The Beneo Programme: The importance of functional food containing inulin and oligofructose and the communication of the related scientific background to the consumer

Abstract

The growing demand for low energy and high nutrient functional foods has led to the spreading use of inulin and oligofructose. These
ingredients are natural and have very promising properties both from a technical and nutritional point of view. The general problem
in Food Industry is to forward the message of the Scientific Researches to the consumers in a simple and clear way. The Beneoâ„¢program
is a joint effort between leading food manufacturers and Belgian Orafti S.A. to communicate the beneficial effects of Beneoâ„¢
inulin and oligofructose as Fibre effect, Prebiotic effect and Increased Ca absorption to the consumers. Orafti as the producer of the
functional ingredients provides its industrial partners with a scientific and marketing background that can promote efficient and accurate
communication concerning the benefits of their end products. The patricipation in the program does not require financial support
on the manufacturer’s side, so it can be a great opportunity for the small manufacturers as well. The Beneoâ„¢ Program is based
on scientific credibility, verified claim–product relation and continuous feedback from the market. The Beneoâ„¢ program is an everevolving
communication program, which targets scientists, dieticians (prescribers) and consumers as it is understood on different levels
by each of these. To scientists Beneoâ„¢ is a much-researched ingredient, which boasts both technological and nutritional benefits.
Prescribers recognise Beneoâ„¢as a prebiotic with proven health benefits but to consumers Beneoâ„¢is a health ‘Seal of Approval’. The
label brings reassurance and knowledge that a food product is making substantiated health claims.