In 2021, 72% of consumers were trying to limit or avoid sugar entirely, according to a survey by the International Food Information Council (IFIC). Consuming less sugar will likely remain a key consumer goal in 2022.
Flavors, colors, sweeteners, and inclusions might be the lead actors in dairy product productions. However, gums, stabilizers, and emulsifiers are the supporting actors that can make — or break — a performance.
When it comes to probiotics and prebiotics, you could say today’s consumers are very pro. In fact, according to a 2020 report from Hyderabad, India-based Mordor Intelligence titled “Probiotics Market — Growth, Trends, COVID-19 Impact and Forecasts (2021-2026),” the global probiotic market is expected to have a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.08% during the forecast period of 2020-2025.
Looking at the top 10 list of health positioning for new yogurt products worldwide over the last two years (based on a report from Innova Market Insights), it is a bit surprising that “no-/low-/reduced-fat” tops the list, with “high source of protein” coming in a close second.
It is life in the fast lane for dairy ingredient developers, as the suppliers rush to meet the breakneck shopper demand for wellness-oriented products.
The road to health and wellness is getting more congested. With a rapidly expanding base of consumers seeking and embracing dairy products with better-for-you attributes, processors are leveraging the ingredients that will drive traffic.
By consuming snacks, consumers are meeting a wide range of personal needs ranging from indulgence and comfort to nutritional benefits and emotional considerations. Innovating with dairy ingredients plays an increasing role in this trend.