Increased Demand for Nutrient-Rich Food and Beverages
Continuous Launch of Granola with High Dietary Fiber
Hy 'Swhim' Containing Theanine Sells 5 Million Units
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, interest in individual nutritional status has increased, and the trend of "nutritional supplementation through food" has become more pronounced. As more consumers focus on self-care to manage their physical and mental health preventively, there is a growing tendency to seek foods and beverages containing nutrients such as vitamins and minerals that help with aging, cognitive function, and skin health.
According to a survey conducted by global market research firm Mintel on 1,000 internet users aged 18 and over, 44% of domestic respondents said they plan to consume more nutritious foods and beverages.
With the advent of the 100-year lifespan era, awareness is growing that maintaining healthy eating habits and consuming healthy foods are important for healthy aging. Dietary fiber is notably recognized as a key nutrient to consume for healthy longevity. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the recommended daily intake of dietary fiber for adults is 25?29g. Adequate intake of dietary fiber is reported to help prevent diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, as well as support gut health and weight management.
Related product launches are also continuing. Nongshim Kellogg introduced a new granola product last month using "bran (wheat bran)," which contains dietary fiber 20 times that of apples. Bran is the outer layer or husk left after milling wheat and sifting, known to be rich in dietary fiber, protein, and B vitamins.
Pulmuone launched "High Dietary Fiber Cheongpomuk" this month, which has a high dietary fiber content. It also features "indigestible maltodextrin," a functional ingredient recognized by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. Additionally, SPC Samlip released "Roman Mill Whole Wheat Bread," which is high in dietary fiber and protein. Seoul Milk introduced "All Day Fruit Kiwi," a juice beverage made from kiwi containing 100 mg of vitamin C and 2,000 mg of dietary fiber.
As stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue are recognized as significant issues, the launch of products using nutrients such as vitamin B, magnesium, and L-theanine to support brain function and mental stability is also increasing. Nutrients in foods affect cognitive ability and play an important role in optimizing brain function and preventing cognitive decline.
One of the nutrients recently gaining attention in the food industry is L-theanine. L-theanine is an amino acid known for its mental relaxation effects, blood pressure reduction, and improvement of learning ability, with growing demand among consumers who need stress and tension management.
hy launched a dairy product called "Stress Care Shim" in February, containing five patented probiotics and L-theanine. hy promotes Shim as helpful for gut health and relieving tension caused by stress. Recently, the product surpassed 5 million units in cumulative sales within six weeks of launch, which is interpreted as a rapid increase in demand due to more people experiencing stress, depression, and mental fatigue during the pandemic.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.



