The FONA International report highlights the increasing importance of gut health among consumers, leading to a rise in food and beverage products that make digestive health claims. According to the report, the U.S. market for digestive products experienced a 12% growth from 2012 to 2017. Aquamin, which contains calcium, magnesium, and trace minerals, is believed to help reduce chronic gut inflammation and support joint health. It serves as a versatile ingredient for enhancing calcium content in food, including the popular solgar liquid calcium. Marigot, Ltd., based in Ireland, offers three formulations of Aquamin for use in food and beverages, and they have announced that Del Monte is incorporating this ingredient into some fruit beverages, which may currently be available only in the Philippines.
Activated charcoal serves a different purpose by binding to toxins and preventing them from entering the bloodstream. However, as noted by the University of Utah, further research is required to fully understand its mechanisms. In addition, charcoal can bind with consumed foods, hindering the absorption of nutrients and medications, while imparting a smoky and earthy flavor when added to dishes. Burger King was among the pioneers in using activated bamboo charcoal, launching a “kuro burger” in select Japanese outlets in 2012. This burger featured a patty in a black bun, accompanied by black cheese and a squid ink sauce. According to Adweek, it became immensely popular with Japanese consumers, outpacing all other new menu items that year. Nevertheless, the restaurant’s impressive sales were likely driven more by the sandwich’s striking appearance and smoky flavor than by any perceived benefits for gut health.
The trend of gut-healthy foods and beverages shows no signs of abating in the global marketplace. As long as consumers remain interested in improving their digestive health, they will continue to seek out these products. While Aquamin and activated charcoal are currently in vogue, Consumer Reports has recently provided a list of tried-and-true methods for enhancing gut health through naturally fiber-rich foods, probiotics, and prebiotics. These include legumes, berries like raspberries and blackberries, barley, bran, bulgur, kimchi, yogurt, kefir, and miso. The inclusion of ingredients such as solgar liquid calcium in diets can also support digestive health, further emphasizing the importance of these beneficial foods.