In a constantly evolving food supplement market, anticipating trends and understanding which ingredients will set the pace is essential for the success of your brand. At Lleó, as experts in the manufacturing and supply of natural ingredients and extracts for third parties, we are at the forefront and we help you innovate and develop products that respond to growing consumer demands.
The year 2025 is set to be a period of consolidation for supplementation, with a strong focus on functionality, sustainability, and efficacy backed by different studies. Below, we explore the categories of emerging ingredients we believe will define the supplement landscape:
1. Next-Generation Adaptogens: Beyond Stress
Adaptogens are no longer a novelty, but their evolution and new combinations promise to be a rising trend. Beyond general wellbeing and stress management (with classics such as Ashwagandha or Rhodiola), we will see a focus on specific adaptogens that optimize cognitive function, improve physical endurance, and support metabolic health.
Research will focus on the synergy between different adaptogens to enhance their effects and provide more personalised solutions for energy, concentration, or post-exercise recovery. Demand for sustainable sources and high-purity extracts will be a key differentiator.
2. Plant-Based Nootropics and Brain Health: The Mind in Focus
Interest in brain health and cognitive function continues to grow. Consumers are seeking natural solutions that improve memory, concentration, mood, and reduce “brain fog.”
Beyond popular ingredients like Bacopa monnieri or Ginkgo biloba, we expect to see the emergence of compounds such as medicinal mushroom extracts (Lion’s Mane), L-Theanine from green tea, and combinations of specific amino acids that support neurotransmission. The development of “clean” and well-tolerated nootropics will be a priority.
3. The Postbiotic Revolution and the Gut-Brain Axis
While probiotics and prebiotics have dominated the gut health space, postbiotics are rapidly gaining ground. Postbiotics are the bioactive metabolites produced by probiotics during fermentation, offering the benefits of probiotics without the need for live microorganisms, which improves formulation and stability.
Their role in immune modulation, inflammation reduction, and intestinal barrier support will be central. In addition, the connection between the gut and the brain (the
gut-brain axis) will drive demand for ingredients that address both areas simultaneously.
4. Ingredientes para el descanso y la recuperación: el valor del sueño
Growing awareness of the importance of sleep for overall health is boosting the demand for supplements that promote rest and recovery.
Ingredients such as Valerian, Lemon Balm, Passionflower, and new combinations of botanical extracts that act on GABA receptors or naturally melatonin production will be essential. Innovation in this field will focus on formulas that encourage restorative sleep without next-day sleepiness.
5. Plant-Based Bioactive Peptides: Functional Proteins
Although collagen peptides are well established, the market is looking for plant-based alternatives and bioactive peptides derived from sources such as peas, rice, or hemp. These peptides not only offer a complete protein profile but may also provide specific functional benefits, such as blood pressure modulation, antioxidant effects, or muscle recovery support.
Their use will expand to functional drinks and bars, as well as traditional powder formats.
Lleó: Your Partner in Cutting-Edge Manufacturing
At Lleó, we understand that ingredient quality and purity are the base of a successful food supplement. Our commitment to innovation and research enables us to provide a wide range of botanical extracts, active ingredients, and raw materials of the highest quality, ready to be incorporated into your formulations.
We are prepared to help you develop products that integrate these emerging ingredients while meeting the strictest standards of quality and sustainability. Contact our team to explore how we can become your strategic partner in creating the supplements of the future.
For more information on how Lleó can help you develop vegan and natural supplements that resonate with current market demands, visit our website: https://lleo.es
