Fonterra delves deeper into protein and phospholipids for mobility-related innovations to combat Asia’s ageing population
Against the backdrop of longer life expectancy and ageing populations worldwide, Nutiani recently launched its latest report "Proactive Nutrition for Healthy Ageing", which includes insights from 2,500 survey respondents.
The results highlighted cognitive function and mobility as two health aspects that raise increasing concern with age.
“A lot of mobility-related innovations, particularly with dairy, are focused on bone health, which is well understood by consumers. But things like muscle health, strength, and even flexibility are increasingly coming into this space, making [the approach towards] mobility more holistic,” Katie McClure, Director of Category Innovation at Fonterra, told NutraIngredients-Asia.
According to McClure, a major opportunity for mobility — from an ingredient perspective — sits with protein.
“What’s really exciting is that some Asian consumers haven’t gone on the same fast-track journey with protein that their Western counterparts have. However, muscle loss is such a big concern for ageing people. Especially with the massive ageing populations in Asia-Pacific, the problem is felt much more strongly in this region.
“So, we see a huge opportunity to educate consumers on the impact of age-related muscle loss and the relevance of protein intake to combat it. It has always been an important area for us to invest in and where many innovations will be centred on. Data suggests that it is going to continue to be a very big space, and we will be looking at how to further grow in it.”
McClure added that there remains a gap between products and consumers’ expectations, which often boils down to taste.
“Good taste and flavour is what drives repeat purchases, particularly when you are looking at a nutritional product that is high in protein, which sometimes can have an impact on taste. So, that is a big area that we need to address.
“We also want to make product formats, including packaging type, as convenient as possible. For example, a ready-to-drink beverage takes away some of the challenges with consuming protein. Therefore, [innovation is] thinking about these consumer needs as well.”
Leaning into science
While launched primarily to support cognition, stress management, and overall mood, Nutiani’s phospholipids may also positively impact older consumers’ physical and muscle function, as evidenced by a growing body of research.
“Although Nutiani does not carry a direct-to-consumer product portfolio, the latest healthy ageing-related product to have been launched under Fonterra’s milk product brand, Anlene, is Anlene Total 10. Developed using dairy proteins and phospholipids, the high-calcium low-fat milk powder is recommended for adults above 45 years.”
The product is formulated with 10 essential nutrients, namely protein, calcium, vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, D and E, and dietary fibre, to support users in maintaining a balanced diet and active lifestyle.
McClure said that the firm’s scientists and researchers are working to better understand the potential benefits of phospholipids.
“In addition, Fonterra introduced an extensive strategic reflection to understand the current healthy ageing market on a deeper level six months ago. This was done to ensure the relevance and efficacy of any new product that we launch within the category.
“When complete, the findings will support us in developing an effective long-term innovation pipeline, and in delivering a healthy ageing portfolio that resonates with consumers in the long run. We can’t build trust with consumers if we don’t have high-efficacy products. Therefore, we are going to invest more into clinical studies and R&D to ensure that we are able to back the claims and benefits of our products.”
