In recent years, the gut microbiome has gained significant attention in the life sciences field. Could you explain why this area is considered revolutionary and how ADM is involved in this sector?
The gut microbiome has indeed become a groundbreaking area of study. What we’re witnessing is a shift from a narrow focus on digestive health to understanding how the microbiome impacts a wide range of bodily functions, from mental health to metabolic processes. At ADM, we’ve broadened our research beyond traditional digestive health applications to areas like metabolic health, sleep, stress, and even mood regulation. One of the emerging focuses is psychobiotics, which address the gut-brain axis, showing how the microbiome can affect mental well-being.
The potential here is vast because we now know that the microbiome has connections to almost every aspect of health—what we call the “gut-brain axis,” “gut-skin axis,” and so on.
Each microbiome strain has unique properties, and strain specificity is key to targeting distinct health outcomes, whether that’s better sleep, weight management, or digestive health. ADM is prioritizing research into these specialized strains to ensure that our products deliver tangible results to consumers seeking health improvements across multiple areas.
ADM is known for pioneering work in postbiotics. Could you explain what postbiotics are and how they differ from probiotics, and how ADM’s products are positioned within this category?
Postbiotics represent a new frontier in microbiome science, and ADM is a leader in this space. While most consumers are familiar with prebiotics and probiotics, postbiotics are unique because they consist of inactivated microorganisms that still retain beneficial effects. This means they don’t need to be alive to be effective, which eliminates issues like refrigeration and stability that probiotics often face. This opens up a world of possibilities, as postbiotics can be incorporated into a wider range of products, from beverages to snacks, making it easier for people to integrate them into their daily lives.
At ADM, we’ve developed specialized facilities in Valencia, Spain, to produce both probiotics and postbiotics. In our clinical trials, we’ve tested three groups—placebo, probiotic, and postbiotic—to evaluate the distinct impacts. Postbiotics allow us to provide health benefits without the limitations typically associated with probiotics, expanding their potential applications. With postbiotics, we’re able to create functional foods and beverages that go beyond traditional capsules, helping consumers achieve better health in more accessible ways.
With rising obesity rates, how is ADM addressing the demand for healthier food options, particularly in the context of plant-based protein and gut health?
Obesity is indeed a major global health issue, and ADM is addressing it through innovative solutions in protein and biotics. We’ve observed that consumers on GLP-1 treatments, for example, have specific needs related to weight loss, muscle retention, and gastrointestinal support. Through proprietary studies, we identified key needs like muscle mass retention, improved digestion, and hydration for those on GLP-1 medications. Plant-based protein has become especially important for these consumers, as it supports muscle health without contributing to common digestive issues.
Our portfolio includes a range of plant-based proteins, such as pea and soy, as well as Fibersol, a prebiotic fiber that promotes satiety. By offering these solutions, we’re not only helping individuals manage weight but also supporting the growing demand for plant-based diets. This approach allows us to provide products that align with consumers’ health goals while also addressing broader societal issues like obesity.
ADM has traditionally been a supplier of ingredients. Are you seeing a shift in how you approach consumer education in the microbiome and nutraceutical spaces?
Historically, ADM focused on educating brands that would then communicate with consumers. However, with complex topics like the microbiome, we’re finding that direct consumer education is increasingly important. Consumers today are more curious and well-informed, and they seek scientifically backed products. To bridge the gap, we’re exploring various channels to share information directly with consumers, partnering with publishers and digital platforms to spread awareness about the science behind our ingredients.
Our goal is to make consumers aware of the benefits of our clinically studied products so they can make more informed purchasing decisions. Educating consumers on why strain specificity matters, or why postbiotics are unique, positions ADM and our partners as reliable sources of wellness solutions. This education not only benefits us but also promotes a competitive marketplace where consumers can identify high-quality, science-backed products.
With sustainability becoming a critical concern, how does ADM balance product innovation with affordability for consumers?
Value is a complex equation, especially in today’s market where consumers are price-sensitive but also increasingly aware of quality and sustainability. At ADM, we emphasize both affordability and clinical efficacy, ensuring that consumers get maximum benefit for their investment. For instance, in the microbiome space, we’re committed to bringing high-value products that are backed by science, without compromising on affordability.
We also recognize that some consumers may still opt for cheaper alternatives that lack scientific backing. This presents a challenge, but we believe that by continuing to educate both brands and consumers, we can shift the focus toward quality. By helping our partners create products that meet real consumer needs—such as those identified in our obesity and GLP-1 studies—we’re positioning ADM as a leader in sustainable and effective health solutions, ultimately benefitting both the industry and the end consumer.
