We get calls and emails every day from people who are planning a new food business venture, and we are always happy to share our experience and product ideas with them.  Starting a new business isn't always easy, and to be successful you need to be aware of some of the do's and don'ts so you can include these in your planning.  Whilst you may love what you do, ultimately you also need to make money so you can pay the bills.

Do:

1.  Do your research on the market.  What is selling well in your area?  Is there a gap in the market and if so, is there a reason no one else is selling this type of product?  What can you offer that will get people excited, that hopefully they can't get anywhere else?

2.  Do your research on the business site. Who are your likely customers (age, culture, spending power are all factors)? Is there easy walking access and lots of foot traffic, or other attractions close by that will bring people in?  Does the site feel welcoming and will it work for the amount of people you hope to cater for?

3.  Do your research on the costings.  This will make or break your business so do your budgets carefully and include everything you are likely to spend to bring your product to the market.  How can you value add to products to create a 'good deal' for customers?

4.  Do your research on the products. This is the fun part!  Shop around for ideas and pricing.  Look at what your competitors are doing, check their menus online and sample their products.  Talk to suppliers as they see what is happening in the market and can give you some good tips and product advice (for example, see our blog for information about choosing an ice cream machine).  Pay for some quality samples and trial them with your family and friends.

Don't:

1.  Don't just buy the cheapest products on offer.  One bad customer experience will lose you sales, but good customer experiences give you free word-of-mouth or social media advertising, and repeat business.  For example a good quality soft serve like our Goldenfarm Luxury mix is smooth and will always taste fantastic.  It can be used to create other products (e.g. thick shakes, slushies), whereas cheaper versions will have questionable flavour, come out icy, and be generally disappointing.

2.  Don't rely on your own tastes. What you love may not be what your customers love.  We find that Asian style eateries order the Matcha and Milk flavoured soft serve mixes , on the other hand Sports Clubs or burger bars' customers may prefer the Goldenfarm Luxury Vanilla, Salted Caramel and frozen yoghurt varieties. 

3.  Don't be afraid to be flexible with your menu.  Experiment a little to find out what works for your customers.  Try a weekly special to test products out, offer free samples, or do some great family celebration deals to introduce new flavours and ideas to the market.

4.   Don't just cater to a vocal minority.  Just because it seems something is in demand doesn't mean it actually has a large customer following.  Sometimes this is the case with matcha or vegan soft serve products, depending on the location - although some customers may quite rightly love these, by using the only barrel of your ice cream machine for a different tasting product you may be missing out on sales of other things.  Consider offering what you will sell the most of, and cater for special requirements in a more nuanced way.  It all depends on your customer base and location as to what those products will be.

In short, take your time to undertake quality product and market research, and understand your both your customers and your budget constraints.  And give us a call!, we are always happy to help you on your journey.

Have you ever noticed how the most health conscious gym enthusiast will still reach for a smoothie or  tasty thickshake when the opportunity arises? The human affinity for sweet tastes is a universal phenomenon; it goes beyond cultural, geographical, and historical boundaries. From fresh fruit to decadent desserts, the allure of sweetness has a huge impact on our dietary preferences. We don't seem to be able to fight it, so what are the factors that contribute to our innate attraction to sweet flavours?

Biological Roots:  At its core, our preference for sweetness can be traced back to our evolutionary past. In earlier times, the ability to discern sweet tastes was crucial for survival. Sweetness often signaled the presence of ripe, energy-rich fruits, a valuable source of calories in an environment where food scarcity was a constant threat. Human taste buds evolved to detect sweetness as a means of identifying these nutritious and easily digestible sources of energy.

The association between sweet tastes and safety likely played a role in our biological predisposition. Bitterness, a common indicator of toxicity in nature, would discourage us from eating potentially harmful substances. In contrast, sweetness became synonymous with safety, leading to an inbuilt preference for foods with this flavor profile.

Psychological Pleasure: Beyond the biological, the allure of sweet tastes is deeply rooted in the psychology of pleasure and reward. Eating sweet foods triggers the release of substances such as dopamine in the brain's reward center.  This creates a sense of pleasure and satisfaction. This response reinforces the desire for sweet tastes, creating a positive feedback loop that encourages repeated consumption.

