Expert urges food manufacturers to focus on functional foods

Food producers must acknowledge and address the growing consumer desire for functional foods that not only enhance wellbeing but also align with the fast-paced routines of the modern workforce.

These are the words of Andreas Preisler, strategic business development manager for Health and Nutrition at Ohly, a provider of yeast-based solutions to support immune health, who believes an emphasis on functional foods, which provide health support as well as basic nutrition, is now more important than ever.

The International Food Information Council’s annual Food & Health Survey revealed that the pandemic altered the food habits of 85% of consumers, with approximately 1 in 5 making healthier choices.

This trend has continued since, as evidenced by data from Statista in March 2024, which revealed that 60% of consumers are actively trying to eat healthily, while 25% prioritise convenience and speed in their food choices, especially with many individuals returning to office settings following the pandemic.

Recent data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) indicates that 41% of people had reported commuting to work in recent months, rather than working from home.

According to the Innova Trends Survey 2024, more than 1 in 4 consumers claim to be “proactive” in preventing health issues.

Functional foods can go beyond basic nutrition by enhancing digestive health, decreasing inflammation, and strengthening the immune system.

Food manufacturers can incorporate beta-glucans into breakfast cereals and bars to better meet the needs of health-conscious consumers. In addition to offering immune support, yeast beta-glucans have also been shown to contribute to cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol levels.

Preisler suggests manufacturers could also consider adding medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) as a great way to provide a source of healthy fats, and a quick energy boost. NEIVA MCT Immune can be formulated in various dosage forms and has many applications in functional food, sports nutrition, and dietary supplements.

Food manufacturers wanting to enhance the nutritional content of dairy products like yoghurt, or plant-based alternatives such as almond or oat milk, should consider incorporating yeast beta-glucans into their recipes. MCT, medium-chain triglycerides, can also be incorporated into products such as creamers and smoothies.

For taste and texture, it is important to use finely milled powder that is insoluble to maintain a creamy consistency. NEIVA MCT Powder and NEIVA MCT Immune are designed to enhance texture, nutrition and functionality offering seamless dispersion with a free-flowing easy-to-use powder. This will enable manufacturers to incorporate added health benefits, without compromising on palatability.

Medium-chain triglycerides are particularly important when it comes to sports nutrition as they are rapidly absorbed into the body and quickly converted into energy.

Incorporating MCTs into energy bars and gels, or fortifying sports drinks and smoothies can play a large role in providing sustained energy and improving endurance.

By food manufacturers focussing on integrating immune-boosting components such as beta-glucans and MCTs into popular foods, we can do our part to aid in fortifying the immune systems of consumers whilst still providing quick, convenient food solutions.

Andreas Preisler, strategic business development manager for Health and Nutrition at Ohly says: “There are different types of beta-glucans, from various sources including yeast, oats and fungi. Beta-glucans derived from yeast, especially those sourced from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, commonly known as baker’s yeast, have demonstrated impressive effectiveness in regulating the immune system.”

The demand for these foods has surged in recent years, as consumers continue to grow more health-conscious and aware of what they consume. Research suggests that the convenience of food is a high priority for many. Driven by a public increasingly interested in proactive health measures, the pressure is on food manufacturers to provide healthy solutions to those on the go.

“Ohly’s NEIVA Glucan Max contains high-quality yeast beta-glucan with a high degree of branching, which naturally stimulates the immune system,” Preisler adds. “It is both a prebiotic and a fibre NEIVA MCT Immune, incorporated into sports nutrition products like energy gels, recovery drinks, and protein powders that can contribute to appetite balance and support weight management. As veganism and flexitarianism continue to gain popularity, along with the increasing demand for dairy and meat substitutes, NEIVA MCT Plant-Based Powder can serve as an excellent dairy alternative replacement.

“employing ingredients like these, we can help consumers support their health and overall wellbeing.”

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