Immune system support is the most common reason for consumers to buy healthy lifestyle products, according to new global research.
A survey by Wellmune®, a natural ingredient that is clinically proven to help strengthen the immune system, asked more than 11,000 consumers in 14 global markets about their reasons for buying healthy lifestyle products.1
They were asked to select five options from a list of 13 health areas and rank them in order of importance. Nearly two-thirds (63%) chose immune system support, ahead of healthy bones and joints, good digestive health, improve energy levels and heart health support.
One in five (19.5%) listed immune system support as their number one reason for purchasing healthy lifestyle products, ahead of healthy bones and joints, heart health digestive health and energy levels.
With 42% of global consumers now proactively looking for products that can improve their health,2 Kerry’s proprietary research shows the rich potential of the immune support space for manufacturers and brands in the wellbeing category.
The survey found demand for immune health products to be high across the world, but particularly in Asia. In China, for example, 50% of respondents said they had used an immune health product in the previous six months and a further 29% said they would consider doing so in the future.
The research also reveals that, globally, 70% believe breakfast is the best time for consuming products with immune health benefits. Yogurt and yogurt-based drinks, followed by fruit and vegetable juices, were the categories where there was the greatest interest in immune health benefits.
When asked specifically about Wellmune®, a proprietary beta glucan derived from a strain of baker’s yeast, the majority (55%) of consumers worldwide correctly identified its immune health benefits. More than eight in 10 (82%) said they considered the immune health claims made for Wellmune® to be believable, while more than half (52%) said they would definitely or probably switch to a product with Wellmune® if their usual brand did not contain it.
“Consumers all over the world are increasingly seeking ways to support their immune system, which creates huge opportunities for manufacturers and brands,” notes John Quilter, vice president and general manager at Kerry. “Wellmune is an ideal solution. It is clinically proven to help improve general immune health, can be included in a vast range of food and drink products and boasts high levels of consumer awareness.”
Wellmune® has been shown to help immune cells in the body move more quickly and recognize and destroy foreign challenges. It can also help protect against the effects of stress and promote healthy energy levels and mental clarity.
It has a five-year shelf life, is highly stable and will withstand most processing conditions with no impact on efficacy.
Notes:
[1] Kerry Global Consumer Survey – Digestive & Immune Health, 2019
[2] GlobalData, TrendSights Overview: Health & Wellness, August 2018
Findings from this proprietary consumer survey are available in the new white paper “Consumer Research Supports Global Demand for Immunity Products.” Download the white paper.
About Wellmune®
Wellmune® is a natural food, beverage, and supplement ingredient clinically proven to help strengthen the immune system, making it easier for people of all ages to be well and stay well. Part of Kerry’s ProActive Health portfolio, Wellmune is a proprietary baker’s yeast beta 1.3/1.6 glucan, and is patented, Kosher, Halal, non-allergenic, non-GMO, gluten-free, and organic compliant. As a global brand available in more than 60 countries, Wellmune has regulatory approval in major markets, including GRAS status in the US and novel food approval in Europe and China. A recipient of numerous industry awards, Wellmune is part of Kerry’s nutrition and wellness portfolio.
