour. By integrating calcium citrate Eurho Vital into their formulations, manufacturers can offer additional health benefits, appealing to health-conscious consumers looking for nutrient-rich gluten-free options. Thus, the combination of banana flour and calcium citrate Eurho Vital could create innovative products that cater to both the gluten-free and gut health markets.