The comfort and nostalgia associated with sweet flavours also contribute to their appeal. Many of our earliest and fondest memories are often linked with sweet treats, from birthday cakes to holiday ice cream - sitting on the beach with a melting soft serve cone and the sound of the waves. These positive associations create an emotional connection to such tastes, making them a source of comfort and joy throughout our lives.

Cultural Influences: The preference is not solely a product of biology and psychology; it is also shaped by cultural influences. Cultural practices, traditions, and norms play a big role in what is considered desirable in terms of taste. For example, some cultures may prioritize the sweetness of desserts as a symbol of celebration and indulgence, while others may favour more savoury or spicy profiles.

The globalisation of food culture has also contributed to the widespread appreciation of sweet tastes. As different cuisines  influence one another, the availability of a wide range of sweet delicacies from various traditions has widened our dessert experience.

Summing up, our inherent attraction to sweet tastes is a phenomenon with roots in our evolutionary history, psychological wiring, and cultural experiences. The biological need for energy-rich foods, coupled with the pleasure-inducing properties of sweetness, creates a powerful leaning towards these flavors. As we navigate the interplay of biology, psychology, and culture, our love for sweet tastes continues to shape our culinary choices. .Understanding the various dimensions of this phenomenon not only sheds light on our dietary preferences but also provides opportunities to deliver a meaningful food experience for customers.  What are the local preferences where you live, and how can you offer a positive and rewarding food adventure that caters for this? 

That's where we come in - we can help you with fresh ideas, how to discover the latest trends, and provide new twists on well-loved products.  Get in touch to see how we can help you kick off the New Year in style.  Sweet!

The increasing popularity of frozen yoghurt over the past year or so represents a significant shift in the dessert industry that  is currently having a positive impact on small business as they seek to deliver a better range of offerings post Covid. This trend embraces the growing perception of frozen yogurt by the general public as a healthier and more customisable alternative to traditional ice cream.  But sometimes food simply becomes fashionable anyway, and it seems it's frozen yoghurt's time to shine. So what are some factors that may be contributing to this?

• A Healthier Dessert Choice: Frozen yogurt is seen as a healthier dessert option compared to traditional ice cream because it can often contain live probiotics, less fat, and fewer calories. This health-conscious trend has driven consumers to seek out frozen yogurt shops as a guilt-free indulgence.

 

• Customisation and Variety: One of the key features of the frozen yogurt revolution is the self-serve model. Customers can choose their yogurt flavors and toppings, allowing for a highly customisable dessert experience. This emphasis on personalisation has attracted a more diverse customer base, ensuring a steady stream of patrons.

 

• Entrepreneurial Opportunities: The rise of frozen yogurt as a popular dessert has created entrepreneurial opportunities for small business owners. Opening a frozen yogurt shop is often less expensive than launching other types of food businesses, making it an accessible option for individuals looking to start their own ventures.  Obtaining a soft-serve machine is probably the biggest outlay, but there are some very good options available on in the market at the moment. The next biggest item is your mix - get the best one that you can and don't settle for a cheap imitation.  Not all frozen yoghurt mixes are equal and your customers can tell the difference.  That's why our range is so highly regarded.

 

• Local and Community Focus: We know that many of our customers, particularly small, locally-owned ones, have a strong connection with their communities. They often source ingredients locally, participate in community events, and create a welcoming atmosphere. This sense of community involvement can help small business owners build loyal customer bases.

 

• Positive Impact on Nearby Businesses: The presence of a popular food outlet can also benefit other businesses in the area. For example, yogurt shops often attract foot traffic, benefiting nearby stores, cafes, and restaurants. This can lead to increased revenue for other small businesses in the vicinity, and create a vibrant and attractive locality.

