Fraunhofer Institute for Process Engineering and Packaging IVVObesity and nutrition-related illnesses such as arteriosclerosis and diabetes are problematic in industrial nations and increasingly so in Brazil. Indeed, awareness of this and an interest in healthier foods is on the increase in Brazil. The Fraunhofer Project Center is developing new food ingredients and formulations to promote health, for example foods enriched with dietary fibers to reduce cholesterol levels and ingredients to promote gastrointestinal health. One aim is to incorporate health-promoting ingredients into foods without impairing the texture or taste and so achieve widespread consumer acceptance. The effects of the products are being studied in close collaboration with universities and clinical research establishments.
Sugar substitutes
New studies have highlighted the growing problem of obesity. To combat this it is important to develop sugar-free foods with similar properties to their sugar-containing counterparts. These food products must meet the requirements of the food industry and must be enjoyable and easily digestible for consumers.