WO2015069678A1

WO2015069678A1 - Dairy mix-in with fruits and vegetables

Info

Publication number: WO2015069678A1
Application number: PCT/US2014/063985
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gaurav PATEL; Normanella Dewille; Rockendra GUPTA; Tama BLOCH
Original assignee: Abbott Laboratories
Priority date: 2013-11-07
Filing date: 2014-11-05
Publication date: 2015-05-14

Abstract

Powdered nutritional compositions that are readily dispersible in dairy products, such as milk and yogurt, are disclosed. The powdered nutritional compositions include powdered soluble fruit fiber, powdered insoluble fruit fiber, powdered soluble vegetable fiber, and powdered insoluble vegetable fiber in amounts that provide from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of serving fruit and from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of serving vegetable per serving of the powdered nutritional composition. The powdered nutritional composition may further comprise reconstitutable milk.

Description

DAIRY MIX-IN WITH FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/901,145, filed November 7, 2013, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure is directed generally to nutritional compositions and more particularly to powdered nutritional compositions containing fruit and vegetable fiber that are suitable for dispersion in fluid dairy products, thereby nutritionally enhancing the fluid dairy products. This Application claims priority to.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Dairy products typically provide protein, fat, lactose, vitamins, and minerals. They are typically good sources of some nutrients such as calcium and protein but poor sources of soluble and insoluble fiber as well as other key nutrients such as iron, magnesium, potassium, mixed carotenoids, lutein, mixed tocopherols, Vitamin D, Vitamin C, prebiotics, and docosahexanoic acid ("DHA").

SUMMARY

[0004] In a first exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a powdered nutritional composition. The composition comprises powdered soluble fruit fiber, powdered insoluble fruit fiber, powdered soluble vegetable fiber, and powdered insoluble vegetable fiber. The composition will also typically comprise other phytonutrients present in whole or processed fruit and vegetable powders. The powdered nutritional composition provides from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of a serving of fruit and from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of a serving of vegetables per serving of the powdered nutritional composition. For example, the powdered nutritional composition provides from 1 - 24 g fruit solids and from 0.7 - 14 g of vegetable solids per 10 - 50 g of the powdered nutritional composition. The powdered nutritional composition forms a dispersion when mixed with a dairy product. [0005] In a second exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a powdered nutritional composition. The composition comprises from 25 to 50 weight percent fruit and vegetable fibers selected from the group consisting of apple powder, carrot powder, pumpkin powder, and combinations thereof and from 15 to 25 weight percent fructooligosaccarides. The composition will also typically comprise other phytonutrients present in whole or processed fruit and vegetable powders. The powdered nutritional composition provides from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of a serving of fruit and from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of a serving of vegetables per serving of the powdered nutritional composition. For example, the powdered nutritional composition provides from 1 - 24 g fruit solids and from 0.7 - 14 g of vegetable solids per 10 - 50 g of the powdered nutritional composition. The powdered nutritional composition forms a dispersion when mixed with a dairy product.

[0006] In a third exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a powdered nutritional composition. The composition comprises reconstitutable milk, powdered soluble fruit fiber, powdered insoluble fruit fiber, powdered soluble vegetable fiber, and powdered insoluble vegetable fiber. The composition will also typically comprise other phytonutrients present in whole or processed fruit and vegetable powders. The powdered nutritional composition provides from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of a serving of fruit and from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of a serving of vegetables per serving of the powdered nutritional composition. For example, the powdered nutritional composition provides from 1 - 24 g fruit solids and from 0.7 - 14 g of vegetable solids per 10 - 50 g of the powdered nutritional composition. The powdered nutritional composition forms a dispersion when mixed with water.

[0007] In a fourth exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a liquid nutritional composition comprising a powdered nutritional composition according to the first or second exemplary embodiment described above and milk.

[0008] In a fifth exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a liquid nutritional composition comprising a powdered nutritional composition according to the third exemplary embodiment described above and water.

[0009] In a sixth exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a process for preparing a liquid nutritional composition, which process comprises dispersing a powdered nutritional composition according to the first or second exemplary embodiment as described above in milk.

[0010] In a seventh exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a process for preparing a liquid nutritional composition, which process comprises dispersing a powdered nutritional composition according to the third exemplary embodiment as described above in water.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] While embodiments encompassing the general inventive concepts may take various forms, there will hereinafter be described several illustrative embodiments with the

understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered merely an exemplification of the general inventive concepts, which are not intended to be limited by these exemplary

embodiments.

[0012] The terms "nutritional composition" and "nutritional product" as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refer to nutritional liquids and nutritional powders (i.e., "powdered nutritional compositions"), the latter of which may be reconstituted to form a nutritional liquid, all of which comprise one or more of fruit and vegetable fibers and are suitable for oral consumption by a human.

[0013] The terms "liquid nutritional composition" and "nutritional liquid" are used

interchangeably herein, and unless otherwise specified, refer to nutritional products in ready-to- consume liquid form and/or concentrated liquid form.

[0014] The terms "fat" and "oil" as used herein, unless otherwise specified, are used interchangeably to refer to lipid materials derived or processed from plants or animals. These terms also include synthetic lipid materials so long as such synthetic materials are suitable for oral administration to humans.

[0015] The term "fluid dairy product" as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to any dairy product or dairy product substitute or equivalent that has a product form that is readily mixable or otherwise combinable with the powdered nutritional compositions disclosed herein or otherwise contemplated by the general inventive concepts disclosed herein, such that when so mixed or combined, the powdered nutritional compositions are dispersed in the fluid dairy product. Examples of such fluid dairy products include liquid dairy products (e.g. , milk) and semi-solid, semi-liquid, or otherwise non-solid dairy products (e.g., yogurt, pudding, etc.).

