Creating the best ‘next-generation immunity’ products [Interview]

These trends co-exist with the long-term demand for natural foods, according to Beck. This means less processing, free-from positionings and ingredients with healthy halos such as extracts or botanicals in combination with established nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Plant-based products are also increasingly in demand.

Manufacturers looking to tap into this space with a health and wellness-positioned functional product have a range of appealing active ingredients to choose from.

Within the vitamin space, vitamins C, E and A have so far been the most prominent and well-perceived ingredients for providing immunity benefits while, in recent years, a growing body of scientific evidence increasingly shows the immunity benefits of vitamin D. A sun-deprived lifestyle resulting in low vitamin D synthesis in the body is the major factor for insufficient vitamin D levels and consumer awareness on this is clearly increasing.

Many B vitamins such as B6, B9 – also known as folate – and B12 also provide immunity-related benefits and brands can leverage this. Additionally, emerging science suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may also support a healthy immune function in addition to their well-known benefits related to heart, brain and eye health.

According to Beck, the European health supplement and fortified food and beverage markets remains innovative, despite the presence of stringent regulations specifically in the EU. On the other hand, the clarity of EU regulations – for instance, regarding EFSA-endorsed health claims – can help build consumer trust as people feel confident that brands are able to back up their on-pack claims. However, major innovative step changes or radical ingredient innovations don´t come easily.

Keeping nutrients active and bioavailable

In order to be able to deliver on their claims, however, brands must ensure that the functional ingredients used are still active and bioavailable when they reach the consumer.

Here, DSM’s technical expertise and know-how comes into play, said Elisabetta Nisoli, Manager General Nutrition Premixes at DSM Nutritional Products.

For instance, DSM usually provides fat soluble ingredients such as carotenoids, vitamins A, E, D and K and also omega-3s in the format of microencapsulated water dispersible powders as these can be easily applied and distributed in aqueous food systems.

Even once the final product is ready, external factors such as light, temperature and oxygen exposure continue to play a key role in nutrient stability.

DSM can help its customers in that respect based on competent and experienced technical support that will be provided at its application innovation facilities.