Close to 182,000 products were introduced globally in 2006. Key growth areas were mind, body and general good health.
Almost 105,000 food and drink products were launched, and more than 77,000 non-food products. Product launches were up 17 per cent on 2005.
Mintel custom solutions director David Jago said: 'The significant shift to more products with a 'better for you' positioning helped boost product launches in 2006. Companies are offering more products that enhance wellbeing for consumers.'
However, the low-carb trend proved to be just a passing fad. The category posted only 500 global launches for 2006 - less than half the number in 2005 and only 15 per cent of the launches during its peak in 2004.
By contrast, sales of products with reduced fat, calories, sugar or cholesterol content rose sharply. Low or no fat products more than doubled since 2005, up nearly 120 per cent.
Gluten-free product launches experienced an 86 per cent jump, with strong growth in North America, Europe and Latin America. Companies placed greater emphasis on allergen-free foods, which have seen a greater growth in mainstream retailers.
Food and drink products with an ethical focus - which include ingredients linked to fair trade or sustainability - nearly doubled last year and are forecast to escalate further in 2007.
Organic products were also been a rising star and will continue to grow in 2007.
In 2006, superfoods greatly impacted mainstream product launches. Pomegranate was a high-flyer, especially in drinks and companies are now looking for the star of 2007.
Mintel predicted the fruit of the future could be açaí - an antioxidant-rich berry.
Mintel custom solutions Lynn Dornblaser director said: 'Açaí lends itself well to premium, indulgence positioning, offering all of the health benefits of other superfood ingredients. It has a strong exotic appeal, bolstered by its Amazonian origination. We really see the fruit as the one to watch for ingredient sourcing in the future.'
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