US-based agribusiness corporation Cargill has introduced its specialised nutrition category at the ongoing Vitafoods Asia nutraceutical trade show in Bangkok, Thailand.
According to Cargill, these science-backed solutions aim to address health and well-being across all stages of life. The introduction responds to increasing consumer demand for more deliberate food and beverage choices to maintain good health.
At the event, Cargill presented five prototypes to support the demand for preventive care and tailored diets. These include postbiotic gummies with EpiCor, plant-based high-protein and fibre bars with choline, plant-based performance powder with pea protein, as well as plant-based gummies and capsules containing algae Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA).
Cargill’s portfolio provides food companies with solutions addressing diverse health needs, ranging from brain function to digestive health.
According to Cargill’s 2024 TrendTracker study on consumer trends in Asia, 68% of consumers are actively seeking to prevent health issues through their food choices. Health-focused products continue to grow in popularity, with one in six food and beverage launches in 2023 carrying health-related claims.
The report also highlights that plant-based products in Asia are expanding at a 26% annual growth rate. Cargill’s solutions focus on both macro and micro-nutrients, targeting specific health needs at various life stages.
Cargill APAC specialised nutrition commercial director Jing Yu said: “Whether it is early nutrition for the first 1,000 days of a child’s life, active nutrition to boost performance for athletes and support active lifestyles, or medical nutrition to support ageing, bringing these benefits to consumers is the inspiration for our innovation.
“We believe in co-creating with our customers solutions that are relevant for the different life stages, to bring the right nutrients that deliver a holistic range of health benefits such as support for brain, immunity, gut and digestion, growth and development, mobility, and metabolism.”
Earlier this year, Cargill signed an exclusive distribution agreement for its EpiCor products in Europe with Chemical and ingredient distributor Brenntag.
