Pill fatigue to shape future innovation, as Lallemand spotlights probiotics for holistic health

25 Jan 2022 --- Probiotics are increasingly popular for consumers learning more about the gut-brain axis, a Lallemand Health Solutions trends report for 2022 highlights. Today’s demand for probiotics is driven by mental health concerns and weight management, while the company is developing innovative dosages to minimize pill fatigue.

“The trends that will shape the future of the industry have one thing in common, they answer a real market need,” Camille Binachon, product manager at Lallemand Health Solutions tells NutritionInsight.

Consumers are seeking a holistic approach to health, preoccupied equally by their physical and mental well-being, the company highlights.Holistic health is becoming increasingly important for consumers and industry. 

Gut for the future
A key development is the growing understanding that overall health starts in the gut, says Morgane Maillard, marketing group manager at Lallemand Health Solutions. This is linked to increasing interest in the gut-brain axis. 

As the scientific community becomes more well-versed in the microbiome, the next five years are expected to bring critical advancements around the gut-brain axis, with experts highlighting the importance of the growing space. 

“Consumers comprehend that overall health starts in the gut and that a balanced microbiome will have repercussions on many conditions, including immune health and mental health,” adds Maillard.

Investing in mental health
According to the report, 44.2% of global consumers are willing to spend more money on supplements that offer benefits in improving mental well-being and reducing stress. 

“The psychological impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic are real and caring for mental wellness has become a top priority. During the last years, an increasing number of adults of all ages worldwide reported symptoms of anxiety or depression linked to the stressful and unpredictable situation,” Binachon notes.

FrieslandCampina Ingredients previously noted the importance of the gut-brain axis for bolstering mental wellness – an observation that has not gone unnoticed by consumers. 

“Consumers have turned to various adapted solutions to support and improve their mental health as they understand the impact psychological well-being can have on their physical health,” Binachon adds.Gut-brain axis is set to be a focus point for research. 

Innovative formats
A combination of ingredients in all-in-one capsules is an increasingly popular trend not only for the health benefits but to minimize the number of pills taken, notes the report.

“Experts observe that consumers are tired of taking several capsules or tablets a day to meet their various health needs. When there is an opportunity to offer an alternative dosage format, this is perceived as a real added value by consumers, hence increasing compliance,” highlights Binachon.

Formats can come in a variety of innovative solutions such as orodispersible powder in stick form, chewables or gummies, she adds, which are in line with consumers’ lifestyle as they can be taken on the go. 

“Another benefit to consider is to offer consumers a pleasant sensory experience, hence the importance of carefully developing natural, tasty flavors. There is an opportunity for companies to develop probiotic supplements in a wide variety of innovative dosage formats and in an assortment of flavors to respond to consumers requests.”

Flavor should not be overlooked, the report underscores, as 63.1% of global supplements users state supplements could be improved by having better flavors. 

Balancing the scale
Weight management has evolved far beyond just losing weight, now including lifestyle changes encompassing healthy eating and mental health. 

“In a recent clinical trial, scientists saw a direct demonstration of the role of the brain on eating behaviors. More specifically, the probiotic strain L. rhamnosus HA-114 improved eating and mood-related behaviors in adults with overweight during a weight loss program,” the report highlights.

A survey carried out by Kerry, revealed that demand for probiotics is being driven by increasing interest in digestive health. Nonetheless, the applications are moving beyond gut health, branching out to weight management, stress and immunity.

By Andria Kades