Evaluating the Immunity-Boosting Efficacy and Safety of Biscuits Enriched with Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbal Extracts in Healthy Individuals

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Research and Development and Quality, Britannia Industries Limited, Bengaluru, India

2 Department of Nutrition, Research and Development, Britannia Industries Limited, Bengaluru, India

3 Department of Product Development Core Bakery, Research and Development, Britannia Industries Limited, Bengaluru, India

4 Department of Product Development Health and Wellness, Research and Development, Britannia Industries Limited, Bengaluru, India

5 Department of Diabetology and Endocrinology, Sadhana Diabetes and Hormone’s Clinic, Mumbai, India

6 Department of Kayachikitsa, Parul Ayurveda Hospital, Parul University, Vadodara, India

7 Department of Samhita, DY Patil University School of Ayurveda, Navi Mumbai, India

8 Department of Research in Ayurveda, Ayurved Seva Sangh’s Ayurved Mahavidyalaya, Nashik, India

9 Department of Kriyasharir, MAM’s Sumatibhai Shah Ayurved Mahavidyalay, Pune, India

10 Department of Clinical Research, Target Institute of Medical Education and Research, Mumbai, India

10.30476/ijns.2025.106494.1445

Abstract

Background: Immunity safeguards against infections and strengthening it through diet can enhance health status. This trial evaluated the immune-boosting efficacy and safety of vitamin-, mineral-, and herb-enriched biscuits in preventing infections and allergies.
Methods: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial enrolled 664 healthy participants assigned to either Britannia Nutri Choice Herbs biscuits or a placebo. Participants consumed three biscuits twice daily in the morning and evening for 180 days, with compliance (≥80%) monitored. Quality of life (QoL) was assessed using the World Health
Organization Quality of Life Brief Version (WHO-QOL BREF). A complete blood count (CBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), and interleukins 6 and 10 assessments were performed for immunity and inflammation. Immunity parameters, energy, stamina, and neurocognitive health were measured by the visual analogue scale (VAS), perceived stress scale (PSS), and Hamilton anxiety rating scale (HAMA). The global assessment scale changes were analysed too.
Results: Of 664 participants, 608 completed the trial (300 in the biscuit group, 308 in placebo). After 150 days, the biscuit group had significantly fewer infections and allergies (136 vs. 208; p<0.01). Energy, strength, and stamina improved, particularly in children. No significant differences were observed in BMI, neurocognitive health status, immunity markers, QoL, or safety.
Conclusion: Regular consumption of Nutri Choice Herbs biscuits reduced infections and allergies, especially respiratory related in adults. It enhanced energy, stamina, digestion, appetite, and bowel movements; while easing abdominal tightness in children. So these enriched biscuits can be safely recommended to boost immunity and overall health.

Highlights

Sudhir Nema (Google Scholar)

Keywords

References

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International Journal of Nutrition Sciences
Volume 10, Issue 4 - Serial Number 4
December 2025
Pages 582-592

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