SternVitamin launches micronutrient premixes for functional confectionery
SternVitamin is making its first appearance at ProSweets Cologne (1-4 February 2026), presenting micronutrient premix solutions designed for the growing functional confectionery sector. The company will exhibit alongside sister brands of the Stern-Wywiol Group in Hall 10.1 at Stand J009, showcasing applications including a protein bar and a raspberry-coconut wafer.
Melanie Wunderlich, R&D Technologist Sweets at SternVitamin
According to Innova Market Insights, consumers are increasingly seeking ‘better-for-you’ products that combine taste with health benefits. The market research indicates that snacks now serve multiple purposes beyond satisfying hunger, including boosting energy levels, improving mood, and optimising nutrient intake. Consumer preference has shifted towards products containing minimal unhealthy ingredients whilst incorporating natural and functional components that contribute meaningfully to daily nutrition. Fortified products containing vitamins, minerals, fibre, and protein are experiencing particularly high demand.
Cognitive function and energy metabolism applications
In response to the healthy snacking trend, SternVitamin has developed two demonstration products. The raspberry-coconut wafer, created in collaboration with SternEnzym, OlbrichtArom, and Sternchemie, contains the Stern PowerUp premix. This formulation comprises vitamins B1, B3, B6, B12, C, and pantothenic acid, which support mental and cognitive function.
The double chocolate brownie-flavoured protein bar, developed with Herza, SternLife, and other Stern-Wywiol Group brands, incorporates a premix providing B vitamins and additional nutrients for sustained performance and immune health. Vitamins B1, B3, and B6 support energy metabolism to help increase energy levels, whilst vitamins C and E support normal immune system function.
The raspberry-coconut wafer contains the Stern PowerUp premix from SternVitamin
Technical challenges in confectionery fortification
SternVitamin offers customer-specific premixes alongside innovative solutions such as SternGummies, which demonstrate target groups for whom particular micronutrients are especially relevant. The small product formats and gel and structuring systems present technical challenges for confectionery fortification.
“Fruit gums, sweets, and similar products often weigh very little, only a few grams. This makes premix dosing a challenge. Thanks to our technological expertise, we can provide our customers with the optimal solution,” explains Melanie Wunderlich, R&D Technologist, Sweets at SternVitamin.
SternVitamin GmbH & Co. KG, based in Ahrensburg near Hamburg, provides comprehensive services in micronutrient premix development. The company formulates customised vitamin and mineral blends that can incorporate additional functional ingredients including amino acids and plant extracts. These micronutrient blends are suitable for fortifying foods, beverages, and dietary supplements.
As a subsidiary of the independent, owner-managed Stern-Wywiol Group, SternVitamin has access to the technical knowledge and application technology of sister companies. The Stern-Wywiol Group operates nine international production sites, enabling global customer service.
- For more information, visit: https://sternvitamin.de/en/