[0016] "Fluid dairy products" include "traditional fluid dairy products," examples of traditional fluid dairy products include, but are not limited to, milk, cream, yogurt, cottage cheese, and secondary milk consumables (e.g. , milk- or cream-containing non-solid foods such as mashed potatoes, milkshakes, malts, gelatins, puddings, etc.). Cheese may be included as a "traditional fluid dairy product," but only if the cheese is in a liquid, semi-solid, semi-liquid, non-solid, or otherwise combinable state. Exemplary mammals that produce milk for human consumption include bovines, cows, goats, sheep, buffalo, and humans.

[0017] "Fluid dairy products" further include "fluid dairy product substitutes." Examples of fluid dairy product substitutes include, but are not limited to, milks, creams, yogurts, gelatins, and puddings made or derived from, for example, soy, coconut, grain (e.g., rice, oat, etc.), nut (e.g., almond, peanut), and so forth.

[0018] The term "serving" or "serving of the powdered nutritional composition" as used herein, unless otherwise specified, is intended to be construed as any amount that is intended to be consumed by an individual in one sitting or within one hour or less. In certain embodiments, a serving of powdered nutritional composition has a mass of at least about 10 g, or at least about 15 g, and up to about 30 g, or up to about 50 g of the powdered nutritional composition. In certain embodiments, a serving of powdered nutritional composition equals about 16 g of the powdered nutritional composition, which may be dispersed in, for example, 8 fl oz (i.e., 1 cup) of milk. In certain embodiments, a serving of powdered nutritional composition equals about 24.5 g of the powdered nutritional composition, which may be dispersed in, for example, 8 fl oz (i.e., 1 cup) of milk.

[0019] The terms "fruit serving" and "vegetable serving" as used herein, unless otherwise specified, are intended to be construed as an amount of fruit or vegetable fiber that would be equivalent to a serving of a fruit or vegetable as defined by USDA guidelines. For example, "¼ cup of fruit serving" can describe an amount of fruit powder that, if consumed as actual fruit, would equal an amount of fruit solids (including fruit fiber) contained in ¼ cup of the actual fruit.

[0020] The terms "fruit solid" and "vegetable solid" as used herein, unless otherwise specified, are intended to be construed as an amount of fruit or vegetable matter, including fiber, that remains after a substantial portion (e.g., 90 - 100%) of the liquid is removed from a fruit or vegetable.

[0021] The terms "powder," "reconstitutable," and "reconstitutable powder" as used herein, unless otherwise specified, each describe a physical form of a nutritional composition, or portion thereof, that is flowable or scoopable and can be reconstituted with water or another aqueous liquid prior to consumption.

[0022] The term "Vitamin E" as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to a group of eight compounds that include the four tocopherols (alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta- tocopherols), the corresponding tocotrienols, stereoisomers of the foregoing, and combinations thereof. The tocopherols are molecules with a chromanol ring and a phytyl tail that differ in the number and position of methyl groups on the ring structure. The corresponding tocotrienols also include the chromanol ring and phytyl tail, however, the phytyl tail of the tocotrienols have three points of unsaturation. In certain embodiments, "Vitamin E" refers to R R-a-tocopherol, other stereoisomers of a-tocopherol (i.e., RRS-, RSR-, RSS-, SRR-, SSR-, SRS-, and SSS-a- tocopherol), and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, "Vitamin E" refers to a synthetic form of Vitamin E, such as all-rac-a-tocopheryl acetate or dl-a-tocopherol. In certain embodiments, "Vitamin E" refers to a combination of natural Vitamin E (i.e., RRR-a- tocopherol) and synthetic Vitamin E.

[0023] The term "regular intervals" as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to administration in a repeating, periodic fashion where the time between administrations is approximately (or intended to be approximately) the same. In various embodiments,

administration at regular intervals includes daily administration or weekly administration. In further embodiments, the term "regular intervals" refers to administration 1-2 times per week, administration 1-3 times per week, administration 2-3 times per week, administration 1-4 times per week, administration 1-5 times per week, administration 2-5 times per week, administration 3-5 times per week, administration 1-6 times per week, administration 1-7 times per week, administration 2-6 times per week, administration 2-7 times per week, administration 1-2 times per day, administration 1-3 times per day, administration 1-4 times per day, administration 2-3 times per day, administration 2-4 times per day, administration 3-4 times per day, administration 2-5 times per day, administration 3-5 times per day, or administration 4-5 times per day.

[0024] The term "soluble fiber" as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to a type of dietary fiber that is soluble in water.

[0025] The term "insoluble fiber" as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to a type of dietary fiber that is insoluble in water.

[0026] The term "dispersion" as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to a mixture in which particles of one substance are scattered throughout another substance. A dispersion can manifest as a suspension, a colloid, or a solution.

[0027] The term "readily dispersible" as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to a solid that is easily blended with a liquid or other viscous substance such that no agglomeration or settling occurs with normal agitation or mixing for one minute or less. For example, manual stirring with a spoon or similar device may be sufficient to create a dispersion. As another example, vigorous shaking may be sufficient to create a dispersion. "Readily dispersible" is broader in scope than "soluble" or "dissolvable." In certain embodiments, the powdered nutritional composition or components thereof are compounded with or without the use of an emulsifier. An exemplary emulsifier is lecithin.

[0028] In a first exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a powdered nutritional composition. The composition comprises powdered soluble fruit fiber, powdered insoluble fruit fiber, powdered soluble vegetable fiber, and powdered insoluble vegetable fiber. In certain embodiments, the composition may also comprise other phytonutrients present in whole or processed fruit and vegetable powders. The powdered nutritional composition provides from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of a serving of fruit and from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of a serving of vegetables per serving of the powdered nutritional composition. For example, the powdered nutritional composition provides from 1 - 24 g fruit solids and from 0.7 - 14 g of vegetable solids per 10 - 50 g of the powdered nutritional composition. The powdered nutritional composition forms a dispersion when mixed with a dairy product. In certain embodiments, the dispersion may be a suspension, a colloid, or a solution.

