Effects on plasma carotenoids and consumer acceptance of a functional carrot-based product to supplement vegetable intake: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Background: Populations worldwide do not meet recommended vegetable intakes, yet significant amounts of vegetables are wasted, including carrots. Aim: To investigate whether advice to consume carrot powder is an effective strategy to supplement vegetable intake, compared to advice to consume more vegetables. Design: Healthy adults (n = 42) were randomly assigned to either two servings carrot powder/day (CP) [5.2 mg/day carotenoids] or carotenoid-rich vegetables (VEG) [11.4 mg/day carotenoids] for four weeks. Plasma carotenoids were assessed pre- and post-intervention, and consumer attitudes surveyed weekly. Results: Total plasma carotenoids increased similarly between groups (median[interquartile range], CP: +0.31[0.09, 0.42]µg/mL; VEG: +0.33[0.23, 0.48]µg/mL, P = 0.40). ‘Liking’ and ‘desire to eat’ were lower and ‘boredom’ higher (P < 0.05) with CP versus VEG. ‘Effort to consume’ CP remained constant but decreased for VEG after four weeks. Conclusions: Carrot powder effectively boosts vegetable intake, however greater consumer understanding of the product and how it may be used is required for improved consumer acceptance.

Keywords

• Carrots
• Vegetables
• Carotenoids
• Consumer attitude
• Food waste
• Food loss