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What is FUTURELIFE made of? A Comprehensive Guide

4 min read

FUTURELIFE was originally created in 2007 as a social project to address malnutrition in Sub-Saharan Africa. The answer to what is FUTURELIFE made of involves a scientifically formulated blend of cereals, proteins, and immune-supporting ingredients designed for a nutritionally complete meal.

Quick Summary

FUTURELIFE is a scientifically developed food that combines key ingredients like SmartMaize, FutureSoy, a specialized protein blend, and immune-enhancing Moducare, along with a range of essential vitamins and minerals to deliver a balanced meal.

Key Points

  • SmartMaize™: A patented whole-grain maize that provides complex carbohydrates and fiber, serving as a core energy source.

  • FutureSoy™: Micronized soy is included for high-quality, plant-based protein, contributing to a balanced amino acid profile.

  • Moducare®: A proprietary blend of plant sterols and sterolins that helps to support and balance the immune system.

  • SmartProtein3D®: In High Protein variants, this blend of whey, casein, and soy proteins provides a multi-stage, sustained release of amino acids.

  • Fortified Nutrients: Products are fortified with a wide array of essential vitamins and minerals to meet daily nutritional requirements.

  • Diverse Fibre Sources: Naturally sourced fibres like inulin and acacia fibre provide prebiotic benefits and assist with gut health and satiety.

  • Low Glycaemic Index (GI): The formulations are designed to have a low GI, ensuring a slow and sustained release of energy.

In This Article

The Core Components of FUTURELIFE

FUTURELIFE is not a single product but a range of formulations, with the flagship Smart food™ serving as the basis for most products. The specific ingredients can vary between the Original, High Protein, and Zero versions, but several key components form the nutritional foundation across the brand. These core ingredients are what set FUTURELIFE apart as a 'smart food.'

SmartMaize™: More Than Just Corn

At the heart of many FUTURELIFE products, including the original Smart food™, is SmartMaize™. This is not just regular whole maize flour. It is produced using a unique, patented cooking process that preserves the whole grain's natural nutritional components, including its fibre, vitamins, and minerals. This patented process is responsible for the distinct grainy texture found in the products and guarantees that it remains high in dietary fibre. This whole-grain goodness contributes complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy release due to its low Glycaemic Index (GI).

FutureSoy™: High-Quality Plant-Based Protein

Another fundamental ingredient is FutureSoy™, a source of high-quality plant-based protein derived from whole soybean flour. Soy protein is highly valued for its comprehensive amino acid profile, and its inclusion helps boost the overall protein content of the meal. For lacto-vegetarians or those seeking plant-based protein sources, this is a significant component, although it should be noted that many FUTURELIFE products also contain milk-derived proteins.

Moducare®: Supporting the Immune System

Moducare® is a unique daily immune supplement added to many FUTURELIFE formulations. It is made from a patented blend of natural plant sterols and sterolins. Research has indicated that these plant nutrients can help support a balanced immune system by regulating the body's immune response. Moducare® is supplied exclusively to FUTURELIFE under license, making it a distinctive feature of the brand.

The Protein and Fibre Matrix

Beyond the core trio, FUTURELIFE products are further enhanced with specialized protein and fibre blends.

The SmartProtein3D® Blend

In the High Protein Smart food™ variant, a more advanced protein system is used, known as SmartProtein3D®. This blend combines three different protein sources with varying digestion rates: fast-releasing whey, intermediate-releasing soy, and slow-releasing casein. This provides a sustained and prolonged release of protein and amino acids, optimizing the muscle repair process, particularly beneficial for active individuals and athletes.

Diverse Sources of Fibre

FUTURELIFE products are intentionally high in dietary fibre, which is sourced from its raw ingredients, like SmartMaize™ and FutureSoy™. Additionally, other beneficial fibres are included:

  • Inulin: A soluble fibre with prebiotic properties, inulin helps promote the growth and activity of good bacteria in the gut, supporting optimal digestion and immune function.
  • Acacia Fibre: Featured in the Zero Smart food™ variant, acacia fibre is a soluble fibre known to increase satiety and aid in blood glucose management.

