Christian Philippsen, Managing Director, BENEO, Asia Pacific
What exactly are functional ingredients, and how do they support our health?
These are substances added to foods, supplements, or even skincare products that go beyond basic nutrition, and contribute to improved bodily functions. Many functional ingredients are already well-known — think Omega-3 fatty acids, collagen, spirulina, and others that offer targeted health benefits.
Also when it comes to basic macronutrients for the body – carbohydrates, both simple and complex, and protein – there are functional ingredients available which offer additional benefits. In doing so, they can support in managing or preventing chronic diseases – let’s shine the spotlight on functional fibres, proteins and carbohydrates, demonstrating how manufacturers can tap into consumers’ rising demand for nutrient-rich foods that support long-term health.
Beyond Basics #1: Smart Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are fuel for body and brain and hence an essential part of a balanced diet. They should make up 45% to 65% of the total calorie count. But especially when it comes to carbohydrates, it’s about the right choice. Most carbohydrates are readily available for breakdown and uptake; they deliver fast energy that is gone shortly after. With regard to blood sugar levels – that means a rapid rise with a subsequent drop once insulin has transported the sugar in the cells (what is commonly known as the ‘boost and crash’ effect). Big fluctuations in blood sugar levels stress the body’s metabolism, and have been linked to an increase in the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
BENEO offers the alternative carbohydrate Palatinose™ (generic name: isomaltulose). It is made from sugar beet and delivers full carbohydrate energy with 4kcal/g. Sucrose from beet sugar is converted to isomaltulose by a process of enzymatic rearrangement, leading to a different molecular linkage than in sucrose. As such, it is more stable and released at a slower rate to the body, causing lower impact on blood sugar levels and insulin release. It is also worth noting that moderate blood sugar levels are associated with a better energy status, improved cognitive functions and can also lead to less cravings.
Food manufacturers can use this slow-release sugar to replace sucrose in all kinds of food and drinks. Palatinose™ is also the preferred choice for sports nutrition products as it provides an optimised use of energy sources and increased fat burning.
Beyond Basics #2: Functional Fibres
While all fibres contribute to digestive health, functional fibres specifically enhance physiological functions or reduce disease risk. As consumers become increasingly health-savvy and seek out nutritional information, it’s no surprise that 1 in 2 people globally have heard of beta-glucans[1], a form of soluble fibre that has been shown to support heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and improving overall cardiovascular function. While they are naturally available in oats and barley, they are present in low dosages, making it a challenge for people to achieve the required intake of 3/g a day.
This is why food manufacturers turn to BENEO’s Orafti® β-Fit, made from barley and containing 20% beta-glucans —a beta-glucan rich barley flour. With a total fibre content of 40% (inclusive of beta-glucans), Orafti® β-Fit also promotes digestive health by promoting bowel regularity and supporting gut microbiota for enhanced nutrient absorption — which is essential for maintaining vitality as we age.
Besides beta-glucans, prebiotic ingredients are part of the fibre portfolio. BENEO is a leading manufacturer of prebiotic fibre from chicory root. Prebiotics are undigestible in the small intestine. When reaching the large intestine, they serve as food for particular health-promoting microorganisms. That way, the beneficial bacteria, such as Bifidobacteria, multiply in greater numbers. Hence, prebiotics contribute to a healthy microbiome which is the fundament for gut health, immune health, metabolic health, and brain health.
Next to boosting the fibre content of products and providing a prebiotic effect, BENEO’s prebiotic fibres Orafti® Inulin and Oligofructose allow for sugar and fat replacement, thereby further improving the nutritional profile of foods. For instance, manufacturers can opt to use oligofructose, which has 30% the sweetness of sugar to help promote balanced blood glucose levels by replacing sugar or other high glycaemic carbohydrates, while at the same time enriching the fibre content of foods.
Beyond Basics #3: Power-Packed Proteins
Compared globally, Asia Pacific dominates the plant-based food market, driven by government R&D initiatives and new partnerships between local and international food companies[2]. Still, the novelty of plant-based products has diminished, and food developers are increasingly turning to plant-based beverages as a key strategy.
For instance, plant-based protein-enriched smoothies and vegan drinks have become staples in consumers’ healthy lifestyles. However, protein-enriched drinks are not the easiest to formulate, with many drinks leaving a residue at the bottom of the bottle.
Enter faba bean, also known as fava or broad bean, a source of dietary fibre, protein, as well as vitamin C, folates, calcium, phosphorous, iron, and zinc. Beyond their nutritional benefits, BENEO’s faba bean protein offer a host of textural advantages. Their high solubility creates a beautifully homogenous and stable drink with a pleasant texture and good taste. In addition, faba protein has good emulsifying and foaming properties, which is useful for preparing plant-based drinks such as vegan cappuccinos with dairy-free coffee creamer.
As consumer interest grows in holistic health, these ingredients are becoming more sought after in functional foods, supplements, and daily products. By using BENEO’s functional ingredients, manufacturers are able to develop foods and drinks that deliver beyond basic nutrition, so consumers can best gain all optimal nutritional benefits for a healthier and holistic 2025.
[1] FMCG Gurus Digestive Health Surveys 2022
[2] Research and Markets – Global Plant-Based Food Market (by Type, Distribution Channel, & Region): Insights and Forecast with Potential Impact of COVID-19 (2022-2027)
