1. The Rising Potential of Probiotics
Probiotics remain one of the most promising ingredients for in-depth development. With growing awareness of the gut-brain connection, probiotics are widely recognized as a symbol of health. Many dairy brands already emphasize digestive health and immunity, making these benefits less unique. As a result, probiotics aimed at supporting mental well-being and emotional balance will likely become more popular. A Swedish company has launched a probiotic product targeting mood, sleep, and stress, tapping into the brain-boosting supplements market, which has grown by 30% over the last five years.
2. Mushrooms Going Mainstream
Mushrooms are expected to play a pivotal role in the growing market for emotional and mental health. Take Lion’s Mane as an example—this distinctive mushroom has a long history in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is valued for its stress-relieving properties. While mushrooms might not have mainstream appeal yet, younger consumers are actively seeking out information on social media about the health benefits of ingredients like mushrooms. This segment of buyers is typically well-informed about product ingredients and their advantages before making a purchase.
3. The "Hyperlink" Between Functional Foods and Everyday Foods
For many consumers, functional foods are closely linked with everyday foods when it comes to improving emotional and mental well-being. Research into natural ingredients like anthocyanin-rich New Zealand blackcurrants and L-theanine from green tea emphasizes their ability to maintain mental clarity and focus. Chocolate, in particular, is a functional ingredient with dual appeal: not only does it boost mood, but it also offers versatility in flavor, masking the taste of certain beneficial ingredients.
4. Boosting Metabolism for Health
While most consumers are unfamiliar with the term "metabolic health," they are conscious of maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding conditions like diabetes. Over the past decade, research has increasingly linked metabolic health to mental health conditions, leading to the development of fields like metabolic psychiatry. Concepts like the ketogenic diet, which originated as a medical treatment for epilepsy, are gaining renewed interest for their potential to improve brain function and mental health. The link between insulin resistance and Alzheimer's disease has prompted some researchers to refer to the condition as "Type 3 Diabetes," sparking further exploration in this area.
5. Blood Sugar Matters
As consumers become more aware of the connection between blood sugar management and emotional well-being, there is growing demand for foods that promote healthy weight and mood balance. Protein, particularly from dairy sources, is a strong contender due to its minimal impact on blood sugar levels. Food companies are increasingly creating products that offer a blend of healthy fats, proteins, and low or no sugar to help consumers maintain steady blood sugar without sacrificing taste.
6. No Fear of Fat
Younger consumers are driving demand for products with “less carbs, more fat” as they prioritize both physical and mental health. Research shows that only 21% of people aged 18-29 believe reducing fat intake is healthy, compared to 47% of those aged 65 and older. As this generation becomes more concerned with blood sugar levels, mood, and overall well-being, more companies are expected to launch products that cater to these needs by focusing on healthy fats and proteins rather than carbohydrates.
7. Collagen, Protein, and Amino Acids
Consumers’ desire for products that genuinely benefit them keeps them open to innovation. Bovine collagen, known for supporting skin, hair, and nail health, has gained widespread acceptance, especially among women of all ages, including Gen Z and younger millennials. Collagen-enriched functional foods have become a staple for many, and this trend is unlikely to fade. Collagen peptides, especially glutamine, glycine, and proline, play key roles in promoting gut health, reducing inflammation, and supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. As more health benefits are discovered, the collagen market is expected to continue expanding, with brands increasingly highlighting its diverse effects on inflammation, digestion, and sleep.
At SRS Nutrition Express, we specialize in supplying high-quality raw materials for the sports nutrition industry. Our goal is to stay ahead of the latest trends to provide our clients with the best ingredients for their product formulations. Whether you're looking for premium probiotics, collagen peptides, or functional proteins, we’ve got you covered with innovative solutions for today’s evolving market.
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Post time: Oct-22-2024
