The U.S. health and wellness sector surged 15 percent in 2007 and approached the $100 billion mark for the first time, according to a report by the Natural Marketing Institute (NMI). It also noted double-digit growth will continue with projected sales of $170 billion by 2012.

Functional and fortified foods and beverages made up the largest part of the sector with organic and natural personal care products having growth of 29 percent.

Organic and natural foods and beverages also demonstrated strong growth of 25 percent in 2007. But NMI reports it is functional foods that dominate the health area in terms of sales.

By sector, NMI put 2007 sales at:

• Functional/Fortified Foods & Beverages : $38.6 (12 percent)
• Vitamins, Minerals, Herbal & Dietary Supplements: $21.7 (7 percent)
• Organic Foods/Beverages: $19.0 (25 percent)
• Natural Foods/Beverages: $14.1 (4 percent)
• Natural/Organic Personal Care: $7.8 (29 percent)
• Natural/Organic General Merchandise: $1.5 (21 percent)

Gluten-free foods are also gaining popularity according to market research company Mintel. A March 2007 survey by Mintel showed eight percent of the U.S. population looking for gluten-free products when they shop.

Neilsen Co., which tracks gluten-free food in U.S. grocery, drug and mass merchandiser stores (excluding Wal-Mart), reports that the gluten-free sector increased 20 percent in the 12-month period ending June 14, to $1.75 billion from $1.46 billion a year ago.

Mintel reports 700 new gluten-free products were launched in the U.S. in 2007, up from 214 in 2004. The market research company projects a 15 to 25 percent annual growth rate for gluten-free foods over the next few years.

AMA STUDY GIVES GUARDEDSUPPORT TO HIGH FRUCTOSE SYRUP The American Medical Association (AMA) concluded that high fructose syrup does not appear to contribute more to obesity than other caloric sweeteners. However, AMA called for further independent research to be done on the health effects of high fructose syrup and other sweeteners. The report was introduced at AMA’s annual policy-making meeting in Chicago. "At this time there is insufficient evidence to restrict the use of high fructose syrup or label products that contain it with a warning," said AMA Board Member William Dolan, M.D. "We do recommend consumers limit the amount of all added caloric sweeteners to no more than 32 grams of sugar daily based on a 2,000 calorie diet in accordance with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans." Currently, there are few available studies on the health effects of high fructose syrup and most are focused on the short-term effects. "Obesity continues to be a major public health problem in this country. Overweight and obese adults and children are at an increased risk for chronic health conditions like heart disease and diabetes" said Dr. Dolan. "Eating a healthier diet can help maintain a healthy weight and drastically reduce your chances of developing weight-related illnesses."

STUDY SHOWS ARTICHOKE EXTRACT
LOWERS CHOLESTEROL

A U.K. study showed artichoke leaf extract (ALE) can reduce cholesterol levels in healthy adults, reported Foodproductiondaily.com.

Researchers say levels dropped six percent in otherwise healthy adults with raised cholesterol between a group given 1280 mg of ALE per day and a control group taking a placebo. Plasma total cholesterol levels dropped on average 4.2 percent and increased by 1.9 percent among the control group, making a 6.1 percent differential.

The University of Reading researchers concluded: “This study provides further evidence that ALE may help reduce plasma total cholesterol in adults with mild to moderate hypercholesterolemia. It is suggested that the type and amount of extract used, in addition to the apparent positive health status of the study population, may have affected the observed magnitude of this response.”

Globe artichoke (Cynara Scolymus) is a member of the daisy family. Its leaves have been used in Europe to improve digestive and urinary tract health. Recent studies indicate ALE can benefit dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome.

The key components of ALE are caffeolquinic acids, flavonoids (including luteolin and derivatives such as glucosides) and bitters (sesquiterpene lactones, including cynaropicrin).

FROZEN BEVERAGESA “HOT” ITEM IN RESTAURANTS Frozen beverages or smoothies are making appearances on many quick-service and fast casual restaurant menus this summer. Taco Bell, Einstein Bros. Bagels, Panera Bread and others have added a lineup of frozen beverage treats. Taco Bell introduced its new Frutista Freeze – a permanent line of signature frozen drinks – which comes in both strawberry and strawberry mango topped with real strawberries. Panera Bread froze their lemonade for the summer while Ram Restaurant and Brewery offers frozen lemonade with flavors such as kiwi, pomegranate and watermelon. Flavor variety is key when it comes to enticing consumers. According to Mintel Menu Insights, the top five flavors of frozen beverages on restaurant menus are strawberry, orange, lemon, caramel and mocha. Emerging tropical flavors include kiwi, banana, pineapple and lime.

AUTHOR SEEKS INFO ON
SPACE TRAVEL FOOD

A popular author is seeking information on concept foods for space travel. If you have any experience in the challenges of food development for NASA, please contact NAFFS.

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October 23-26 - The 91st Annual NAFFS Convention, The Resort at Longboat Key Club, Longboat Key, Fla.