Cardiovascular health, digestive health, general wellbeing, healthy ageing, and immunity are the top five categories that businesses value the most, according to a survey conducted by Vitafoods Asia.
“The emphasis on microbiota is increasing – most people understand the link between health and gut microflore,” says professor Chin-Kun Wang, President of the International Society of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods.
He will be leading several discussions at the show’s Life Stages Theatre and speak in the Digestive Health and Microbiome Summit.
“Prebiotics and probiotics have become key ingredients in nutraceuticals and functional food.”
“Gastrointestinal (GI) health has become an important issue in Asia as economic growth, social stresses and dietary behaviors continue to influence health.”
“GI health products will continue to develop and we will see many innovative prebiotics and probiotics in 2018.”
Seeking standards
Those surveyed said scientifically-proven claims, personalized nutrition, and clean label are the top three trends that their companies are keeping a keen eye on.
As consumers grow in sophistication and awareness of food options, they seek out products that specifically and effectively address their needs.
Overall, the survey participants are appreciative of the move to establish a common standard across the ASEAN region.
More than 70% of respondents found the AEC Harmonisation helpful for their businesses.
That said, many of them also expressed that they were not clear of the details, and that a greater awareness of the AEC standards was necessary.
Manufacturers were most concerned about the area of health claims regulations, as they need to be able to confidently put forth health claims for their products.
Clarifying technical parts of the harmonization is an important hurdle that the industry must cross, but perhaps, what’s most vital to the companies involved is – “How does the AEC Harmonisation really impact my business on the ground?”
The show will be held in Singapore from September 5 to 6, 2017.
