Today, consumers want more from the foods they buy. Consumers expect health and wellness benefits from food. And traditionally supplements and medications have boasted of these benefits.
Our food and beverage clients want to know about ingredient options to address consumers’ interest in energy and mood management. Our clients want insights on ingredients that
- are in products and may appear in familiar or acceptable descriptions on the ingredient listing
- have proven benefits based on scientific studies and
- have a robust supply chain to ensure a steady, reasonably priced supply.
Specific needs vary with each client. They share a primary challenge around understanding ingredients that impact mood: how do we know if the ingredient is effective?
In our work to determine the efficacy of mood-enhancing ingredients, we identify those that may be applicable to our client’s product and target consumer. We review ingredients in products on the market. We research ingredient claims and provide the client with a broad range of options. Perhaps our client plans to launch products in the next year. If so, we narrow the options based on regulatory approval and supply chain strength.
does the ingredient work, our clients ask?
As we review and evaluate published scientific studies and interview experts in the field, we educate our clients on scientific evidence for each ingredient. The evidence ranges from scientific studies on human subjects to limited studies on model systems or anecdotal evidence. Not all ingredients have been tested fully in humans. We also show whether ingredients need additional studies so that product developers can understand their impact on mood and energy.
how does the ingredient work? and how can ingredients work together?
After reviewing research on the mode of action for compounds in mood-enhancing ingredients, we advise on the impact of combining ingredients, and of adding a new ingredient to current consumer product formulations.
The research we uncovered and prioritized on ingredients and interactions enabled a client to launch a new product line of three single-serve ready-to-drink beverages within six months of our collaboration. Each beverage used a different combination of mood-enhancing ingredients.
For another client, our efficacy work was the first step of the innovation process. The organization used our insights to evaluate energy and mood ingredients in food and beverages across established and new brands in their portfolio.
How can we help your organization understand which ingredients are effective? Contact us.