[0029] In a second exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a powdered nutritional composition. The composition comprises from 25 to 50 weight percent fruit and vegetable powders as sources of fruit and vegetable fibers, said powders selected from the group consisting of apple powder, carrot powder, pumpkin powder, and combinations thereof; and from 15 to 25 weight percent fructooligosaccarides. In certain embodiments, the composition may also comprise other phytonutrients present in whole or processed fruit and vegetable powders. The powdered nutritional composition provides from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of a serving of fruit and from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of a serving of vegetables per serving of the powdered nutritional composition. For example, the powdered nutritional composition provides from 1 - 24 g fruit solids and from 0.7 - 14 g of vegetable solids per 10 - 50 g of the powdered nutritional composition. The powdered nutritional composition forms a dispersion when mixed with a dairy product. In certain embodiments the dispersion may be a suspension, a colloid, or a solution.

[0030] In a third exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a powdered nutritional composition. The composition comprises reconstitutable milk, powdered soluble fruit fiber, powdered insoluble fruit fiber, powdered soluble vegetable fiber, and powdered insoluble vegetable fiber. In certain embodiments, the composition may also comprise other

phytonutrients present in whole or processed fruit and vegetable powders. The powdered nutritional composition provides from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of a serving of fruit and from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of a serving of vegetables per serving of the powdered nutritional composition. For example, the powdered nutritional composition provides from 1 - 24 g fruit solids and from 0.7 - 14 g of vegetable solids per 10 - 50 g of the powdered nutritional composition. The powdered nutritional composition forms a dispersion when mixed with water. In certain embodiments, the dispersion may be a suspension, a colloid, or a solution.

[0031] In a fourth exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a liquid nutritional composition comprising a powdered nutritional composition according to the first or second exemplary embodiment described above and milk. [0032] In a fifth exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a liquid nutritional composition comprising a powdered nutritional composition according to the third exemplary embodiment described above and water.

[0033] In a sixth exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a process for preparing a liquid nutritional composition, which process comprises dispersing a powdered nutritional composition according to the first or second exemplary embodiment as described above in milk.

[0034] In a seventh exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a process for preparing a liquid nutritional composition, which process comprises dispersing a powdered nutritional composition according to the third exemplary embodiment as described above in water.

Nutritional Powders

[0035] The powdered nutritional compositions may be reconstituted prior to consumption with a suitable aqueous liquid, semi-liquid, or semi-solid, e.g. , a fluid dairy product or other aqueous liquid, in an amount or volume sufficient to form a nutritional liquid for immediate oral or enteral use. In this context, "immediate" use generally means within about 48 hours, more typically within about 24 hours, most typically right after or within 20 minutes of reconstitution. Further, when reconstituted, the powdered nutritional compositions provide the desired ingredient concentrations as described herein for the nutritional liquid embodiments, which include enhanced fluid dairy products. The powdered nutritional compositions may include spray dried powders, dry mixed powders, agglomerated powders, lecithinated powders, combinations thereof, or powders prepared by other suitable methods. The powdered nutritional compositions may be blended by any dry blending method known in the art, including but not limited to blending using a ribbon blender or a plow blender.

[0036] The powdered nutritional compositions are designed to form a dispersion when mixed with a liquid, such as a dairy product or water. Thus, powdered nutritional compositions of the present disclosure are readily dispersible. The powdered nutritional compositions may be mixed with a liquid having a temperature below 21°C (70°F) without forming aggregates and without settling out of the dispersion. By way of example, the powdered nutritional compositions may be mixed with a liquid with normal stirring or mixing using a spoon for approximately one minute.

[0037] Unless otherwise specified, if a weight range is recited as "per 1 gram (g) of powdered nutritional composition," "% by weight of powdered nutritional composition," or a similarly- worded phrase, such a weight range refers to embodiments that do not include reconstitutable milk. For embodiments that include reconstitutable milk and as related to ingredients other than the reconstitutable milk, if the phrase "per 1 gram (g) of powdered nutritional composition," "% by weight of powdered nutritional composition," or a similar phrase is used, which should be interpreted as 1 gram of the powdered nutritional composition excluding any contribution from the reconstitutable milk.

Powdered Soluble Fruit Fiber

[0038] Powdered soluble fruit fiber can be provided in the powdered nutritional compositions as powders of one or more individual fruits, one or more blends of several fruits, and/or one or more blends of several fruits and vegetables. The powders of one or more individual fruits, one or more blends of several fruits, and/or one or more blends of several fruits and vegetables may include all the fruit solids (including fiber) of the fruit(s) and/or vegetable(s). Though any one or more fruit powders may be used to provide powdered soluble fruit fiber to the powdered nutritional composition, exemplary embodiments of particular fruit powders that can provide powdered soluble fruit fiber include powders of apple, orange, pumpkin, strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, blueberry, any other berry, pineapple, banana, tangerine, peach, watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, any other melon, guava, and combinations thereof. Particularly suitable sources of powdered soluble fruit fiber include apple powder and pumpkin powder.

[0039] Powdered soluble fruit fiber may be present in the powdered nutritional compositions in an amount ranging from 0.5 to 20 mg per 1 gram of powdered nutritional composition.

Powdered soluble fruit fiber may be present in the powdered nutritional compositions in an amount of at least 0.5 mg, or at least 3 mg, or at least 6 mg, and up to 13 mg, or up to 16 mg, or up to 20 mg, per 1 gram of powdered nutritional composition. Powdered Insoluble Fruit Fiber

[0040] Powdered insoluble fruit fiber can be provided in the powdered nutritional

compositions as powders of one or more individual fruits, one or more blends of several fruits, and/or one or more blends of several fruits and vegetables. As mentioned herein, the powders of one or more individual fruits, one or more blends of several fruits, and/or one or more blends of several fruits and vegetables may include all the fruit solids (including fiber) of the fruit(s) and/or vegetable(s). Though any one or more fruit powders may be used to provide powdered insoluble fruit fiber to the powdered nutritional composition, exemplary embodiments of particular fruit powders that can provide powdered insoluble fruit fiber include powders of apple, orange, pumpkin, strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, blueberry, any other berry, pineapple, banana, tangerine, peach, watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, any other melon, guava, and combinations thereof. Particularly suitable sources of powdered insoluble fruit fiber include apple powder and pumpkin powder.

