NEW innovative products for a competitive edge!
Consumer demand for healthy, convenient snacks, foods and supplements that provide a functional role in their daily diet is on the rise. At KicX, in order to satisfy these demands, we consistently search for and develop a wide range of innovative, nutritionally sound products and delivery systems through our diverse network of marginal manufacturers.
Following the recent demise of the low-carb craze, the food industry is currently looking into new trends. One of the most interesting (and most likely to be sustainable in the future) is the use of food as a "delivery system" to carry nutrients that are designed to promote health. Consumers are less concerned whether a particular product is food, a supplement, herbal or botanical product, a functional item or a combination. Instead, they want to know if a particular product promotes heart health, strengthens bones, improves joint flexibility or digestion. What are the hot trends in Natural Health Products?
Heart health, sugar reduction and weight management are all topical concerns. Consumers are on the lookout for products which boost energy and cognitive function, speed recovery, support joint health, fight aging, improve digestive health and strengthen bone integrity. No longer are consumers merely reaching for familiar vitamins and minerals. They are embracing a wide range of products – everything from ancient traditional remedies to cutting-edge scientific discoveries. The low-carb craze is being replaced by a focus on slow carbs (carbohydrates such as whole grains which are digested more slowly and do not cause a spike in blood sugar as do their simpler cousins). In Australia, there is a growing focus on the Glycemic Index (GI). Product labels there now show whether various foods have been GI tested. What else is new and exciting? - essential fatty acids (EFAs)
- ingredients that support heart health
- fruit extracts and super juices (pomegranate, noni, acai)
- carotenoids, including lutein, lycopene and beta-carotene
- taurine, other amino acids and guarana (a caffeine source) in energy drinks
- protein products, such as soy and whey
Individual trends within the natural health products category will continue to shift and evolve. What’s clear is that consumers are more interested than ever in taking control of their own health and utilizing every component of their diet – food, beverages, supplements and specialty products – to help them feel and look better, so they can enjoy life to the fullest.
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