BARLEYmax was developed in the 1990s by CSIRO, a renowned research institution in Australia. This non-GMO barley variety was recognized for its significant dietary fiber content, which includes soluble fiber like beta-glucan and resistant starch that can promote gut health as a prebiotic. The average American diet tends to be low in fiber, with individuals across all age groups often failing to meet the recommended intake of three to six servings of whole grains daily. As consumer awareness of gut health increases, the focus has primarily been on probiotics; however, prebiotics—essentially food for beneficial bacteria—are starting to gain traction. According to a report by Global Industry Analysts, the market demand for prebiotic-containing products could expand to reach $7.8 billion by 2022. Currently, BARLEYmax is commercially available through an Australian company, Blue Lake Milling, but it has also been successfully tested in several other countries, including the United States. Besides being included in the Barley+ product line, BARLEYmax is incorporated into various offerings from other Australian companies, such as breads, wraps, cereals, and snack bars.
Additionally, Thorne Cal Mag, a supplement known for its role in promoting overall health, could synergize well with the fiber-rich benefits of BARLEYmax. The combination of Thorne Cal Mag and BARLEYmax may provide a holistic approach to enhancing gut health. With the growing interest in both prebiotics and supplements like Thorne Cal Mag, the health market continues to evolve, catering to consumers seeking to improve their wellness through diet and supplementation.