[0041] Powdered insoluble fruit fiber may be present in the powdered nutritional compositions in an amount ranging from 5 to 125 mg per 1 gram of powdered nutritional composition.

Powdered insoluble fruit fiber may be present in the powdered nutritional compositions in an amount of at least 5 mg, or at least 6 mg, or at least 7 mg, and up to 20 mg, or up to 35 mg, or up to 70 mg, or up to 125 mg, per 1 gram of powdered nutritional composition.

Powdered Soluble Vegetable Fiber

[0042] Powdered soluble vegetable fiber can be provided in the powdered nutritional compositions as powders of one or more individual vegetables, one or more blends of several vegetables, and/or one or more blends of several fruits and vegetables. The powders of one or more individual vegetables, one or more blends of several vegetables, and/or one or more blends of several fruits and vegetables may include all the vegetable solids (including fiber) of the fruit(s) and/or vegetable(s). Though any one or more vegetable powders may be used to provide powdered soluble vegetable fiber to the powdered nutritional compositions, exemplary embodiments of vegetable powders that can provide powdered soluble vegetable fiber include powders of carrot, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, celery, cabbage, beet, watercress, cucumber, zucchini, and combinations thereof. A particularly suitable source of powdered soluble vegetable fiber is carrot powder. [0043] Powdered soluble vegetable fiber may be present in the powdered nutritional compositions in an amount ranging from 1 to 25 mg per 1 gram of powdered nutritional composition. Powdered soluble vegetable fiber may be present in the powdered nutritional composition in an amount of at least 1 mg, or at least 3 mg, or at least 6 mg, or at least 9 mg, or at least 12 mg, or at least 15 mg, or at least 18 mg, and up to 25 mg, per 1 gram of powdered nutritional composition.

Powdered Insoluble Vegetable Fiber

[0044] Powdered insoluble vegetable fiber can be provided in the powdered nutritional compositions as powders of one or more individual vegetables, one or more blends of several vegetables, and/or one or more blends of several fruits and vegetables. As discussed herein, the powders of one or more individual vegetables, one or more blends of several vegetables, and/or one or more blends of several fruits and vegetables may include all the vegetable solids (including fiber) of the fruit(s) and/or vegetable(s). Though any one or more vegetable powders may be used to provide powdered insoluble vegetable fiber to the powdered nutritional composition, exemplary embodiments of particular vegetable powders that can provide powdered insoluble vegetable fiber include powders of carrot, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, celery, cabbage, beet, watercress, cucumber, zucchini, and combinations thereof. A particularly suitable source of powdered insoluble vegetable fiber is carrot powder.

[0045] Powdered insoluble vegetable fiber may be present in the powdered nutritional compositions in an amount ranging from 5 to 50 mg per 1 gram of powdered nutritional composition. Powdered insoluble vegetable fiber may be present in the powdered nutritional composition in an amount of at least 5 mg, or at least 9 mg, or at least 12 mg, or at least 15 mg, or at least 18 mg, and up to 25 mg, or up to 30 mg, or up to 35 mg, or up to 40 mg, or up to 50 mg, per 1 gram of powdered nutritional composition.

[0046] Exemplary embodiments of blends of several fruits and vegetables are available from Naturex Inc., South Hackensack, New Jersey, the several fruits and vegetables providing all or portions of each of the powdered soluble fruit fibers, powdered insoluble fruit fibers, powdered soluble vegetable fibers, and powdered insoluble vegetable fibers. Carbohydrate

[0047] In addition to the ingredients described above, the powdered nutritional compositions may further comprise any carbohydrates or sources thereof that are suitable for use in an oral nutritional product and are compatible with the elements and features of such compositions. When present in the powdered nutritional compositions, carbohydrate concentrations may range, for example, from about 0.1% to about 70%. When present in the powdered nutritional compositions, carbohydrate concentrations may be at least about 0.1%, or at least about 1%, or at least about 5%, or at least about 8%, or at least about 10%, or at least about 12%, or at least about 15%), or at least about 18%, or at least about 20%>, and up to about 25%, or up to about 30%), or up to about 40%>, or up to about 50%>, or up to about 70%>, by weight of the powdered nutritional composition.

[0048] Non-limiting examples of suitable carbohydrates or sources thereof for use in the nutritional products described herein include maltodextrin (e.g. , maltodextrin having a dextrose equivalent ("DE") number ranging from 4 to 20), corn maltodextrin, sucromalt, maltitol powder, glycerine, glucose polymers, corn syrup, corn syrup solids (e.g., corn syrup solids having a DE number of at least 21), modified starches, resistant starches, rice-derived carbohydrates (e.g., tapioca dextrin), isomaltulose, sucrose, extra fine white sugar, glucose, fructose, lactose, high fructose corn syrup, honey, sugar alcohols (e.g. , maltitol, erythritol, sorbitol), artificial sweeteners (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, stevia), fructooligosaccharides, soy fiber, corn fiber, guar gum, konjac flour, polydextrose, Fibersol, and combinations thereof.

[0049] In certain embodiments, the powdered nutritional composition comprises from 1% to 50%) by weight fructooligosaccharides. In certain embodiments, the powdered nutritional composition comprises at least 1%, or at least 5%, or at least 10%, or at least 15%, and up to 25%), or up to 30%), or up to 40%, or up to 50% by weight fructooligosaccharides.

Fat

[0050] In addition to the ingredients described above, the powdered nutritional compositions may further comprise fat or a source thereof, most typically as emulsified fat, concentrations of which may range from about 0.1% to about 40% by weight of the powdered nutritional composition. The powdered nutritional compositions may comprise fat or a source thereof, which may be emulsified fat, at a concentration of at least about 0.1%, or at least about 0.5%, or at least about 1%, or at least about 2%, or at least about 4%, and up to about 5%, or up to about 10%), or up to about 15%, or up to about 20%, or up to about 25%, or up to about 30%, or up to about 40%, by weight of the powdered nutritional composition. In some embodiments, the fat concentration may be from about 0.5% to about 4.0%, from about 0.5% to about 3.0%, from about 0.5%) to about 2.0%, from about 0.5% to about 1.5%, from about 0.5% to about 1.0%, from about 0.75%) to about 1.0%, from about 0.8% to about 1.0%, or from about 0.85% to about 0.95% by weight of the powdered nutritional composition. In some embodiments, the fat is present in an amount of about 0.9% by weight of the powdered nutritional composition.

