Following reports that its fiber-rich wheat ingredient has performed well in its first year in US retail stores, Arista Cereal Technologies (Arista) and Limagrain are marketing a new wheat ingredient in Europe.
Largely lacking in Western diets, resistant starch is a fermentable fiber that is more resistant to digestion in the small intestine, reducing the spike in blood sugar that occurs after a meal.
This fiber moves on to the bowel, where it contributes to the gut microbiome’s health. It is thought to have a protective effect against bowel cancer. Official health claims are available for this natural fiber and positive impact on glycemic response.
Several years ago, trials started in Europe for a range of wheat-based products from high fiber wheat, and a long-term distribution contract was signed between Limagrain and Arista earlier this year.
Evolving consumption habits
“Food industries are increasingly interested in [our] high fiber wheat, providing an easy way to close the fiber gap without changing local consumption habits. We intend to supply high fiber wheat ingredients to all food industries targeting increased health benefits in their products,” says Lionnet.
“It is a bit early to see the wider impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, we can imagine that as diabetics and obese consumers have been identified as a growing population, nutrition will take a part more important in the buying act,” she continues.
What motivates the company is that it can actively participate in improving the nutritional profile of its current alimentaire diets by increasing the proportion of fiber and resistant starch in cereal products, says Lionnet.
“Resistant starch is known for its positive action on the glycemic load and its positive effects on intestinal health,” she adds.
As overall health and wellness continue to be at the top of consumers’ minds, fiber and its range of uses and applications are expected to flourish with more innovative NPD. From sugar reduction to gut health, as well as meat alternatives, fiber remains a crucial ingredient.
Earlier this year, NutritionInsight reported that the fiber space is ripe for innovation. Many of its staple trends, such as organic, clean label, gut health, and sugar reduction, are enjoying renewed popularity due to COVID-19 leading wellness demands.
Source: Nutrition Insight
