Successful Concept Tests for Diabetes Management Ingredient

With an estimated 6% of the global adult population suffering from type 2 diabetes, these findings indicate clear market potential for food and beverage based solutions and highlight the significant opportunities available to manufacturers.

12/11/08 Research conducted by DSM has revealed the strong consumer appeal of everyday products which enable the control of blood glucose levels through diet thanks to the addition of its InsuVital ingredient. With an estimated 6% of the global adult population suffering from type 2 diabetes, these findings indicate clear market potential for food and beverage based solutions and highlight the significant opportunities available to manufacturers.

Carried out in collaboration with key customers, the tests assessed the consumer appeal of market-leading products enriched with DSM’s InsuVital.  Derived from milk protein, InsuVital is clinically proven to control blood glucose levels after meals.  During the research in the UK, Russia, Spain and Germany, 200 - 500 consumers were offered product concepts which included beverages and supplements. When asked about future buying intentions, consumers responded positively, with a high percentage claiming the concepts were an attractive proposition and would definitely purchase the products if they became available.

InsuVital is an extensively hydrolysed casein consisting of bioactive peptides which work with the body to release insulin after intake. This results in a reduction in glucose levels post-meal similar to those seen in non-diabetics and improved overall blood sugar control. A highly versatile powder, InsuVital can be incorporated into a wide range of functional food and beverage applications.

Erik Lommerde, business manager diabetes, DSM said, “We are delighted with the results of this research. This positive feedback demonstrates the huge market appeal of foods and beverages which enable consumers to actively control glucose levels through diet. This feedback gives us valuable insight into the market potential for products containing InsuVital. 

“Type 2 diabetes is a global issue. Although not intended to replace medication, InsuVital can help diabetics manage their condition throughout the disease’s early progression – from pre-diabetes to diagnosis.  Recent commercial success in Europe also demonstrates the product’s efficacy and appeal. This research will give our customers further evidence of InsuVital as a positive proposition for consumers and its role in this dynamic sector.”

DSM promotes InsuVital as offering a solution for everybody who would like to manage their glucose levels, including people at risk from developing diabetes and type 2 diabetic patients. It actively lowers blood glucose levels, giving blood glucose control back to the patient in a safe and effective way. Currently a water beverage containing InsuVital is available on the market in the Benelux region, with several sachet powder applications being developed for launch in a number of European countries. InsuVital can be used in powder sachets as well as in a number of other applications including dairy products, beverages (including water), fruit juice and fruit smoothies. Other applications include soup, ice cream, and cereal bars.