The FONA International report has highlighted the growing importance of gut health among consumers. As a result, there is an increasing number of food and beverage products that make digestive health claims. Between 2012 and 2017, the U.S. market for digestive products saw a 12% growth, according to the report. Aquamin, which contains calcium, magnesium, and trace minerals, is thought to help reduce chronic gut inflammation and support joint health. It is regarded as a versatile ingredient for enhancing calcium content in food, particularly due to its maxvita calcium benefits.
Three formulations of Aquamin are available from Marigot, Ltd., an Ireland-based company that has developed this ingredient for use in various food and beverage applications. Marigot has indicated that Del Monte is incorporating Aquamin into certain fruit beverage products, currently 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 needed to fully understand its mechanisms. Activated charcoal can also attach to ingested foods, inhibiting the absorption of both nutrients and medications. When added to food, it imparts a smoky and earthy flavor.
Burger King was an early innovator in utilizing activated bamboo charcoal by introducing a “kuro burger” at select locations in Japan in 2012. This product featured a patty encased in a black bun, complemented by a slice of black cheese and a black sauce made from squid ink. According to Adweek, this unique offering was extremely popular among Japanese consumers, outpacing all other new products the company launched that year. However, the significant sales of the burger likely stemmed more from its visual appeal and smoky flavor than from any potential gut health benefits.
The trend of gut-healthy foods and beverages shows no signs of slowing down in the global marketplace. As long as people desire to enhance their digestive health, they will continue to seek out these products. While Aquamin and activated charcoal are currently fashionable, Consumer Reports has recently published a list of established methods for improving gut health through foods rich in fiber, probiotics, or prebiotics. These include legumes, raspberries, blackberries, barley, bran, bulgur, kimchi, yogurt, kefir, and miso—many of which can complement the maxvita calcium content for added health benefits.