The Global Market for Brain Health Food and Ingredients 0
According to the NutraIngredients cognitive health series, which examines the market, supply, science and regulation behind the cognitive health category, the cognitive health functional category is defined as foods, beverages or dietary supplements that help promote mental health, improve mental performance and uplift mood.
More specific benefits of cognitive health functional foods and nutritional supplements include: enhancing cognitive ability, protecting the brain from damage, fighting the effects of aging (such as memory loss or dementia), addressing depression, and concentration problems, aiding in relaxation, and even helping to reduce aggressive behavior.
Data pooled from market analysts including Euromonitor, Datamonitor and Frost & Sullivan identify a number of key ingredients in the category that can support brain function. These include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Omega-3, ginko biloba, ginseng (improved memory)
- CoQ10 (slows Parkinson’s disease)
- Phospolipids: Phosphatidyl choline and phosphatidyl serine – e.g. soy lecithin (fight dementia, cognitive decline)
- St John’s wort, soy lecithin (combat depression)
- Omega-3, PS (phosphatidylserine), Gaba, creatine (brain function)
- Green tea, tryptophan, Gaba, ginko biloba (mood)
- Guarana, caffeine, ginseng (energy boosting)
Supplements lead the Cognitive Health Category
In the food and beverage category, GNPD tracked 276 new cognitive health products launched globally in 2008, and 388 new products in 2009 to date. Europe and the US accounted for 45 and 56 new products respectively in 2008, and 44 each in 2009. Teas and infusions, water-based drinks and energy drinks are leading the way in beverages. Omega-3 fortified yoghurts, milk and drinking yoghurts are leading the way in dairy.
However, according to Frost & Sullivan, dietary supplements are leading the way in the cognitive health market – and Euromonitor confirms that supplements are “increasingly garnering favor with consumers”.
Euromonitor splits the market up into three main areas: Brain function, energy boosting and mood.
Japan ahead
According to Euromonitor, Japan is the biggest market for cognitive health food and supplements.
US Market for Cognitive Health Supplements Growing
Due to the ageing population of Baby Boomers in the U.S., and the related increased prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease, consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the need for cognitive health nutritional supplements to support brain function.
There are many cognitive health nutritional supplement formulations on the market. One of the most recognized is Cognivite from AmeriSciences, a privately-held specialty nutritional supplement company based in Houston, TX which has a joint development agreement with NASA/Johnson Space Center. The Cognivite formula was developed by renowned geriatric neurologist Dr. Marwan Sabbagh and was launched in 2008. To learn more about Cognivite, click here.
