Health and nutrition are significantly shaping trends across various sectors within the food and beverage industry, as highlighted by FrieslandCampina Ingredients during their presentation at FiE in Frankfurt. The company is strategically investing in this trend to meet growing consumer demands for health-optimized products.
Do consumers want high protein?​
According to Vicky Davies, global marketing director for performance, active, and medical nutrition at FrieslandCampina Ingredients, there is a strong consumer demand for health and nutrition-related products. The emphasis on high-protein offerings has “gone mainstream.” Rather than being limited to sport nutrition, protein is now “incorporated into everyday foods.” Notably, proteins are finding their way into items traditionally labeled as unhealthy, such as desserts, reflecting the “healthy indulgence” trend.
Furthermore, consumer awareness is evolving. “Consumers are becoming much more aware of the different types and levels of quality” of the proteins they are consuming, Katie Verlaan, global marketing manager in performance, active, and medical nutrition at FrieslandCampina Ingredients, explained to FoodNavigator. This shift means that consumers are not only looking for products that contain protein but are also considering both the levels and quality of the protein provided.
To address these evolving consumer preferences, FrieslandCampina’s portfolio includes a diverse range of proteins, such as the milk protein lactoferrin and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), derived from fish. Additionally, the company offers an algae-based form of DHA, catering to vegetarian and vegan product lines.
Regarding the application of these ingredients, the company has established a ‘stronghold’ in medical nutrition, engaging with “all the big players” in this field. FrieslandCampina also maintains a strong presence in sports nutrition and, notably, in active nutrition. Active nutrition is broader than sports nutrition and encompasses functional foods and beverages, as well as high-protein yogurts and protein bars with varying protein content.
How is the company investing in prebiotics?​
In addition to protein, FrieslandCampina Ingredients is making significant investments in prebiotics, a sector that has garnered considerable consumer interest in recent years. Davies emphasizes that the company is a global leader in Galactooligosaccharide, a prebiotic derived from lactose that positively influences the composition of the gut microbiome. This ingredient is essential for gut health and is increasingly recognized for its link to overall holistic health.
