Perfil de produtos prebióticos disponíveis em lojas especializadas e avaliação do conhecimento do consumidor em Londrina – PR

Abstract

The growing search for quality of life and healthy eating has driven the consumption of functional foods, among which prebiotics stand out for promoting benefits to intestinal health and the balance of microbiota. This study aimed to characterize products with claims of prebiotic activity available in specialized health food stores in the city of Londrina - PR, as well as to investigate the level of knowledge of the population about these compounds. The methodology involved in-person visits to three establishments, analyzing nutritional labels and conducting supplementary research on manufacturers' websites, as well as an online survey with 152 consumers. The results indicated a higher presence of the compounds fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and pectin (both at 18.75%), followed by β-glucans and inulin. The survey also indicated that, although the majority of respondents claim to know about prebiotics (67.8%), a considerable part of the population still lacks clear information about its function and food sources. The analysis highlighted the diversity and functional potential of the products available in the market, while reinforcing the importance of nutritional education for conscious consumption.