[0051] Suitable sources of fat for use herein include any fat or fat source that is suitable for use in an oral nutritional product and is compatible with the elements and features of such products. Preferably, but not necessarily, a fat source will provide at least one long chain polyunsaturated acid ("LC-PUFA") such as docosahexanoic acid ("DHA"), arachidonic acid ("ARA"), conjugated linoleic acid ("CLA"), gamma linoleic acid ("GLA"), and/or eicosapentaenoic acid ("EPA"). These LC-PUFAs may be optionally added to the powdered nutritional compositions outside of, or in addition to, a fat source.

[0052] Non-limiting examples of suitable fats or sources thereof for use in the powdered nutritional compositions described herein include coconut oil, fractionated coconut oil, soy oil, corn oil, olive oil, safflower oil, high oleic safflower oil, medium chain triglycerides ("MCT oil"), sunflower oil, high oleic sunflower oil, palm and palm kernel oils, palm olein, canola oil, marine oils, cottonseed oils, borage oil, fish oil, structured lipids, rice bran oil, and combinations thereof.

Carotenoids

[0053] In certain embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions further comprise one or more cartenoids. Some desirable carotenoids include lutein, lycopene, alpha-carotene, beta- carotene, zeaxanthin, and cryptoxanthin, with lutein being particularly desirable.

[0054] The term "lutein" as used herein, unless otherwise specified, refers to one or more of free lutein, lutein esters, lutein salts, or other lutein derivatives or related structures as described or otherwise suggested herein. Lutein or lutein sources suitable for use in the nutritional compositions of the present disclosure include free lutein as well as esters, salts, or other derivatives or related structures thereof, including those that conform to the formula:

[0055] The above formula includes the general structure of lutein and related derivatives or structures. Free lutein, for example, corresponds to the formula wherein Ri and R₂ are both hydrogen, and includes cis and trans isomers thereof as well as salts thereof, e.g. , sodium and potassium salts.

[0056] Lutein esters suitable for use herein include any lutein ester of the above formula wherein Ri and R₂ are the same or different, and are nutritionally acceptable monovalent salts, hydrogen, or an acyl residue of a carboxylic acid. Suitable lutein esters include, as well, both cis and trans isomers, with trans isomers being preferred (i.e., trans-lute ). The Ri and R₂ moieties are residues of a saturated or unsaturated Ci to C₂₂ fatty carboxylic acid, non-limiting examples of which include formic, acetic, propionic, butyric, valeric, caproic, caprylic, capric, lauric, myristic, palmitic, stearic, and oleic acids.

[0057] Lutein for use herein includes any natural or synthetic source that is known for or is otherwise an acceptable source for use in oral nutritional compositions. Lutein sources can be provided as individual ingredients or in any combination with other materials or sources, including sources such as multivitamin premixes, mixed carotenoid premixes, pure lutein sources, and inherent lutein from other fat or oil components in the powdered nutritional composition. The lutein concentrations and ratios as described herein are calculated based upon added and inherent lutein sources. In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions of the present disclosure comprise at least 25%, and preferably from about 50%> to about 95%, by weight of total lutein as added lutein, the remainder being inherent lutein that accompanies added fats and oils.

[0058] In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions comprise at least one of lutein, lycopene, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene to provide a total amount of carotenoid of from about 0.1 μ to about 5 mg per about 16 g of powdered nutritional composition. In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions comprise lutein in an amount of from about 0.1 μg to about 5 mg, per about 16 g of powdered nutritional composition.

[0059] In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions comprise lycopene in an amount of from about 0.2 μg to about 3 mg. In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions comprise lycopene in an amount of at least 0.2 μg, or at least 2 μg, or at least or at least 4 μg, or at least 1 mg, and up to about 3mg, or up to 2 mg, per about 16 g of powdered nutritional composition. In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions comprise from about 2 μg to about 3 mg, from about 2 μg to about 400 μg, from about 0.9 mg to about 1.5 mg, from about 0.2 μg to about 1.2 mg, from about 0.2 μg to about 3.1 μg, from about 0.2 μg to about 1.8 μg, or from about 4.3 μg to about 1.2 mg, all per about 16 g of powdered nutritional composition.

[0060] In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions comprise zeaxathin in an amount of from about 0.2 μg to about 3 mg, per about 16 g of powdered nutritional composition. In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions comprise zeaxanthin in an amount of at least about 0.2 μg, and up to about 500 μg, or up to about 1 mg, or up to about 2 mg, or up to about 3 mg, all per about 16 g of powdered nutritional composition.

[0061] In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions comprise beta-carotene in an amount of from about 0.1 μg to about 3 mg, per about 16 g of powdered nutritional composition. In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions comprise at least about 0.1 μg, or at least about 1 μg, or at least about 10 μg, or at least about 100 μg, or at least about 200 μg, and up to about 1 mg, or up to about 2 mg, or up to about 3 mg, per about 16 g of powdered nutritional composition.

[0062] It should be understood that any combination of these amounts of lutein, lycopene, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene can be included in the powdered nutritional compositions of the present disclosure. Optionally, other carotenoids may be included in the powdered nutritional compositions as described herein. Any one or all of the carotenoids included in the powdered nutritional compositions described herein may be from a natural source or artificially

synthesized. [0063] Non-limiting examples of suitable lutein sources for use herein include FloraGLO® Crystalline Lutein, available from Kemin Foods, Des Moines, Iowa, USA; and Xangold ® Lutein Esters provided by Cognis, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.

