Prebiotic sodas are said to possess strong growth potential in South East Asia (SEA), largely owing to rising consumer interest in gut health, and an increasing number of companies making strides in product development and launches.
New Zealand-based Ārepa is doubling down on ensuring compliance with regulations regarding health claims and product labelling through submission of a scientific dossier, repackaging, and continuous research.
Singapore start-up Flojo has debuted its sparkling drinks formulated with botanical ingredients aimed at supporting cognitive function, strengthening immune system, and improving mood and mental clarity.
Japanese firm DyDo DRINCO recently released functional beverages targeted at skin-conscious female consumers, as well as beverages fortified with magnesium and vitamin D, nutrients that the firm says is lacking in the Japanese diet.
Aussie brand Savvy Beverage has called out what it believes is the prevalence of highly priced functional beverages that contain inadequate beneficial ingredients, imploring greater honesty and transparency among companies to advance the emerging category....
New York-based CURE aims to launch its range of CBD-focused functional beverages and dietary supplements in Japan by April, while adapting some of its products to meet regulatory requirements in other Asian markets.
Functional beverage is becoming a cheaper alternative to health supplement as consumers tighten their budget amid the current microeconomic environment, according to the observations of functional ingredients distributor Brenntag.
Consumers in the Middle East are increasingly looking for protein-rich products to fulfil various needs, with claims ranging from sports performance to age-related muscle support.
Singapore’s Sustenir has expanded its business portfolio to include functional food products, such as ready-to-drink smoothies, to support what it believes is a long-term growth opportunity.
New Zealand-based FMCG company Red Shoots says consumers are increasingly looking for products with functional benefits in supermarkets, which has sparked partnership opportunities with major retailers.
This round-up looks at how brands from Singapore and Australia have formulated postbiotic supplements and coffee, as well as how a South Korean vitamin sachet brand is planning to expand its presence in South East Asia.
A probiotic beer developed by researchers from the National University of Singapore (NUS) has finally hit the market, launched by start-up Probicient in collaboration with bar and restaurant chain Brewerkz.
UAE non-alcoholic drink online marketplace and distributor Drink Dry says that functional beverages are an emerging trend in the region and is looking to list more of such products on its platform.
Functional juice company Doki Doki has developed a beauty-from-within product that reduces photosensitivity and hyperpigmentation using prebiotic as the key ingredient.