Though the term is still fairly new to the nutraceutical industry, the definition of a “superfood” continues to vary depending on who you ask. Before we get into those definitions and all the health benefits superfoods have to offer, know that the global superfood market was valued at over $4 billion in 2019 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.4% from 2020-2027, which could mean big business for you, if partnered with the right supplement manufacturing partner.
Professional Opinions on What is a Superfood
According to Registered Dietician Beth Czerwony, RD, “superfoods help promote health by increasing your immune function and decreasing your chance of disease prevention or progression.” Manager of Stay Healthy! Marge Roman considers superfoods to be a nutrient-dense food or herb that is not commonly used in the everyday diet. Chief Science Officer at Vibrant Health Matt Marturano tells Vitamin Retailer “I like to think of superfoods as the top 1 percent of all foods with proven health benefits. However, since we are constantly learning about the new health benefits of foods, the standard to meet this definition continuously increases.” Marketing Manager of Betsy’s Health Foods Ramona Billingslea also shares with Vitamin Retailer, “I used to think of a superfood as something people might be likely to consume as a food but that also had a wide variety of benefits, especially antioxidant support. Today, I probably would include some herbs that aren’t usually on the menu but that offer the nutrient density of whole foods.”
The concept of superfoods certainly has different meanings to industry experts, and is constantly growing, but they are often rich in:
- Vitamins
- Minerals
- Antioxidants
- Fiber
- Healthy fats
- Flavonoids
Superfood Ingredients
While it is highly recommended that people obtain the majority of their nutrients through whole foods like avocado, berries, beets, salmon, and dark leafy greens, there are certainly nutrient-dense ingredients consumers don’t typically get from their regular diet. Here are some of them:
Moringa Lead Powder
Most commonly manufactured in powder form, moringa leaf provides a quality source of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that promotes immune system function and collagen production. Many vitamin and supplement brands also market moringa for its weight management feature, as it is believed to reduce inflammation, regulate blood sugar levels, and support fat breakdown. That said, moringa cannot make for an overall healthy body if not combined with a well-balanced diet, physical activity, and restful sleep.
Spirulina Powder
A type of blue-green algae, spirulina may just be one of the world’s most nutrient-dense foods on earth. It’s true! With 4 grams of protein in just a single tablespoon, spirulina powder offers powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory traits that can help deter the body from chronic illness. It can also help consumers who experience allergic rhinitis and may assist those looking for improved muscle strength and endurance.
Milk Thistle Seed Extract
An herbal remedy originating from the milk thistle plant, also known as Silybum marianum, milk thistle extract has been used for gallbladder disorders, liver protection, bone support, and cognitive function. While more research is underway, many dietary supplement formulators incorporate this ingredient into their products to promote brain health, thereby offering it as a nootropic. Milk thistle can be marketed towards consumers seeking more concentration during their workday, aging adults who find it difficult to focus at times, and people who would like to better handle stressful situations.
Ginkgo Leaf Extract
This often-touted ingredient used in so many supplements, ginkgo biloba derives from an ancient tree species and the oldest identifiable plant families on the planet with leaves found in prehistoric rock dating back to the Permian period over 250 million years ago. This ingredient is nutrient dense and most often used for better cognitive function, appealing to older folks and those with neurodegenerative diseases.
Lactobacillus bulgaricus
A beneficial type of bacteria found in the digestive tract, Lactobacillus is referred to as gut flora or microbes. When consumed in supplement form, it is referred to as a probiotic. Lactobacillus bulgaricus is one of the many important probiotics you can include in your superfood formula that may help balance gut flora and keep intestinal walls strong while keeping bad bacteria at bay. Gut health affects every other part of the body, making lactobacillus a very significant ingredient in superfood products.
Range in Superfoods, Range in Manufacturing
With a range in benefits, it is no wonder that the superfood market is climbing. Consumers are shifting to more functional foods and the incorporation of supplements and vitamins filled with the nutrient density they don’t necessary get through everyday diet. Be it a custom private label product or white label order, Makers Nutrition is fully equipped to manufacture superfoods in compliance with FDA regulations and GMP guidelines. Whether you choose custom or white label will depend on your current standing in the dietary supplement industry, and your business strategy plan.
Custom Superfood Formulation
If you are a private label brand owner looking to introduce a higher-quality superfood than your last because you previously partnered with a subpar service provider, then it is time for you to put your business in the right hands. We work with virtually all ingredients you would like manufactured into safe, health benefitting supplements.
White Label Formulas for your Private Label Brand
No stranger to superfoods, Makers Nutrition manufactures and delivers all types of superfood supplements, and stock superfood formulas for you to offer through your private label brand. Should you wish to start out smaller and do a test run with our formula and intend to manufacture a nutrient-dense supplement, then sample our NEW Green Superfood Pectin Gumdrop Gummies. They support energy and healthy immune system function. If you would also like to offer superfoods in the form of powder, then check out our Reds and Greens. These deliciously flavored blends mix perfectly with your customers’ favorite non-citrus juice, water, smoothie, or protein shake, while providing all the benefits without genetically modified ingredients.
Sources
- Gormley, James J. “Superfoods—A New Generation of Superhero Nutrients.” Vitamin Retailer, Feb. 2022, pp. 29-34.
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/303079
- https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/all-about-moringa-drumstick-tree-a-complete-scientific-guide/
- https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-is-a-superfood/
- https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/superfood-powders-market
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-spirulina
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/milk-thistle-benefits
- https://www.superfoodevolution.com/ginkgo-biloba-benefits.html
- https://www.healthline.com/health/digestive-health/lactobacillus-bulgaricus