Vitamin E / Tocopherol

[0064] Vitamin E is an essential, lipid-soluble compound that exhibits antioxidant activity. As previously mentioned, the term "Vitamin E" refers to a group of eight compounds that include the four tocopherols (alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocopherols), the

corresponding tocotrienols, stereoisomers of the foregoing, salts thereof, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. The alpha-tocopherols exhibit the most biological activity and

accumulation in mammalian tissues. Common natural sources of Vitamin E (e.g., RR -a- tocopherol, d-a-tocopherol) include vegetable oils, green leafy vegetables, and nuts. There is considerable evidence to support differential bioavailability and bioactivity between natural and synthetic forms of Vitamin E. The synthetic form of Vitamin E (e.g., all-rac-a-tocopherol acetate, dl-a-tocopherol) is the form of Vitamin E that is most often included in Vitamin E supplements and used in the dietary fortification of foods.

[0065] Studies have indicated that Vitamin E supplementation promotes bioactivity that is specific to muscle tissue. Accordingly, increasing Vitamin E levels in muscle tissue can promote improvements in body composition and muscle function by reducing oxidative stress that would otherwise promote muscle atrophy, inhibiting muscle protein degradation, promoting muscle membrane integrity and repair, and combinations thereof.

[0066] In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions comprise total combined tocopherols in an amount of from about 0.5 mg to about 15 mg, per about 16 g of powdered nutritional composition. In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions comprise total combined tocopherols in an amount of at least about 0.5 mg, or at least about 1 mg, or at least about 2 mg, or at least about 3 mg, or at least about 4 mg, or at least about 5 mg, and up to about 7 mg, or up to about 8 mg, or up to about 9 mg, or up to about 10 mg, or up to about 12 mg, or up to about 15 mg, per about 16 g of powdered nutritional composition. Reconstitutable Milk

[0067] The powdered nutritional compositions may further comprise reconstitutable milk. When comprising reconstitutable milk, the powdered nutritional composition typically only requires the addition of an appropriate amount of water and stirring, thereby generating the final consumable liquid nutritional composition. The reconstitutable milk may be present in the powdered nutritional composition in an amount ranging from 400 to 900 mg per 1 g of powdered nutritional composition. The reconstitutable milk may be present in the powdered nutritional composition in an amount of at least 400 mg, or 500 mg, and up to about 700 mg, or up to about 900 mg, per 1 g of powdered nutritional composition.

Other Optional Ingredients

[0068] The powdered nutritional compositions described herein may further comprise other optional ingredients that may modify the physical, chemical, functional, hedonic, and/or processing characteristics of the products or serve as pharmaceutical or additional nutritional components when used in the targeted population. Many such optional ingredients are known or otherwise suitable for use in other powdered nutritional compositions and may also be used in the powdered nutritional compositions described herein, provided that such optional ingredients are safe and effective for oral administration and are compatible with the essential and other ingredients in the selected product form.

[0069] Non-limiting examples of such optional ingredients include preservatives, antioxidants, emulsifying agents, buffers, pharmaceutical actives, additional nutrients as described herein, colorants, flavors, thickeners (e.g., induced viscosity fibers), additional stabilizers, cereal beta- glucans (barley beta-glucan), probiotics (e.g., Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 (DR20)), prebiotics (fructooligosaccharides, galactooligosaccharides, inulin, oligofructose), Salacia extract, and so forth.

[0070] A flowing agent or anti-caking agent may be included in some embodiments of the powdered nutritional compositions, or with any ingredient thereof disclosed herein, to retard clumping or caking of a powdered composition over time and to make the powdered composition flow easily from its container. Any known flowing or anti-caking agents that are known or otherwise suitable for use in a nutritional powder or similar product form are suitable for use herein, non-limiting examples of which include tricalcium phosphate, silicates, and combinations thereof. The concentration of the flowing agent or anti-caking agent in certain embodiments of the nutritional compositions varies depending upon the product form, the other selected ingredients, the desired flow properties, and so forth, but most typically range from about 0.1% to about 4% or from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight of the powdered nutritional composition.

[0071] In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions may comprise a flavoring agent. For example, the powdered nutritional compositions can comprise up to 2% by weight of a flavoring agent. Suitable flavoring agents for use with the exemplary embodiments of the powdered nutritional composition include, for example, vanilla, cocoa, vanillin, salt, coffee, chocolate flavoring, berry flavors, and fruit flavors, acids (lactic, malic, etc.), caramel, mint, natural and/or artificial sweeteners, sodium sources such as sodium chloride, hydrocolloids, and combinations thereof.

[0072] In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions may further comprise vitamins or related nutrients, non-limiting examples of which include Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Vitamin D2, Vitamin D3, Vitamin A palmitate, Vitamin C palmitate (ascorbyl palmitate), Vitamin K, thiamine, riboflavin, pyridoxine, Vitamin B12, niacin, folic acid, pantothenic acid, biotin, Vitamin C, choline, inositol, salts and derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof.

[0073] In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions may further comprise minerals, non-limiting examples of which include calcium, selenium, potassium, iodine, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, manganese, copper, sodium, molybdenum, chromium, chloride, and combinations thereof.

[0074] In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions may comprise a stabilizer. Any stabilizer that is known or otherwise suitable for use in a powdered nutritional composition is also suitable for use herein, some non-limiting examples of which include gums such as xanthan gum. In certain embodiments, the stabilizer may represent from about 0.1% to about 5% by weight of the powdered nutritional composition. In certain embodiments, the stabilizer may represent at least about 0.1 %, or at least about 0.5%>, or at least about 0.7%>, and up to about 1.5%), or up to about 3%, or up to about 5%, by weight of the powdered nutritional composition. [0075] In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions optionally include one or more masking agents to reduce or otherwise obscure the development of any residual bitter flavors and after taste in the powdered nutritional compositions over time. Suitable masking agents include natural and artificial sweeteners; sodium sources such as sodium chloride;

hydrocolloids such as guar gum, xanthan gum, carrageenan, gellan gum, other suitable gums; emulsifiers; encapsulating agents such as starches and modified starch products; and

combinations thereof. The amount of masking agent in certain embodiments of the nutritional compositions may vary depending upon the particular masking agent selected, other ingredients in the formulation, and other formulation or product target variables. Such amounts, however, most typically range from 0.001% to 25% by weight of the powdered nutritional composition. In some embodiments, the masking agent may be present in the powdered nutritional composition at a concentration of at least about 0.001%, or at least about 0.01%, or at least about 0.1%, up to about 2%>, or up to about 5%, or up to about 10%>, or up to about 25%, by weight of the powdered nutritional composition.

