Abstract
Background: This study investigates the influence of functional foods (FFs) on the health of the Kazakh population and their potential in preventing diseases associated with inadequate and unbalanced nutrition.Methods: The research is based on an unstructured telephone interview conducted with experts in the production, sale, and consumption of functional foods in Kazakhstan. The experts provided insights into current trends in the Kazakh functional food market, factors driving the demand for FFs, and the preferences of the Kazakh population concerning functional foods.Result: The analysis revealed significant factors contributing to the growth in demand for FFs among the Kazakh population. These factors include an increasing interest in healthy lifestyles, marketing strategies promoting FFs, and the endorsement of biologically active supplements by medical professionals. The study also identified the most favored FFs among Kazakh consumers, with a particular preference for various pro- and synbiotic dairy products, prebiotic grain-based foods, sweetened foods, and vitamin-enriched products.Conclusion: The findings highlight the potential of FFs in positively impacting the health of the Kazakh population and promoting preventive nutrition practices. The study emphasizes the importance of considering the general nutritional status and disease incidence in developing the range structure of FFs in Kazakhstan. The research underscores the need for a well-informed and targeted approach to meet the specific dietary requirements and preferences of the Kazakh population, thereby contributing to improved overall health and well-being.