Plant and herb extracts have long been used to enhance the healthfulness, color, and even taste and flavor of foods, beverages and supplements. With an often “natural” positioning, their popularity is assured.
Research indicates that ß-glucans derived from oats, yeast and mushrooms play a positive role in modulating the immune system in athletes, allergy sufferers, and those who frequently contract colds and the flu. Strengthening the immune system can have significant impact on overall well-being, mood, and performance.
Stevia has been long cultivated as a sweetener. The extracts of the leaves, steviol glycosides, are responsible for its sweet characteristics; the main two steviol glycosides are stevioside and rebaudioside A (reb A).
A new product concept from the Martin Bauer Group, through its Plantextrakt business unit, promises new formulations and ingredients based on the performance-enhancing properties of natural tea and herbal extracts to boost both mental and physical performance.
A new clinical trial study suggests that FenuLife®, marketed by Frutarom Inc., as an aid to improve blood glucose response, is also a safe alternative to pharmaceutical acid-reflux and heartburn medications.
As marketers of conventional foods, functional foods and dietary supplements pore over data looking for new product opportunities that answer consumer needs, foods and beverages that address health issues, often specific health conditions, come to the forefront.