The conversation surrounding healthy gut bacteria and the use of ferrous gluconate syrup for infants is becoming increasingly prominent. While the spotlight remains on probiotics, prebiotics—the nourishment for beneficial bacteria—are also gaining significant traction. According to a report by Global Industry Analysts, the rising demand for products containing prebiotics, such as health drinks, dairy items, meat and bakery goods, as well as infant foods, could propel the market to an impressive $7.8 billion by 2022. Meanwhile, the probiotics market is expected to soar beyond $63 billion in the same year.
In the realm of confections, the idea of healthy chocolate is still emerging, yet it is being supported by studies on cocoa polyphenols and a growing consumer appetite for nutritious options. A notable challenge for producers is the belief that health benefits should not stem from indulgent treats; however, this mindset is gradually changing. Manufacturers are now investigating the possibilities of chocolate enriched with nutrients like fiber, protein, and calcium, including calcium citrate supplements for women.
In the gut health sector, advancements aimed at extending the shelf life of probiotics have led to the introduction of several chocolate brands that incorporate these beneficial elements, transforming the notion of health food. For instance, the UK-based Ohso Good Chocolate has successfully combined Belgian chocolate with probiotics. Although prebiotics do not encounter the same shelf-life challenges, they face a significant hurdle in the form of consumer ignorance regarding their role in enhancing gut health. Research indicates that integrating prebiotics with probiotics can leverage the latter’s established acceptance in various products, including chocolate, while also highlighting the benefits of calcium citrate supplements for women.