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Today, consumers are bombarded with a multitude of nutritional messages, some of which are contradictory. Yet there is a consensus: fibre is essential to a balanced diet, and global intake remains insufficient.
Recent studies confirm its key role in the prevention of many chronic diseases, thereby reinforcing its place in public health recommendations.
And yet, a paradox remains: fibre is widely present in our food system… but insufficiently so on our plates.
In light of this, the food industry is undergoing a major transformation. Raw materials once considered waste : derived from cereals, fruit or oilseeds, are now being repurposed.
These by-products, naturally rich in fibre and nutrients, are now being reintroduced into the human diet through so-called ‘upcycling’ approaches.
This trend addresses a twofold challenge:
– nutritional, by helping to bridge the fibre gap
– environmental, by reducing waste and promoting a more circular economy
For manufacturers, this also translates into less resource-intensive processes and a reduced carbon footprint.
At the same time, there is a shift taking place in the way products are formulated.
Rather than isolating specific nutrients (such as highly refined proteins), manufacturers are moving towards less processed, more wholesome ingredients that retain their original nutritional value: fibre, protein and other beneficial compounds.
This approach meets growing consumer expectations regarding:
– naturalness
– transparency
– simplicity of ingredient lists
It also opens up new opportunities in categories such as bakery products, snacks, cereals and plant-based alternatives.
When developing high-fibre or upcycled products, the challenge is clear:
“to turn a health benefit into a genuine sensory pleasure”
Flavorings play a decisive role in:
– masking any undesirable notes associated with plant-based or upcycled ingredients
– enhancing natural flavour profiles
– maintaining a gourmet dimension, even in healthier formulations
Beyond taste, the interaction between flavor and texture perception is also key to balancing products and improving their acceptability.
Sources : « Upcycled Industry: Getting More Out of Keeping Fiber In – Global 2026 », Innova Market Insights
