Mintel Predicts 2004 Trends

CHICAGOMintels Global NewProducts Database predicts pomegranate will be the Ingredient of the Year for2004, and the amount and variety of products containing pomegranate extract orjuice will increase, according to Mintel (www.mintel.com);lemongrass was ranked as runner-up. A rise in beauty-targeted supplements(cosmeceuticals) was also predicted; these products provide beauty benefits fromthe inside out, such as glossier hair. According to Mintel, adding nutritionallyvaluable ingredients (such as fructooligosaccharides, inulin and probioticfiber) to foods will grow, and food labels will start to address dietaryconcernssuch as diabetes (low glycemic index claims), Celiac disease (glutenfree claims) and carb-conscious diets (low net carb claims), according toMintel.