 

• Franchising Opportunities: Many successful frozen yogurt brands have developed franchising models, allowing small business owners to join a recognized and established brand. This reduces the risk associated with starting a new business from scratch and provides support in terms of marketing, operations, and supply chain.  There are several notable frozen yoghurt franchises that have started operating in the past few years, and their popularity has created a chain reaction of new and existing businesses wishing to jump on the band wagon.
  
  

We can see the effects the resurgence of frozen yoghurt has had on small business owners.  It offers them the opportunity to enter a growing market, connect with their local communities, and provide a healthier and more customisable dessert option. This trend has not only created entrepreneurial opportunities but also stimulated economic growth and job creation in various communities. Small business owners who enter the frozen yogurt industry have the potential to enjoy both personal and financial rewards while contributing to a more vibrant, creative and healthy dessert landscape. For more information on our leading frozen yoghurt mixes, and how to present a world-beating menu to your customers contact us.

Ice cream flavours can vary widely from one culture to another, reflecting the unique tastes, ingredients, and culinary traditions of each country and region. It's important to understand the preferences of your market so you can offer what your customers will enjoy. What works in one place may not be well received in another.  However, a little experimentation is a good thing as well.  Here's a run down on some of the more popular flavours you might come across on your travels.

1. United States: 
    1.   Vanilla: Vanilla is a classic American favorite and often serves as a base for various toppings and mix-ins.
    2.  Chocolate: Chocolate-flavored ice cream is also very popular, and it's commonly used in desserts like sundaes and milkshakes.
     3.  Rocky Road: A uniquely American flavor that typically includes chocolate ice cream, marshmallows, and nuts.
   
2. Italy:
     1.   Gelato: Italy is famous for gelato, a dense and creamy ice cream with intense flavors. Common flavors include pistachio, stracciatella (chocolate chip), and tiramisu.
   
   
3. Japan:
      1.  Mochi Ice Cream: Mochi, a chewy rice cake, is often wrapped around ice cream in Japan. Popular flavors include green tea (matcha) and red bean.
      2.  Hokkaido Milk  Flavour:  Traditionally made with milk from the north of Japan, this ice cream has a rich milky flavour.
     3. Sakkura (cherry blossom):  A light and fragrant cherry flavour that echoes the Sakkura flower festivals that are so popular in spring time.
   
   
4. India:
      1.  Kulfi: A traditional Indian ice cream made with reduced milk and flavored with cardamom, saffron, and nuts.
      2.  Mango: India is famous for its delicious mangoes, and mango-flavored ice cream is a beloved treat.
   
   
5. Thailand:
      1.  Thai Rolled Ice Cream: Ice cream is spread thin on a cold surface and then rolled into delicate scrolls. Unique toppings and flavors like Thai tea and lychee are common.
   
   
6. Mexico:
      1.   Paletas: These are popsicle-like treats made from fresh fruit, water, or dairy. Unique flavors include tamarind, chili, and cucumber with chili.
   
   
7. Turkey:
      1.  Dondurma: Turkish ice cream is known for its stretchy and chewy texture, often achieved using mastic or salep. It comes in flavors like sahlep, rosewater, and pistachio.
   
   
8. France:
      1.  Sorbet: France is renowned for its fruit-based sorbets, which are dairy-free and come in a variety of flavors like raspberry, lemon, and passion fruit.
      2.    Crème Glacée: Traditional French ice cream, which includes flavors like lavender and lavender honey.
   
   
9. South Korea:
      1.   Bingsu: While not traditional ice cream, bingsu is a popular Korean dessert made with shaved ice and various toppings like sweet red beans, fruit, and condensed milk.
   
   
10. Middle East:
       1.   Rosewater and Saffron: These flavors are common in Middle Eastern ice creams, often served with pistachios or dates.
    
    
11. China:
       1.  Red Bean: Red bean paste is a common ice cream flavor in China, often found in ice cream bars or stuffed in mochi wrappers.
       2.   Black Sesame:  This has a light, nutty taste, with a slight sweetness from the sugar in the ice cream.
    
    
12. Argentina:
       1.   Dulce de Leche: This sweet caramel-like flavor is extremely popular in Argentina, and it's often used in ice cream.
    
