Functional ingredients like probiotics could help the food service industry respond to growing consumer focus on wellness, a new report suggests.
The global food service industry has had to adapt quickly to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. Many outlets have shifted to ‘less contact’ models, or have started offering on-the-go and takeaway options to comply with social distancing rules. But the industry will also need to find new ways to respond to the growing consumer focus on wellness, according to the the probiotic brand GanedenBC, a Kerry ingredient.
The new report, “Opportunities for Formulating With Probiotic Ingredients in Food Service?”, shows that wellness, including immune health, was a growing priority for food service consumers even before the current crisis. Globally, 45% try to find the healthiest option when they eat out while 78% want restaurants to offer more options containing functional ingredients.
The report highlights particular potential for probiotics, given the high levels of awareness they command. Research shows that over half (54%) of consumers worldwide are aware that probiotics can promote good digestive health, while 46% know they offer immune system support.
The survey also indicates demand for probiotics in a wide range of food and beverage categories. Nearly half (48%) of consumers would be interested in yogurt containing probiotics, with 38% saying they would like to see them in juices.
John Quilter, vice president and general manager for GanedenBC, said: “These are tough times for the food service industry, but it has done a great job of adapting. The sector will bounce back but when it does, it will need to meet the demands of a new world, with consumers more focused than ever on the protection of their health. Providing options that include functional ingredients is a great way to innovate in a market where wellness is increasingly important.”
Photo: 38% of she survey respondents said they would like to see probiotics in juices