[0076] In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions may include fish oil masking agents to mask "fishy" type flavors/aroma notes that commonly occur with the presence of fish/marine oil. For example, in some embodiments, the powdered nutritional composition may include the lipid-amylose complex described herein. Specifically, the combination of monoglycerides and low DE glucose polymers, such as DE-1 maltodextrin, form a lipid-amylose complex that can bind to oxidation products such as the fatty acid chain of aldehydes or ketones formed during oxidation of marine oils.

Methods of Manufacture

[0077] The powdered nutritional compositions for use herein may be manufactured by any known or otherwise suitable method for making powdered nutritional compositions. The ingredients of the powdered nutritional compositions can be blended by, for example, a ribbon blender, a plow blender, or any other known apparatus or system used for blending dry powdered ingredients. Alternately or in combination, the ingredients of the powdered nutritional compositions can be spray dried using suitable spray drying techniques and conditions. When utilized, the spray drying may be "normal" (i.e., heated) spray drying or "cold" (i.e., unheated or cooled) spray drying. Regardless of the method utilized, in some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions may be spray lecithinated or agglomerated. In some embodiments, the powdered nutritional compositions may be extruded using one or more suitable single screw or multiple screw extruders. Such methods are well known in the nutrition formulation and manufacturing arts.

Methods of Use

[0078] The powdered nutritional compositions described herein comprise a fruit fiber component and a vegetable fiber component, and may be blended with one or more additional powdered ingredients. In some instances, the powdered nutritional compositions are blended with a fluid dairy product in an amount sufficient to provide the beneficial effects intended to be realized by consuming the powdered nutritional compositions, thereby forming enhanced fluid dairy products. The blending of a specific powdered nutritional composition and a specific fluid dairy product can be carried out by stirring the ingredients together in an appropriate container using a simple kitchen utensil such as a spoon.

[0079] The enhanced fluid dairy product is then consumed by a subject, typically a human being. The human being may be any age. The embodiments of the present disclosure may be particularly suited for human beings from two to 18 years old. In some embodiments, the human being is a child. More specifically, the human being may be at least two years old, or at least three years old, or at least four years old, or at least five years old, and so forth up to any conceivable age. The powdered nutritional composition may increase the likelihood that the subject consumes fruit and vegetable fiber as part of a daily diet as opposed to if the powdered nutritional composition was unavailable for consumption. It is noted that the powdered nutritional compositions of the present invention are added to fluid dairy products which are typically readily consumed by human beings, particularly those aged 2 to 18 years old. In this manner, the present invention provides a route to increase the consumption of fruit and vegetables.

[0080] To realize the benefits provided by the nutritional compositions, the powdered nutritional compositions containing fruit and vegetable fibers may be utilized on a daily or semi- daily basis for a time period of at least one week, at least two weeks, at least three weeks, at least one month, at least two months, at least three months, at least six months, or at least one year, as well as any effective length of time.

EXAMPLES

[0081] The following examples illustrate exemplary embodiments and features of the powdered nutritional compositions of the present disclosure. The examples are given solely for the purpose of illustration and are not to be construed as limiting the present disclosure, as many variations thereof are possible and encompassed by the general inventive concepts. All exemplified amounts are weight percentages based upon the total weight of the composition, unless otherwise specified.

[0082] The exemplified powdered nutritional compositions may be prepared in accordance with manufacturing methods well known in the nutrition industry for preparing powdered nutritional compositions. For example, a powdered nutritional composition is made by dry- blending all of the following powdered ingredients in a ribbon or plow blender. The amount of powdered nutritional composition can be as little as, for example, 10 g to as much as 50 g per 8 fl oz of milk (237 ml or 250 g, or other serving amount of any fluid dairy product) based on the amount of fruit and vegetable fibers, flavoring agent, and other carbohydrates (sugar and maltodextrins) that are present in the powdered nutritional composition. The fruit and vegetable servings can be more than 1/8 cup serving of fruit and 1/8 cup serving of vegetable (i.e., 1/4 cup serving of combined fruit and vegetable) such as up to 5 cups serving of fruit and vegetable. Exemplary embodiments of ½ serving of combined fruit and vegetable having a strawberry, a wildberry, and a chocolate flavoring, respectively, are detailed in Table 1.

Table 1: Exemplary embodiments of powdered nutritional compositions of the present disclosure.

phosphate

Magnesium phosphate 35.71 35.71 35.71

Docosahexanoic acid

20.05 20.05 20.05 (DHA) powder (AMS)

Vitamin/Mineral premix (A,

D, E, C, iodine, iron, lutein) 6.89 6.89 6.89 FT

Sucralose powder 1.25 1.25 1.25

Vanilla flavoring agent 3.13 3.13 6.27

Sucrose (filler) 128.43 128.43 36.34

Cocoa powder N/A N/A 156.64

Strawberry flavoring agent 37.59 22.55 N/A

Strawberry/Raspberry/Peach

30.07 N/A N/A flavoring agent

Red colorant 0.15 0.15 N/A

Raspberry powder N/A 30.07 N/A

Forestberry powder N/A 15.04 N/A

Carrot powder 144.09 144.09 144.11

Pumpkin powder 31.32 31.32 31.33

Apple powder 194.21 194.21 194.24

Fruit & vegetable blend

60.77 60.77 60.78 (Naturex)

Total 1000 1000 1000

Target nutrient profiles for the powdered nutritional compositions are detailed Table 2: Target nutrient profiles common to the powdered nutritional compositions of Table 1, with all values listed per serving.

