Cargill’s survey reveals consumers are now more interested in immune health

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Since the pandemic began, consumers are more interested in supporting their immune health, according to Cargill’s (Wayzata, MN) recent global Feed4Thought survey. More specifically, among the 3,008 survey respondents from three continents, 84% of Chinese, 64% of American, and 58% of British consumers said immune support has become more important to them since the start of the pandemic.

"Consumers are recognizing the benefits of taking action for their immune and gut health to support overall health and well-being," said Chuck Warta, president of Cargill Health Technologies, in a press release. "Our Feed4Thought survey is invaluable for understanding how consumer attitudes about immune and gut health have evolved and how we can better meet their growing demand for immune support supplements."

Feed4Thought Infographic

The survey also revealed an increased understanding of the gut-immune health connection. In fact, more than four out of five respondents believe that good gut health can reduce the chance of becoming ill. In the U.S., more than half reported that healthy digestion will be more important to them in the next six months than it was previously. A total of 43% of U.S. consumers—46% in China (6% increase) and 33% in the U.K. (4% increase)—said they will take an immune-health supplement in the next six months, an 8% increase since the start of the pandemic.