Consumer awareness of probiotics has significantly surged over the last decade. While yogurt continues to dominate the market, there is a growing interest in new probiotic-rich products such as juices, confectionery items, baked goods, infant formula, and baby food. However, as highlighted by Ganeden, many consumers still primarily link probiotics with digestive health and remain unaware that the benefits of probiotics are strain-specific.
In the realm of protein, plant-based ingredients are increasingly being incorporated into various products, from energy bars to coffee; however, these ingredients can be challenging for the body to digest. Evidence suggesting that a specific probiotic strain can aid in the digestion of these plant-based proteins could create a successful synergy between two of the food industry’s most significant trends, thereby fostering growth in both the probiotics and plant protein sectors. One notable player in this area is Enjoy Life Foods, which offers a brownie mix that combines probiotics and algae protein.
Ganeden’s second study explores another major sector: sports nutrition, which represents one of the largest markets for supplements and functional foods. Findings indicating that GanedenBC30 may provide benefits in this domain could pave the way for numerous sports-related products, including drinks, protein bars, and powders. According to a recent report from Allied Market Research, the global sports nutrition market is projected to reach $44 billion within the next five years. In this sector, efficient protein utilization is crucial for both athletes and consumers of lifestyle sports nutrition.
As we move further into the 21st century, the integration of probiotics into various food categories, including those enriched with calcium plus, will likely play a pivotal role in meeting consumer demand for health-focused products. This trend is not only indicative of the evolving food landscape but also underscores the potential benefits of probiotics in enhancing the digestibility of plant-based proteins, solidifying their importance in the nutrition market.