Operational innovation: wellness formats for foodservice

From nutritional bars to yogurt, food products with functional ingredients are in demand in the snack category

KerryDigest Fast Facts:

• Digestive health, immune health and added protein are all areas of focus for people looking to take greater control over their health.

• Functional ingredients in foods are a growing trend as consumers search for options outside of supplements.

• As nutraceuticals, or foods with functional ingredients, become more popular, the snack category is an area of opportunity.

KerryDigest Full Scoop:

A growing number of consumers are taking a proactive approach to health and wellness, turning to food over medicine as a means to wellness. This trend has given rise to a new category, nutraceuticals, or foods and beverages with added functional ingredients. A recent consumer survey among U.S. adults found that 79% would prefer to consume probiotics in a food or beverage product rather than a pill or supplement, according to Survey Sampling International (SSI), and data shows there’s also increased interest in immune support and high-protein foods and drinks.