Food and beverage manufacturers in the US and around the world know which trends are selling products. Just look at the increasing number of food and beverage products like juices, smoothies, chocolate, snack bars, energy drinks and even veggie burgers that contain adaptogen ingredients. For example, during the period from January 2015 to January 2016, products containing the well-known Ashwagandha, enjoyed a massive 63% increase reaching more than US$13 million in sales.
Here to stay
Last year, an Innova Market Insights study reported a 48% increase in the number of foods and beverages containing adaptogen ingredients. The leader of these, Ashwagandha, enjoyed a 25% increase in sales according to the American Botanical Council. So what are adaptogens and why are they so popular?
Adaptogens are defined as, “A non-toxic substance and especially a plant extract that is held to increase the body’s ability to resist the damaging effects of stress and promote or restore normal physiological functioning” (Merriam Webster). They are unique plants or herbs that help balance hormones and improve the body’s resistance to stress. Today in the US alone, 40 million adults suffer from anxiety. Adaptogens can help improve health and wellness by promoting balance and supporting healthy stress levels.
Did you know Adaptogens have been used for hundreds of years in Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda? In Ayurveda, herbs called rasayanas are used to promote rejuvenation and longevity. In traditional Chinese Medicine (TMC), herbs which support the “three treasures” are called superior herbs and are used to support energy, force and consciousness.
NP Nutra® offers a wide variety of premium ingredients, including well-known adaptogens such as:
| Plant | NP Nutra's Ingredients | Applications |
|---|---|---|
Ashwagandha
|
Functional foods | |
Maca
|
Dietary supplements |
For more information, please contact your account manager or request a sample.
