Consumers are increasingly likely to associate gut health with immune health and are looking for holistic solutions to support their immunity, such as via microbiome modulating supplements.
He explains that Cargill's Epicor postbiotic has been clinically shown to provide an immune health benefit via modulation of the
microbiome.
He says that while he understands some companies may not feel comfortable using the term 'postbiotic' on packaging, Cargill is very happy to use this in their communication to encourage more awareness amongst consumers.
"You are seeing consumer awareness of postbiotics continue to creep up. There are various surveys that show they would buy these product for the benefits to their gut...
"I think maybe 15 years ago, consumers maybe didn't make that connection between gut and immune health but with the rise in popularity of probiotics, people are starting to make that connection."
He adds that Cargill did a survey in 2022 which found that 79% of consumers do recognise the link between digestive health and overall health - that number is up 10% since 2018.
"In general, gut health is a leading area of interest for consumers and when you ask them why, building immunity is a key reason for this interest in gut health."