    

These are just a few examples of the many wonderful ice cream flavors enjoyed around the world. Add them to your bucket list and see how many you can tick off!

In times past eating out was a very special occasion in Western cultures.  They didn't have the traditions and history of street food in the way that Asian countries do, and so inexpensive dining wasn't an option.  When it was time to take the family for a treat it was generally snack or dessert products like a generous helping of soft serve that did the trick.  Over time though it seems there has been a culture shift and the current generation are much more likely to use eating out as an excuse for any occasion.  So what are the drivers of this behaviour, and how can you be at the forefront of the food revolution?

1. Socializing: Dining out provides an opportunity to socialize with friends, family, or even meet new people. It allows us to connect with others, engage in conversations, and share experiences over a meal. Are your premises conducive to this activity?
2. Convenience: Eating out saves time and effort compared to cooking at home. With more people working full time it eliminates the need to plan and prepare a meal, do the grocery shopping, and clean up afterward.
3. Variety and exploration: Restaurants offer a wide range of cuisines and dishes that may not be readily available at home. Going out to eat allows us to explore different flavors, try new foods, and expand our culinary horizons, so bear this in mind on your menu.
4. Dining experience: Eating out can provide a unique dining experience, especially in restaurants with appealing ambiance, stylish decor, or scenic views. It offers a change of environment and a break from routine, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the meal.  What is your point of difference in this area?
5. Professional expertise: Restaurants often employ skilled chefs and culinary professionals who are trained in creating delicious and visually appealing dishes. But it doesn't have to be all professional - people appreciate  flavors, presentation, and attention to detail. Let loose your creative flair!
6. Special occasions and celebrations: Going out to eat is often associated with special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or milestones. Celebrating at a restaurant adds a sense of festivity and makes the occasion feel more special and memorable - what can you put in place to make an occasion that little bit more special?
7. Time for relaxation: Dining out provides an opportunity to relax and be served. It allows individuals to take a break from daily responsibilities, and focus on enjoying the dining experience. Does your decor allow for this, and maybe you need a few more comfy nooks.
   
   

Overall, the enjoyment of going out to eat stems from the social, culinary, convenience, and experiential aspects it offers, providing a break from routine/cleaning up, and a chance to indulge in delicious food. With this in mind it is important to offer a choice of both the new and the well-loved on your menu.  Eye-catching dessert items like loaded shakes, quality soft serve and frozen yoghurt ice cream topped with fresh fruit, and the opportunity to mix and match flavours are all ways you can tempt your customers to step in and linger. 

Above all be creative, your customers will vote by coming back for more.

Fruit crush syrups are a popular choice for those who want to enjoy a refreshing beverage or a dessert without the hassle of squeezing fresh fruit every time. These syrups are made by boiling fresh fruits with sugar and water to create a thick, sweet liquid that can be added to any product. In this blog post, we take a closer look at fruit crush syrups, their benefits, and some delicious ways to use them.

Benefits of Fruit Crush Syrups
One of the primary benefits of using fruit crush syrups is convenience. Instead of buying fresh fruit or sourcing canned goods every time you want to make a product, you can keep a bottle of syrup on hand and simply get creating. This is especially useful when certain fruits are out of season or not available in your area.
Fruit crush syrups are also versatile. They can be used in a variety of beverages, including cocktails, mocktails, lemonades, iced teas, and more. They add a burst of fruity flavor and sweetness to any drink or dessert, making them a favorite among people of all ages.
Another benefit of fruit crush syrups is their long shelf life. Because they are made with sugar, they can last for months in the refrigerator, allowing you to enjoy your favorite flavors even when the fruits are out of season.

