Expo West 2026: Gut Health, Weight Management, and the Rise of Multifunctional Ingredients
Anaheim, California – Natural Products Expo West 2026 (March 3–6) showcased a significant focus on gut health, weight management, and women’s health, alongside a demand for nutrient-dense formulations. Innovation at the trade show centered around protein-forward concepts, combinations of probiotics and postbiotics, and ingredients supported by clinical research.
The Growing Demand for Novel Delivery Formats
Driven by “pill fatigue,” consumers are seeking more palatable and experiential supplement formats. John Quilter, CEO of Saanroo, noted an emerging trend toward liquid systems like shots and gels, positioning supplements as closer to food and beverages. This shift is particularly pronounced among younger consumers entering the health and wellness category.
GLP-1 Medications and Nutritional Support
The increasing use of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medications is significantly impacting consumer purchasing habits. Katy Kinsella, business development director at Kerry, highlighted that approximately 22% of US households now have at least one person using a GLP-1 medication. This trend is expected to be “transformational” in how consumers approach grocery shopping, emphasizing the need for nutrient-dense foods.
Kerry’s BC30 probiotic is gaining attention for its ability to support digestion and enhance protein absorption, addressing common gastrointestinal side effects experienced by GLP-1 users and supporting adequate protein intake – a crucial nutrient for this population. A real-life study involving 253 GLP-1 users demonstrated BC30’s effectiveness in alleviating gastric discomfort and improving quality of life, with participants expressing a willingness to recommend it to others.
Multifunctional Ingredients and Clinically Backed Benefits
Consumers are prioritizing ingredients with multiple health benefits and clinically proven efficacy. Vaughn DuBow, senior director of marketing, North America Health & Wellness at ADM, emphasized the importance of clinically backed ingredients, as consumers trust those the most. For GLP-1 users, ingredients that maximize nutrient density are particularly valuable, given potentially reduced food intake.
Kerry’s Plenibiotic, a postbiotic, was also highlighted for its benefits in digestive support and skin health.
The Role of AI in Ingredient Research
Matts Johansen, CEO of Aker BioMarine, anticipates that artificial intelligence (AI) will increasingly influence ingredient research and nutraceuticals. He suggests that AI will empower consumers to access and interpret scientific papers directly, shifting the focus of research toward more impactful studies with larger doses and specific populations.
Protein and Biotics: A Synergistic Approach
FrieslandCampina Ingredients presented protein-forward concepts, including a Dubai chocolate-inspired crispy protein bar and high-protein vanilla café latte, recognizing that consumers seek products delivering multiple benefits. Lifeway featured a high-protein probiotic smoothie with collagen, utilizing kefir cultures.
The company’s Fermentis concept, combining prebiotics, probiotics, and protein, aims to nourish the gut-muscle axis and address digestive issues associated with GLP-1 therapies. Research with 150 recreational athletes demonstrated that Fermentis consumption led to self-reported improvements in energy levels, digestive health, and mood.
Simplifying Reformulation and Enhancing Bioavailability
ADM is focused on simplifying reformulation efforts, prioritizing reduced sugar, sodium, and fat content while increasing protein and fiber. The company also highlighted the potential of postbiotics, which can be more easily incorporated into various food formats compared to probiotics.
Saanroo featured Trpti for metabolic health and Bioberb, a more bioavailable form of berberine, utilizing the LipiSperse delivery system to enhance absorption and expand application possibilities.
Beyond Omega-3s: Aker BioMarine’s Expanding Portfolio
Aker BioMarine is expanding beyond its traditional omega-3 offerings, introducing ingredients like Lysoveta for brain health and exploring innovative ways to incorporate marine-based ingredients into functional food formats.