Nourishing the growing elderly population

Reports collated by the Leatherhead Food Research from the United Nations and other organisations indicate that the percentage of the global population aged 60 and over will increase from 11% in 2000 to 22% by 2050. By that time the number of people falling into this age category is expected to grow from 605 million to about 2 billion. Many of the elderly will be prone to such conditions as coronary heart disease (CHD), osteoporosis and dementia.

The needs of the elderly have many implications for the global food industry.  This affluent demographic group becomes more inclined to seek out products that promote health and longevity, as well as helping them to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle past middle age. This trend has already been observed in sectors such as milk, yoghurt drinks, bottled water and ready meals, and seems set to shape NPD activity to an ever increasing extent over the coming years.

From a supply perspective, many of the leaders within the global market for functional foods represent the key suppliers of products geared towards the older age groups. Many companies now supply distinct functional food ranges which are thought to carry particular appeal to the older age groups and are purchased for their alleged health benefits. Examples include heart health products such as Unilever’s pro.activ cholesterol-lowering dairy spread, as well as fibre-enriched products such as Fiber One from General Mills.