Imagine sipping a soda that supports your immune system or a protein bar that lowers stress. That’s not science fiction – it’s nutraceuticals. And they’re already in your grocery store.
HISTORY / ORIGIN
The term “nutraceutical” was coined in 1989 by Dr. Stephen DeFelice, combining “nutrition” and “pharmaceutical.” But the idea is ancient. Traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda used turmeric, ginger, and ashwagandha in foods and drinks for healing. The modern boom began in the 1990s when scientific research confirmed that certain food ingredients could prevent or manage diseases. By the 2000s, big beverage companies added vitamins, minerals, and plant extracts to everything from water to energy drinks. Today, the global nutraceutical ingredients market is worth hundreds of billions – and food and beverages are the fastest‑growing category.
TYPES OF FOOD & BEVERAGE NUTRACEUTICAL INGREDIENTS
Probiotics & Prebiotics – Live beneficial bacteria (probiotics) and their food source (prebiotics). Found in…
