Tate & Lyle is a leader in dietary fibers, with its PROMITOR® Soluble Fibre and STALITE Polydextrose product ranges, and is committed to using its fiber expertise, combined with investment in cutting-edge research and use of high-end ingredient production facilities, to help food and beverage manufacturers develop products that harness the health benefits of fiber and give consumers the taste and texture they love.

Through the Action on Fiber initiative, Tate & Lyle has pledged to continue to promote the benefits of increasing intake of fiber and the importance of gut health through its thought leadership, communication initiatives, and ongoing engagement with industry experts, healthcare professionals and food and beverage manufacturers.

Dr. Kavita Karnik, global head of nutrition and regulatory affairs at Tate & Lyle, said: “Today’s health-conscious consumers are actively looking for foods and drinks that are fortified with nutrients such as fiber. Fiber does so much more than simply promote healthy bowel function. It can help prolong the feeling of fullness, support gut health, regulate blood cholesterol, glucose and insulin levels and help the immune system function properly. We want to help spread the word about fiber's health and nutritional benefits and that's why we are today pledging to take action on fiber by investing in research projects, supporting health care professionals, food reformulators, and the industry with more evidence-based information, and to use our digital channels to spread the word.”

Consuming the recommended amount of fiber daily can be difficult without also consuming substantial calories, and it is especially challenging for certain groups, like the elderly. Reformulation can be a tool for improving public health as it allows individuals to consume products they prefer while reducing intake of less desirable nutrients, such as sugars and fats, and potentially increasing intake of beneficial nutrients such as dietary fiber.

Amy Glass, UK diet and health policy manager at the Food and Drink Federation, added: “The FDF has long called for a more holistic approach to government nutrition policy, believing there should be a more balanced approach to not just what people need to reduce in their diets, like sugar, calories, and salt, but also what should be increased, like fruit, vegetables and fiber. This industry led initiative aims to make higher fiber diets more appealing, normal, and easy for the population. It is great to have Tate & Lyle on board!”