Ways to Use Fruit Crush Syrups
Fruit crush syrups can be used in many different ways. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy them:

1. Cocktails - Fruit crush syrups make an excellent addition to cocktails. Add a splash of syrup to your favorite spirit, like vodka or gin, and mix with tonic water or soda for a refreshing and fruity cocktail.
2. Mocktails - For those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, fruit crush syrups can be added to lemonade, iced tea, or soda water for a sweet and flavourful mocktail.
3. Smoothies - Fruit crush syrups can also be used to sweeten and flavor smoothies. Add a tablespoon or two to your favorite smoothie recipe for an extra burst of fruitiness.
4. Desserts - Fruit crush syrups can be drizzled over ice cream or soft serve, pancakes, waffles, or even used as a topping for cheesecake or other desserts.
5. Marinades - Fruit crush syrups can be used as a marinade for meats, fish, or vegetables. The sweetness and fruitiness of the syrup can add depth and complexity to savory dishes.

Fruit crush syrups are a convenient, versatile, and delicious way to offer the flavours of your favorite fruits to your customers and friends. They can be used in a variety of beverages, desserts, and savoury dishes, making them a must-have in any kitchen. Whether you're making cocktails for a party or creating desserts for a hot summer's day, fruit crush syrups are sure to add a burst of flavor and sweetness to any recipe. So go ahead, grab a bottle of your favorite Wholefarm Fruit Crush syrup and get creative in the kitchen!

Flavours are a fundamental part of our daily lives, yet many people don't fully understand how we perceive them. From the sweetness of fruit to the bitterness of coffee, the complexity of flavour is a remarkable phenomenon that often goes unnoticed. In this blog post, we look at the science behind how we perceive flavours.

Flavour perception involves multiple senses, including taste, smell, and even touch. Taste receptors on our tongue allow us to perceive five primary tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami (savoury). However, the vast majority of flavour actually comes from our sense of smell. When we eat, odor molecules are released from the food and travel through our nasal cavity, where they interact with receptors in our olfactory system. This is why food can taste bland when we have a cold or congestion – our sense of smell is impaired.

In addition to taste and smell, the texture of food can also play a role in flavour perception. For example, the crunchiness of a potato chip or the creaminess of a soft serve ice cream can add to the overall flavour experience.

Interestingly, our perception of flavour is also influenced by a number of external factors, such as our past experiences, cultural background, and even the color of the food. Studies have shown that people are more likely to associate red foods with sweetness and yellow foods with sourness, regardless of their actual taste.

One of the most fascinating aspects of flavour perception is how our brain processes and interprets the sensory information it receives. The brain receives signals from taste receptors on the tongue, olfactory receptors in the nose, and even pain receptors in the mouth. These signals are then integrated and analyzed in the brain, which creates a subjective experience of flavor. This is why two people can taste the same food and have different perceptions of its flavour.

The brain also uses context and expectations to influence our perception of flavour. For example, if we are told that a particular food is spicy, we are more likely to perceive it as spicy, even if it is not particularly hot. Similarly, if we are presented with a food that looks unappetizing, we may perceive it as having a negative flavour even if it is actually delicious.

Finally, it is worth noting that our perception of flavour can change over time. This is particularly true for bitter flavours, which many people find unpleasant at first but can learn to enjoy over time. This is thought to be due to the fact that bitter flavours are often associated with potentially harmful substances, so our initial aversion is a protective mechanism. However, as we become more familiar with these flavours and associate them with safe foods, our brain may start to interpret them more positively.

In conclusion, the perception of flavour is a complex and fascinating phenomenon that involves multiple senses, external factors, and the brain's processing and interpretation of sensory information. By understanding how flavour perception works, we can better appreciate the incredible range and depth of flavours that we encounter in our daily lives.

Ice cream is one of the most popular desserts in the world, enjoyed by people of all ages and cultures. Whether you're in the mood for something sweet and creamy, fruity and refreshing, or bold and adventurous, there's an ice cream flavour out there that's sure to satisfy your cravings.Here are some of the most popular ice cream flavors available today:

Vanilla - Vanilla is one of the most classic and timeless ice cream flavours. It's simple yet delicious, with a creamy and slightly sweet flavour that pairs well with almost anything. You can enjoy it on its own, or mix it with other toppings and flavours to create a more complex dessert.  The best vanilla flavour comes from vanilla pods, but don't discount some of the artificial flavours as well - they can add a very interesting and refined note to the standard vanilla offering.

