India Soluble Fibre Market Analysis

Fibre is a carbohydrate that cannot be broken down into sugar molecules that the human body can't digest.

- Vijayendran M

It is an important part of the daily diet. Depending on their solubility, fibres are classified into two groups: soluble and insoluble fibre. Soluble fibre dissolves in water and forms a gel-like substance and swells, when mixed with water. It provides health benefits such as lowering blood cholesterol, regulating blood glucose levels, promotes weight loss and healthy bowel movements. Insoluble fibre does not dissolve in water and goes through the stomach without breakdown. It helps in improving intestinal health, reducing the risk of constipation and aids in weight loss

WHY DO INDIANS NEED SOLUBLE FIBRE?

Two-thirds of the Indian population suffer from digestive disorders such as constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease. Indians are prone to digestive disorders because of the constant exposure to harmful pathogens and the consumption of foods with spices (should we consider a sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise, instead?). Soluble fibre ingredients act as prebiotic ingredients, which stimulate the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria, aids in digestion, improving gut health. It also helps in lowering fat absorption and managing weight.

FructoOligoSaccharide (FOS) is increasingly used as a bulking agent. The caloric reduction can be achieved by replacing the usual sweetener with FOS. Inulin and FOS act as prebiotics that stimulates the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria, aid digestion and improves gut health as well as leading to caloric reduction. Psyllium husk powder is used in food and pharma applications to reduce the risk of constipation. Polydextrose and resistant starch/maltodextrin are used in snacks, ice cream and other food applications for their functional benefits such as low fat, low GI properties. Konjac fibre used in dietary supplements products

KEY PLAYERS IN THE INDIAN MARKET