Cutting-edge probiotics

Demand for probiotics in China is attracting numerous companies to enter this growing market segment. As an innovator in the field of microbiome, ADM offers a series of diversified microbiome solutions focused on numerous health benefit areas including, digestive health, immune health and metabolic health. The company’s solutions were featured at the 2024 Asia Natural and Nutraceutical Products Exhibition (HNC 2024) under the theme of "Tomorrow’s Health & Wellness Solutions, Fueled by Science".

At this event, Ms. Helen Hu, President of Health & Wellness APAC at ADM, talked about some of the current market challenges and the company’s latest advancements to help address the latest consumer needs.  

Ms. Helen Hu, President of Health & Wellness APAC at ADM

Breakthrough products demonstrate ADM's strength in scientific research

At HNC 2024, ADM launched the newly approved spore-forming probiotic DE111, which is the first Bacillus subtilis food ingredient strain to be approved by the National Health Commission in China.

"DE111 exhibits shelf-life stability superior to general lactic acid bacteria probiotics, which makes it suitable for a wide range of different foods, beverages, and dietary supplements” Ms. Hu said.

The company’s range of microbiome star products also include the probiotic BPL1® and the heat-treated postbiotic BPL1® Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. Lactis, CECT 8145, to help support weight management goals with clinically documented results showing a positive impact on markers of metabolic health, including BMI.  

Clinical studies demonstrate that the probiotic Bifidobacterium longum, CECT 7347(ES1) and postbiotic heat-inactivated Bifidobacterium longum subsp. Longum, CECT 7347 (ES1) may support gut and digestive health, while the Restore Probiotic Combo may support digestive, respiratory and skin health in children.

ADM's innovation extends beyond the product itself and the product formulation. Addressing consumer demand for good taste and convenience, ADM uses a preparation technology that allows its probiotic powder to dissolve quickly, while at the same time ensuring stability.

"This technology can also be used as a multi-functional carrier, combining multiple nutrients such as probiotics, postbiotics and prebiotics into powders, tablets and effervescent tablets. This innovation not only brings an extraordinary sensory experience but also caters to the needs of young consumers who are looking for novelty” Ms. Hu said.

Opportunities and challenges: The two sides of the probiotics market

According to ADM Outside Voice, China's probiotic supplement market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.7% between 2021 and 2026^[i]. This growth is driven by strong state support for innovation, a large population base, strong economic strength, and rising health awareness among consumers. However, the rapid development of the market comes with challenges.

"Although China's probiotics industry has made great progress in the past two years, it continues to face challenges,” said Ms. Hu. “Probiotics remain a relatively new concept for many consumers with limited understanding of the product and a lack of access to information, particularly regarding mechanism of action and how to choose probiotics, tailored to their needs.”

ADM is continually examining the potential benefits of microbiome-supporting solutions, including prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics, for different aspects of well-being. "These in-depth studies not only help us understand their performance and mechanism of action, but also explores synergies with other ingredients. These scientific accumulations have laid a solid foundation for our customers to expand in the field of probiotics.”

Global vision, local intelligence: ADM's one-stop solution

In the face of ever-changing consumer needs in the Chinese market, ADM provides a comprehensive one-stop solution for brand owners. "We not only offer high-quality raw materials, but also tailor innovative formulations for our customers, covering the entire process from targeting specific health areas to strain screening & selection, strain production, formulation, trail production and stability, right up to production and commercialization. Our global network of resources and local expert team are better equipped to help customers effectively deal with complex challenges including solutions for cross-border e-commerce,” said Ms. Hu.

ADM's advantages are also reflected in its global vision and resource integration capabilities. "We are committed to bringing successful cases and best practices from Korea, United States, Europe, Southeast Asia, Australia and other regions to the Chinese market. At the same time, we are also actively exploring the introduction of some niche but promising functional ingredients into China, such as curcumin in the early days, which can bring more health-focused choices to Chinese consumers,” she said.

Focus on diversified development, scientific research and product innovation

Looking ahead, ADM will continue to deepen its expertise in the field of probiotics and expand new application directions.

"We will explore the connections between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis, the gut- skin axis, and develop products for skin health, emotional health, immune health, women's health, healthy aging and other market segments. For example, we're looking at how probiotics affect skin metabolism and improve bone health in menopausal women and the elderly,” said Ms. Hu.

In addition to human nutrition, ADM will also focus on pet health. "In the post-pandemic era, the number of pet owners increased significantly. We are collaborating with a number of research institutions to conduct cutting-edge research on pet microbiomes.”

Ms. Hu added that the company will increase its investment in scientific research and promote product innovation. “We are committed to promoting the development of health-focused solutions for the wellness sector through scientific research and innovation. At the same time, we will utilise ADM's extensive experience in flavouring to help customers develop functional foods that also taste great, so as to provide consumers with high-quality, safe and nutritional choices.”

As consumer health awareness grows, and the market continues to mature, China's probiotics industry is expected to usher in greater development opportunities. With its deep scientific research strength, global resource advantages and local innovation capabilities, ADM expects to see continuous industry innovation and contributions to the health-focused consumer lifestyle.

"We will use science and innovation to drive market development, as well as our global resources to provide customers with differentiated and high-quality products and services, so as to promote the leapfrog development of China's health and nutrition industry,” said Ms. Hu.