Consumer’s acceptance of the idea that yogurt, a fermented (cultured) milk, is “good for you” has been so widespread that it has attracted other marketers who are trying to figure out how to capitalize on its popularity.

Chr. Hansen, Hørsholm, Denmark, received the “2012 European Product Leadership Award in Probiotics” from Frost & Sullivan, a global research and consultancy company.

Start with something healthy, and then make it better. That’s the basic recipe for creating a value-added milk-based beverage. Traditionally, the three largest and most active claims about dairy beverages regarded digestive/gut health, heart/cardiovascular health and bone health. But, in recent years, the market has seen many novel dairy beverages that tout energy, immune health, weight control, satiety, anti-aging, skin health, beauty, eye health, joint health, mental acuity and concentration.

Innovations in probiotic dairy products are on the rise. This is a reflection of the increasing demand for probiotics due to consumers’ interest in health and wellbeing. Dairy was the third most commonly named “functional food” in the 2011 Functional Foods Survey conducted by the International Food Information Council.

Probiotic-containing dairy products are gaining in popularity; but do all these products deliver on their promises? Find out more.

Although 72% of Americans are aware of prebiotics’ association with digestive health, according to the International Food Information Council’s 2011 functional foods survey, most would be hard-pressed to describe prebiotics and their functions. That’s understandable. The story of prebiotics and health is not simple. But as scientists learn more, the story becomes more compelling and worth the telling.

Lifeway’s latest kefir flavor, Coconut Chia, is packed with omega-3s and is a good source of protein, fiber, calcium and antioxidants.

DAHlicious Lassi, Chelmsford, Mass., marketers of lassi, a yogurt-based, probiotic beverage popular in India, adds a new flavor — Bourbon Vanilla — to its Made in Vermont product line. The 7-ounce bottle retails for $2.49. Also, the company will sell mango, strawberry and vanilla flavors in a 32-ounce bottle.

On-Demand: An overview of Milk & Beverages in the marketplace.

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