Chocolate - Chocolate is another classic ice cream flavour that's beloved by many. It's rich, indulgent, and perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth. You can enjoy it on its own, or mix it with other flavours like peanut butter, caramel, or mint for a more decadent dessert.

Strawberry - Strawberry ice cream is a popular choice for those who prefer a more fruity and refreshing flavour. When made with real strawberries, it has a sweet and slightly tart taste that's perfect for a hot summer day. You can also mix it with other flavors like chocolate or vanilla for a more complex dessert.

Mint Chocolate Chip - Mint chocolate chip is a unique and refreshing ice cream flavour that's perfect for those who want something a little different. It's made with a blend of mint and chocolate chips, giving it a cool and creamy flavour that's both sweet and refreshing. It's a great option for those who want something a little more adventurous than the classic flavours.

Rocky Road - Rocky road is a delicious ice cream flavour that's perfect for those who love chocolate and nuts. It's made with chocolate ice cream, marshmallows, and nuts like almonds or walnuts, giving it a crunchy and creamy texture that's both satisfying and indulgent.

Matcha - Matcha (or green tea) is an earthy yet delicate ice cream flavour that's perfect for those who love Asian-style cuisine. It's made with a milk base ice cream and matcha powder, , giving it a distinctive, slightly bitter taste that's typical of Japanese green tea.

Cookies and Cream - Cookies and cream is a classic ice cream flavor that's perfect for those who love cookies. It's made with vanilla ice cream and chunks of chocolate cookies, giving it a sweet and crunchy texture that's both satisfying and delicious.

Neapolitan - Neapolitan ice cream is a popular choice for those who want a little bit of everything. It's made with three different flavours of ice cream - vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry - all served in one container. This makes it a great option for those who can't decide on just one thing.

Ice cream is one of the most popular desserts in the world, and for good reason. There are so many different flavours available, each with their own unique taste and texture. Whether you prefer something sweet and classic like vanilla or chocolate, or something more adventurous like rocky road or matcha, there's an ice cream out there that's sure to satisfy your cravings. So next time you're in the mood for something sweet and indulgent, why not try a new ice cream flavour and see what all the fuss is about?

Soft serve ice cream is a popular treat all over the world, especially during the warmer months of the year. It is a deliciously creamy dessert that can be enjoyed alone or as a topping on other desserts like cakes, pies, and waffles. However, not all soft serve mixes are created equal. Goldenfarm is an internationally popular brand that has gained a reputation for its high-quality soft serve mix. In this blog post, we explore the features and benefits of Goldenfarm soft serve mix.
​
What is Goldenfarm soft serve mix?
Goldenfarm soft serve mix is a powdered mix that can be used to make deliciously creamy soft serve ice cream. It is made from high-quality ingredients, including milk powder, sugar, and stabilizers. The mix is available in various flavors, including vanilla, chocolate, latte, and green tea (matcha). The mix is versatile and can be used in soft serve machines or blended with other ingredients to create a range of desserts.

Features of Goldenfarm soft serve mix

1. High-quality ingredients: Goldenfarm soft serve mix is made from high-quality ingredients that are carefully selected to ensure a deliciously creamy texture and rich flavor. The milk powder used in the mix is sourced only from Australian and New Zealand suppliers to ensure consistent quality.
2. Easy to use: The mix is easy to use and can be prepared in minutes. Simply add water and mix in a soft serve machine or blender. The mix is designed to dissolve quickly, so there's no need for lengthy mixing or preparation time.
3. Versatile: Goldenfarm soft serve mix is versatile and can be used to create a range of desserts. It can be blended with fruits, cookies, and other ingredients to create delicious milkshakes, smoothies, and frappes.
   

Benefits of Goldenfarm soft serve mix

1. Cost-effective: Despite it's high quality Goldenfarm soft serve mix is cost-effective and can help businesses save money on their dessert menu. The mix is available in large quantities, which means it can be purchased in bulk at a lower cost.
2. Consistent quality: The mix is designed to produce consistent results every time. This means that businesses can rely on Goldenfarm soft serve mix to produce a consistently high-quality product that their customers will love.
3. Popular flavors: Goldenfarm soft serve mix is available in popular flavors, including vanilla, chocolate, and matcha. These flavors are loved by  everyone and can help businesses attract a wider range of customers.
4. Long shelf life: The mix has a long shelf life, which means businesses can purchase it in bulk and store it for later use. This can help reduce waste and save money in the long run.

