Top Microbiome Market Trends Identified by ADM

ADM has unveiled the top trends expected to shape the global human microbiome market, which is predicted to reach USD9.1bn by 2026.

The main findings of the extended research are:

1. Growing consumer awareness of the gut-brain connection and the link between microbiome function with mood and cognition. ADM’s Outside Voice and FMCG Gurus, a market research company, partnered on research that found 58% of global consumers said they are aware of the potential benefits that bacteria in the digestive tract may have on health and well-being. Another FMCG Gurus study showed 53% said products designed to support brain health are appealing.
2. Personalized nutrition solutions designed to support everyday performance for Olympians and weekend warriors alike. The microbiome has become the new frontier for the next generation of personalized nutrition, according to ADM. Protein bars and ready-to-drink shakes soon will be tailored to support each individual’s specific activity and lifestyle needs.
3. Consumers using test kits to benchmark the make-up of their microbiome as the personalized nutrition phenomenon gains hold. New technology in personalized assessment is allowing consumers to accomplish this. Fifty-nine percent of global consumers said they found the idea of nutrition-focused genetic testing appealing, according to FMCG Gurus. Among the 59%, 64% said they would be willing to use this technology.
4. Many consumers believe the potential benefits of probiotics extend well beyond the gut – with some
   looking to probiotics to support their skin microbiome. Research is just beginning to catch up with the role the gut microbiome plays in skin health. ADM has a number of clinical trials researching the role of the gut microbiome in skin health that will assist the company in developing probiotic formulations that provide adjuvant support for the skin.
5. Support for immune function remains top of mind among health-conscious consumers. New insights into the gut microbiome underlie the potential for proactive solutions on this front – like supplements that increase the diversity of microbiota in our guts. Research from FMCG Gurus showed 75% of global consumers said they will make greater attempts to stay healthier due to COVID-19, and 65% said they were more conscious of their immune health.