The weight-management category is evolving. We have all seen it. Marketers are turning away from the word “Diet” opting instead for words like “fitness”, “healthy”, and “zero”. And it stands to reason since most people today will say they are watching their weight rather than dieting. Further, the focus in this category isn’t just on simple weight-loss, anymore, Instead we are controlling appetite, boosting satiety, burning fat, blocking fat and carbs, and swapping fat for lean muscle.
We are also seeing portion packaging and a push towards healthy alternatives to products often perceived as contributing to weight gain. Weight management is takes many forms, including a focus on marketing better-for-you products that provide satisfaction through satiety. These products are often taking measures such as adding protein and fiber to products.
Manufacturers are reformulating and have been developing products with overall health and weight wellness as a focus. The industry is developing products that are more contemporary are often considered trendy.
In this year’s Packaged Facts’ weight management report forecasts U.S. retail sales of weight management products and services, which include food and beverages, meal replacements and diet aids, and commercial weight management programs, are expected to reach $38 billion by the time the 2013 numbers are in and $40.9 billion in 2016. The food and beverage category represents the largest share of sales, at almost 80%.
One area showing very promising growth signs is in the nutrition bar segment. Bars are offering consumers a number of 
advantages fit for modern lifestyles and evolving dietary trends. Once aimed squarely at the sports nutrition segment, today’s bars offer consumers a healthier on-the-go option, with added nutrient benefits. Thanks to custom nutrient formulation, bars can be developed to work with every type of weight-management philosophy.
Ingredients to watch:
In addition to fiber and protein, here are a few of the ingredients fueling foods and beverages in the weight management category:
Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) –has, in recent reports, shown effects for stimulating fat breakdown in the body
L-carnitine-for a boost in fat burning
Chromium Picolinate-has been shown to help maintain healthy blood sugar levels and assists in the processing of fats and proteins
Resveratrol-may have a positive effect on increasing the body’s ability to burn fat
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Wright's Thoughts on Nutrition 