SternVitamin addresses demand for plant-based drinks with health benefits

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SternVitamin’s new SternHeartV, SternGutV and SternBonesV premixes help manufacturers align plant-based drinks to the needs of specific target groups. Pic: SternVitamin

SternVitamin, a subsidiary of Stern-Wywiol Gruppe, has developed micronutrient premixes for the plant-based dairy alternatives segment that ‘upgrade’ plant-based drinks based on oats and other protein sources.

Market research company Persistence Market Research (PMR) predicts annual growth rates exceeding 6% for plant-based drinks through 2028. And the “plant-based revolution,” as Innova Market Insights terms the trend, opens further value-add potential. Fortification with micronutrients gives products additional health value. Plant-based alternatives to dairy products are by far the strongest category, according to Innova.

SternVitamin’s new SternHeartV, SternGutV and SternBonesV premixes help manufacturers align plant-based drinks to the needs of specific target groups.

SternHeartV addresses athletes, professionals with high-stress jobs and older people. This micronutrient combination of B vitamins, vitamin E, folic acid, iodine and zinc supports normal homocysteine metabolism and the formation of new red blood cells. In addition, it contributes to optimum muscle function and to protecting the cells from oxidative stress.

For keeping bones healthy into advanced age there is SternBonesV for plant-based drinks. Its combination of vitamin D, vitamin K2, magnesium and calcium helps maintain bone health, and is appropriate for women in all age groups, vegans, and lactose-intolerant people who want to be sure of getting a good calcium supply from plant-based products.

SternGutV premix supports the gut-associated immune system, through a combination of micronutrients for strengthening immune defenses, and fibers with prebiotic and immune-modulating properties.

According to PMR, one of the main goals in the development of plant-based alternatives is to meet consumers’ nutrition preferences, to offer added health benefits without compromising on taste.

SternVitamin said it achieves this goal through its cooperation with another Stern-Wywiol subsidiary, Planteneers.

At the company’s Plant Based Competence Center, the sister companies develop combinations of ingredients for a range of applications to meet the individual needs of specific customers. The health benefits of these premixes can be marketed effectively on the drink packages using EU-approved health claims.