In addition to the general nutritional benefits of our products, we offer consumers a variety of products with Branded Active Benefits (BABs). This is a range of specific ingredients and formulas that provide additional, proven health benefits to our main food and beverage categories. In 2007, products with BABs achieved sales of CHF 4.4 billion, an increase of more than 16%. These include products containing Actifibras to aid digestion, BL for improved immunity and protection, and ActiCol to help lower blood cholesterol.

Even in developed countries, malnutrition affects up to 50% of residents in nursing homes and up to 70% of elderly patients in hospital, leading to increased illness and mortality. In response, Nestlé has developed fortified drinks, soups and prepared meals designed to suit the changing nutrition needs, and taste and texture preferences, of senior citizens. For example, Nestlé’s Nutren Optimum range, available in Latin America, is enriched with calcium, phosphorus, Omega 3 and 6 and prebiotics, while the products from Davigel, a branch of Nestlé France Professional, include Les Essentiels, frozen vegetable or fruit purées enriched with protein, calcium and fibre for use in desserts and soups, and pre-cooked Savoureux meals, rich in protein and calcium, with the right texture for patients with swallowing problems.