Beyond Protein: Prebiotics Drive Next Wave of Functional Food Innovation

NEW YORK, NY – November 19, 2025

The Fiber Frontier: Shifting Consumer Focus

The functional food market is undergoing a significant evolution, moving beyond a singular focus on protein to recognize the crucial role of gut health and fiber intake. A new report from prebiotic fiber manufacturer COMET highlights this shift, forecasting a surge in demand for prebiotic-enriched foods and beverages. While protein remains important, a growing body of evidence reveals a widespread “fiber gap” in Western diets, and consumers are increasingly seeking ways to address it. Experts suggest this presents a major opportunity for food manufacturers to innovate and appeal to health-conscious consumers.

“We’ve seen a clear trend towards consumers understanding the link between gut health and overall well-being,” says one industry analyst. “For years, protein was the buzzword. Now, consumers are actively seeking out foods that support a healthy microbiome, and that’s driving demand for ingredients like prebiotics.”

Prebiotic Blends and the Rise of 'Stealth Health'

COMET’s report predicts a move away from single-source prebiotics towards customized blends, designed to maximize efficacy and address specific health needs. This reflects a growing understanding of the complexity of the gut microbiome and the importance of fostering a diverse and balanced microbial ecosystem. Beyond supplements, prebiotics are increasingly being incorporated into everyday foods, a trend dubbed “stealth health” by industry insiders.

“Consumers aren’t necessarily looking for products explicitly labeled as ‘prebiotic,’” explains a food scientist specializing in functional ingredients. “They want to enjoy their favorite foods – baked goods, snacks, beverages – and have those foods contribute to their health. That’s where the opportunity lies – seamlessly integrating prebiotics into existing product formulations.”

This trend is being facilitated by advancements in food technology, allowing manufacturers to incorporate prebiotic fibers into a wider range of food matrices without compromising taste or texture. Companies like COMET are developing versatile ingredients, such as its Arrabina® line derived from upcycled wheat straw, specifically designed for this purpose. According to COMET, Arrabina's low effective dose and superior solubility make it a viable option for various food and beverage products.

Gut-Brain Axis: Prebiotics Targeting Mood and Cognition

A particularly exciting area of growth is the integration of prebiotics into products targeting mood, cognitive function, and mental well-being. This is driven by increasing scientific evidence supporting the gut-brain axis – the bidirectional communication network between the gut microbiome and the brain. Research suggests that modulating the gut microbiome with prebiotics can influence brain function, mood regulation, and cognitive performance.

“The connection between gut health and mental well-being is becoming increasingly clear,” says a neuroscientist specializing in the gut-brain axis. “Prebiotics can influence the production of neurotransmitters, reduce inflammation, and improve brain plasticity, potentially leading to improvements in mood, anxiety, and cognitive function.”

COMET’s report highlights a 178% increase in products combining prebiotics with ingredients targeting mood and cognitive health over the last five years. This reflects a growing consumer interest in holistic approaches to well-being and a demand for products that address both physical and mental health. Companies are increasingly exploring combinations of prebiotics with ingredients such as nootropics, probiotics, and postbiotics to create synergistic effects.

Market Growth & Innovation: A Promising Outlook

The global prebiotic ingredient market is experiencing substantial growth, fueled by rising consumer awareness of gut health and the increasing demand for functional foods. Market research indicates that the market, valued at approximately $7.69 billion in 2025, is projected to reach between $12.38 billion by 2030 and $14.72 billion by 2035. This growth is driven by increasing applications in functional food and beverages, as well as a growing number of scientific studies supporting the health benefits of prebiotics.

Several major players, including Beneo, ADM, and DuPont, are investing heavily in prebiotic ingredient research and development, as well as expanding their production capacity to meet growing demand. Startups are also entering the market, often focusing on innovative prebiotic ingredients and applications. Investment in the microbiome space has been strong, with companies raising significant capital to support research and development and commercialization efforts.

While COMET’s ‘Gut Health Index’ is a proprietary tool, it reflects the company's commitment to identifying emerging trends and driving innovation in the prebiotic space. The company's focus on sustainable sourcing and upcycled ingredients, such as its Arrabina® line derived from wheat straw, aligns with growing consumer demand for environmentally friendly products. The company's certifications, including Upcycled Certified™ and NutraStrong™ Prebiotic Verified, demonstrate its commitment to quality and transparency.

The combined force of heightened consumer awareness, scientific breakthroughs and innovative technologies has created a ripe environment for further growth and expansion within the prebiotic and functional food markets.