New research, conducted on behalf of Beneo, reveals that consumers are now even more focused on “positive” ageing. The research, carried out by HealthFocus International, includes an exclusive analysis of the health-conscious 50+ age range. It shows that those aged over 50 want to be able to continue with the activities that they enjoy in their latter years and are increasingly looking to food and drink alternatives to support this goal.

Myriam Snaet, Head of Market Intelligence and Consumer Insights at Beneo, commented: “Today’s over-50’s want to be proactive in managing their health and want to live their life to the fullest. Being well aware that food choices have an effect on overall health, they are looking for food and drink products that offer additional health support, such as lowering blood glucose levels or improving digestive health. Manufacturers can help them achieve these goals by developing products that tap into these specific health benefits through the use of Beneo’s functional ingredients, including the slow-release sugar, Palatinose and prebiotic chicory root fibres oligofructose and inulin, that can easily fit into their daily routines without compromising on taste.”

For producers looking to make the most of the increasing consumer desire to manage their blood glucose, bone health and digestive health, Beneo’s products offer solutions that are backed by sound science. Palatinose (isomaltulose), for example, is a slow-release sugar which occurs naturally in honey and is derived from sugar that is naturally extracted from sugar beets. It delivers a lower rise in blood glucose, whilst providing full carbohydrate energy. It supplies the body with 4 kcal/g and contributes to daily energy intake from carbohydrates, thus making it an ideal ingredient to help support blood sugar management.