To sum it all up, Goldenfarm soft serve mix is a high-quality product that can help businesses create deliciously creamy soft serve ice cream and a range of other desserts. It is cost-effective, easy to use, and produces consistent results every time. With its long shelf life and popular flavors, Goldenfarm soft serve mix is an excellent choice for any business looking to expand its dessert menu. Don't just take our word for it - try it for yourself!

With our modern, sedentary lifestyle, and easy access to fast food it's no wonder that lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure and some types of cancer are increasing as our population ages.  Computer based occupations mean we spend far more time sitting and reading than our fore-fathers used to, and it takes focus and determination to get out and exercise  after a day's work when we're feeling drained and tired.  The sofa beckons and a glass of wine is looking pretty good after a long commute and evening chores. 

Our bodies are finely tuned instruments, with our digestive systems leading the way in regulating and affecting our overall health and well being.  It is extremely important, therefore, that we are mindful of the effects that poor diet and eating habits have on the way we feel and perform.  We have all heard of the term 'super food', which basically means that a particular food has some real health benefits and/or some type of specialised nutritional value.  In practise, eating a balanced diet with a focus on fresh, non-processed ingredients is the original 'super food' and we shouldn't need anything extra unless we have health issues that call for additional supplementation.  The reality is though that we are often time poor, and trying to bring together all the fresh ingredients required to keep the balance right is time consuming and often downright exhausting. This is where a handful of true super foods really come into play, and inulin is one of these.

The True Super Food
Inulin is a type of dietary fibre that can be found in items like chicory, asparagus, onions, banana, garlic and wheat.  It is water soluable and can be used as fat alternative in items like mayonnaise and margarine.  It is also useful as a partial flour substitute.  The real benefit of inulin is that as it dissolves in the digestive tract it swells and creates a substance that  increases the feeling of fullness, and slows down the digestive process which gives your body more time to absorb important minerals and vitamins from your food (1).  This includes vital minerals such as calcium and iron, which are often lacking in older age groups and particularly in older women.  Lower levels of these contribute markedly to osteoporosis, anaemia, fatigue, lack of coordination, and other metabolic health conditions that are of real concern in aging populations.  Inulin has been clinically proven to reverse problems associated with lack of vitamin and mineral absorption, giving a new lease on life and well being (2).

Even More Good News
But wait there's more!  In addition to what is already an impressive resume, inulin is also instrumental in increasing the population of good bacteria in your gut which help to fight off pathogens (disease-causing bacteria), reduce infection and kick start your immune system.  It's an extremely powerful combination and one that deserves more publicity given the fact that we have been going through a pandemic over these past few years - a healthy immune system, particularly if we are in the over 50's category, should be a priority right now.

We have been long time supporters of inulin, having developed a suite of health drinks and tonics that have been market leaders in Asia for decades.  These include both dietary fibre in the form of inulin, pro-biotics containing several strains of beneficial bacteria, and colostrum which is well known for its immune boosting properties.  Our products are world beaters and can all be customised to suit your particular requirements. Whichever way you look at it, inulin deserves a place in the super food category - there is nothing better to provide true gut health and digestive wellbeing, without the expensive price tag of many nutritional supplements. 

1.Krupa-Kozak U, Swiątecka D, Bączek N, Brzóska MM. Inulin and fructooligosaccharide affect in vitro calcium uptake and absorption from calcium-enriched gluten-free bread. Food Funct. 2016 Apr;7(4):1950-8. doi: 10.1039/c6fo00140h. PMID: 26965706.
2. Jirillo, E., Jirillo, F., & Magrone, T. (2012). Healthy effects exerted by prebiotics, probiotics, and symbiotics with special reference to their impact on the immune system. International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research, 82 (3), 200-208.