OptiBiotix Health PLC (LON:OPTI) has announced the launch of WellBiome, a blend of fibres and minerals to promote the diversity of the gut microbiome.
The life sciences firm said it is an evolution of its SlimBiome product, which is a functional ingredient sold in more than 70 countries formulated to support weight loss and weight management.
READ: OptiBiotix Health business inks UK distribution deal for two key products
The group noted that WellBiome provides a scientifically formulated, patented and trademarked solution for partners to either enter into, or extend, their product value proposition into the wellness market using functional ingredients to improve immune, digestive, heart or metabolic health.
The AIM-quoted company noted that a recent NutritionInsight expert roundtable discussion concluded that the pandemic has prompted a significant focus on health and wellbeing amongst consumers.
Topics such as immune health and staying healthy are all at the forefront of minds at present and broader issues such as gut health, tackled by WellBiome, and weight management, tackled by SlimBiome, are of increased interest to consumers, it added.
OptiBiotix said that the health & wellness industry was estimated to be worth US$4.2 trillion in 2019 with the digestive health segment accounting for US$60bn, while an estimate from Global Market Insights said the global prebiotics market will reach US$7.2bn by 2024, up from US$3.4bn in 2016.
“Consumer understanding and interest in the microbiome is growing rapidly, particularly in the US, and this is creating a market opportunity that is large and expanding,” Optobiotix chief executive Stephen O'Hara said in statement.
“The development of functional ingredients like WellBiome, backed by science and clinical studies and protected by a broad IP portfolio, allows OptiBiotix and its partners to access this large and growing health and wellbeing trend,” he added.