As part of a global effort to raise physical and mental health awareness, manufacturers are formulating products with functional ingredients associated with these areas of wellness. Such products carry claims that suggest an improvement in the consumers’ state of health and overall well-being, as opposed to claims that only target a single health benefit. For example, Daisy Sweetened Milk from F&N in Vietnam is a UHT-processed fresh milk that is enriched with taurine for mental development and energy. It also contains 31 vitamins and minerals, as well as ingredients that promote good vision. The product retails in a pack containing four 200ml bottles.

Nestlé in Malaysia is promoting health through the formulation of products targeted to children three years old and higher. The Nespray Original 3+ Milk Powder is claimed to contain 50% more docohexanoic acid (DHA) than most brands of milk powder. DHA is an omega-3 fatty acids claimed to optimize visual and brain development. Another key component of this milk powder is prebio™, which is a proprietary blend of natural fibers and nutrients claimed to enhance children’s learning ability.

Contributed by Felicia McClain, analyst, Global New Products Database (GNPD) Consulting Services, a division of Mintel International, a global research company. For more information call 312/932-0400, or visit www.gnpd.com.