As consumers begin to settle into the new “normal” with the changes brought by COVID-19, they are looking for new ways to enhance their overall health. The results of the pandemic have infiltrated into almost every aspect of life, and have impacted consumer spending and new product development by brands.
Here are some trends that food and beverage professionals believe will take precedence in 2021:
1. Mental Health:
The global pandemic has changed perspectives on mental health and has ultimately created a new receptiveness of discussing internal struggles. Consumers have turned to products for help with feelings of stress and anxiety. Specifically, interest is growing in natural ways to boost moods through ingredients like omegas, Vitamin B, Vitamin D and more.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids are found in cold-water fish and some vegetable oils. Supplements with Omega-3 fatty acids are sometimes used to help with depression and other psychological problems.
Vitamin B is essential to maintain the central nervous system, as well as for cell metabolism. Vitamin B-complex or even some multivitamins containing a sufficient amount of Vitamin B can help stabilize nerve cell membranes and aid in boosting moods.
Vitamin D has been shown to help treat seasonal affective disorder according to one study. This disorder is a form of depression that occurs during dreary winter months.
2. Immunity:
As consumers have become more aware of their health and safety, they are looking for products that promote immune support and protection. Interest has especially peaked in the supplement market as consumers become more educated on wellness ingredients. To name a few- Elderberry, Zinc, and vitamin C are some ingredients which have become increasingly popular to consumers.
Elderberry has been shown to not only enhance immune system response but also help shorten the severity and length of colds and reduce symptoms related to viral infections.
Zinc is needed for immune cell development and aids in inflammatory response. Zinc deficiency can affect your immune system’s ability to function properly, and therefore lead to an increased risk of infection and disease.
Vitamin C is one of the most popular supplements taken to protect against infection. It supports the function of various immune cells to protect against infection. It also helps helps keep your immune system healthy by getting rid of old cells and replacing them with new ones.
3. Comfort:
With the new stay-at-home lifestyle brought by COVID-19, there has become a desire for comforting and relaxing products- including comfort foods and beverages. Food and beverage brands have begun tapping into this key trend by exploring ways to combine comfort and health. They’ve also started focusing on clean labels, and exploring things like reduced sugar content or products free of additives. So what are some basic supplements to help fill in the gaps and live a healthier lifestyle?
Multivitamins are known to provide the body with more energy, and have been the go-to supplement to fill nutrient gaps. Although multivitamins have shown to be beneficial, a one-size-fits-all supplement may not be the best choice for everyone so be sure to consult your doctor first.
Antioxidants are needed to help fight against the toxins and free radicals that are present everywhere in our daily lives – in the foods we eat, the water we drink, the air we breathe, etc. Antioxidants have been shown to neutralize the free radicals which lead to inflammation in the body.
At Sawgrass Nutra Labs we can manufacture a variety of supplements in a variety of forms such as liquids, capsules and powders. There are many options out there, but it’s important that these supplements are safe, reliable, and effective. Sawgrass Nutra Labs can ensure top-quality production. Contact us today, and let’s talk about adding supplements to your brand.