A Comprehensive Vitamin and Mineral Profile

To ensure a complete and balanced meal, FUTURELIFE products are fortified with a wide spectrum of essential micronutrients. These include:

  • Vitamins: A comprehensive range including Vitamin A, B complex (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12), Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin H, and Vitamin K.
  • Minerals: Essential minerals such as calcium, chromium, iron, potassium, selenium, and zinc are included to meet daily requirements.

Key Ingredients Across the FUTURELIFE Range

Feature Smart Food Original High Protein Smart Food Smart Food Zero Granola Crunch Zero
Carbohydrate Base SmartMaize™, Soy, Sucrose Whole Maize Flour, Whole Soy Bean Flour Soy, Maize, Brown Rice Oats, Barley, Maize Starch
Protein Blend SmartMaize™, FutureSoy™ SmartProtein3D® (Whey, Casein, Soy) Soy, Skim Milk Powder Oats, Barley
Added Immune Support Moducare®, Inulin Moducare®, Inulin Moducare®, Inulin, Probiotics Probiotics, Inulin
Sweeteners Sucrose Sucrose Erythritol, Sucralose Maltitol, Sucralose
Allergens Soy, Cow's Milk Soy, Cow's Milk Soy, Cow's Milk Gluten, Soy, Cow's Milk, Tree Nuts
Added Sugar Yes Yes Zero Added Cane Sugar Zero Added Cane Sugar

How Different Formulations Address Specific Needs

FUTURELIFE's product line offers tailored nutrition for various dietary goals. For instance, the High Protein line is specifically formulated to assist with muscle maintenance and recovery, utilizing the SmartProtein3D® blend to provide a steady stream of amino acids. The Zero versions cater to individuals who need to manage their blood glucose levels or prefer to reduce their sugar intake, replacing added cane sugar with zero-calorie sweeteners. Products like Bran Flakes with Probiotics focus on gut health, combining high dietary fibre with a separate probiotic capsule for optimal effectiveness. This diverse approach ensures that the fundamental principles of balanced, low-GI nutrition are adapted for specific consumer needs.

Conclusion: A Scientifically Designed Meal

The composition of FUTURELIFE is a testament to its origin as a scientifically designed nutritional solution. At its heart lie the patented whole-grain SmartMaize™ and high-quality FutureSoy™, which work together to provide a foundation of complex carbohydrates and plant-based protein. The inclusion of Moducare® adds an immune-supporting dimension, while a carefully selected blend of vitamins, minerals, omega-3, and fibre fills out the nutritional profile. Whether in the Original formulation, a specialized High Protein blend, or a Zero-sugar variant, the resulting product is a convenient and balanced meal or snack designed to provide sustained energy and support overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all FUTURELIFE products are gluten-free. While the Smart food™ line is generally gluten-free, some variants like Granola Crunch or Wheat Smart food contain gluten from ingredients like oats or wheat.

Some FUTURELIFE products are vegan-friendly, such as certain bread and Smart Food variants. However, many products contain milk-derived ingredients like sodium caseinate, skim milk powder, or whey protein, making them unsuitable for vegans.

The grainy texture is a result of the patented SmartMaize™ process. This unique cooking method preserves the naturally occurring fiber, vitamins, and minerals of the whole grain, and the texture is a sign of this high dietary fiber content.

SmartProtein3D® is a scientific blend of three protein sources—whey (fast-release), casein (slow-release), and soy (intermediate-release). This combination ensures a sustained release of amino acids for optimal muscle repair over time.

Yes, some FUTURELIFE products contain probiotics, though the method varies. For instance, the Bran Flakes product includes a separate probiotic capsule, while other variants incorporate prebiotic fiber like inulin to support gut bacteria.

Yes, FUTURELIFE is formulated to be a low glycemic index (GI) food. The scientific combination of carbohydrates, fiber, protein, and fat ensures that energy is released slowly and provides a sustained energy boost.

FUTURELIFE High Protein Smart food™ contains the specialized SmartProtein3D® blend (whey, casein, soy) for a significantly higher protein content, while the Original version relies primarily on SmartMaize™ and FutureSoy as its protein sources.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.