Why is Inulin/FOS being added to probiotic supplements and yogurt?
A key principle in today’s marketplace is product differentiation. If a manufacturer can sell many different kinds of “specialty” products, that are in essence the same thing, it can make a larger profit. Think about it for a moment. We no longer have plain old toothpaste, instead we have such items as tartar control, sensitive, baking soda, peroxide, whitening, gum care, and many others. Adding a new claim to an old product adds to consumer excitement: “Brand X yogurt – now with Inulin/FOS for your health” & “We now offer lactobacillus capsules with Inulin/FOS.” These new claims will help fight market stagnation and lead to greater profits for the manufacturer. But will FOS lead to greater health for the consumer?