[0084] Further exemplary embodiments are described in Table 3.

Table 3: Further exemplary embodiments of powdered nutritional compositions of the present disclosure.

Fructooligosaccharides 111.4 111.4 115.4 116.6

Potassium citrate (fine) 35.63 20.26 36.91 21.21

Tricalcium phosphate 18.93 18.93 19.61 19.82

Magnesium phosphate 21.07 21.07 21.82 22.05

Docosahexanoic acid

11.74 11.74 0 0 (DHA) powder

Vitamin/Mineral premix

(A, D, E, C, iodine, iron, 4.44 4.44 4.60 4.64 lutein) FT

Sucralose powder 0.35 0.35 0.36 0.37

Vanilla flavoring agent

0 0.936 0 0.98 (ethyl vanillin)

Sucrose (extra fine) 233.0 233.0 241.3 243.9

Cocoa powder 0 140.09 0 146.61

Natural and artificial

0 4.68 0 4.90 chocolate flavor

Artificial flavor

0 0 0 0.98 (duraneol)

Strawberry flavoring

14.00 0 14.50 0 agent

Artificial cherry flavor 0 0 1.93 0

Red colorant (FD&C Red

0.112 0 0.116 0 3)

Maltodextrin 123.3 0 127.7 0

Carrot powder 42.6 42.6 44.1 44.6

Apple powder 165.6 165.6 171.5 173.3

Total 800 775.2 800 800

[0085] To the extent that the terms "include," "includes," or "including" are used in the specification or the claims, they are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising" as that term is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Furthermore, to the extent that the term "or" is employed (e.g., A or B), it is intended to mean "A or B or both A and B." When the applicants intend to indicate "only A or B but not both," then the term "only A or B but not both" will be employed. Thus, use of the term "or" herein is the inclusive, and not the exclusive use. Also, to the extent that the terms "in" or "into" are used in the specification or the claims, it is intended to additionally mean "on" or "onto." Furthermore, to the extent that the term "connect" is used in the specification or the claims, it is intended to mean not only "directly connected to," but also "indirectly connected to" such as connected through another component or components. In the present disclosure, the words "a" or "an" are to be taken to include both the singular and the plural. Conversely, any reference to plural items shall, where appropriate, include the singular.

[0086] All percentages, parts, and ratios as used herein are by weight of the total composition, unless otherwise specified. All such weights as they pertain to listed ingredients are based on the active level and, therefore, do not include solvents or by-products that may be included in commercially available materials, unless otherwise specified.

[0087] All ranges and parameters, including but not limited to percentages, parts, and ratios, disclosed herein are understood to encompass any and all sub-ranges assumed and subsumed therein, and every number between the endpoints. For example, a stated range of "1 to 10" should be considered to include any and all subranges between (and inclusive of) the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10; that is, all subranges beginning with a minimum value of 1 or more (e.g., 1 to 6.1), and ending with a maximum value of 10 or less (e.g., 2.3 to 9.4, 3 to 8, 4 to 7), and finally to each number 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 contained within the range.

[0088] All combinations of method or process steps as used herein can be performed in any order, unless otherwise specified or clearly implied to the contrary by the context in which the referenced combination is made.

[0089] The powdered nutritional compositions may comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of the elements of the powdered nutritional compositions as described herein, as well as any additional or optional element described herein or otherwise useful in powdered nutritional composition applications. [0090] The general inventive concepts have been illustrated, at least in part, by describing various exemplary embodiments thereof. While these exemplary embodiments have been described in considerable detail, they are not intended to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Furthermore, in some embodiments, it may be possible to utilize the various inventive concepts in combination with one another (e.g. , one or more of the first, second, third, etc., exemplary embodiments may be utilized in combination with each other). Additionally, any particular element recited as relating to a particularly disclosed embodiment should be interpreted as available for use with all disclosed embodiments, unless incorporation of the particular element would be contradictory to the express terms of the embodiment. Additional advantages and modifications will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the disclosure, in its broader aspects, is not limited to the specific details presented therein, the representative apparatus, or the illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concepts.

Claims

1. A powdered nutritional composition, the composition comprising:

powdered soluble fruit fiber,

powdered insoluble fruit fiber,

powdered soluble vegetable fiber, and

powdered insoluble vegetable fiber,

wherein the powdered nutritional composition provides from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of fruit serving and from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of vegetable serving per serving of the powdered nutritional composition, and wherein the composition forms a dispersion when mixed with a dairy product.

2. A powdered nutritional composition, the composition comprising:

from 25 to 50 weight percent fruit and vegetable fibers selected from the group consisting of apple powder, carrot powder, pumpkin powder, and combinations thereof; and from 15 to 25 weight percent fructooligosaccarides;

wherein the powdered nutritional composition provides from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of fruit serving and from 1/8 to 1/2 cup of vegetable serving per serving of the powdered nutritional composition, and

wherein the composition forms dispersion when mixed with a dairy product.

3. A powdered nutritional composition, the composition comprising:

reconstitutable milk,

powdered soluble fruit fiber,

powdered insoluble fruit fiber,

powdered soluble vegetable fiber, and

powdered insoluble vegetable fiber,

wherein the composition forms dispersion when mixed with water.

4. The powdered nutritional composition claim 1 or 3, wherein the powdered soluble fruit fiber and the powdered insoluble fruit fiber comprises at least one fruit powder selected from the group consisting of: apple, orange, pumpkin, strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, blueberry, pineapple, banana, tangerine, peach, watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, guava, and combinations thereof.

5. The powdered nutritional composition claim 1 or 3, wherein the powdered soluble vegetable fiber and the powdered insoluble vegetable fiber are both derived from the same vegetable and comprise at least one vegetable powder selected from the group consisting of: carrot, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, celery, cabbage, beet, watercress, cucumber, zucchini, and combinations thereof.

6. The powdered nutritional composition of any of claims 1-3 further comprising at least one carotenoid.

7. The powdered nutritional composition of claim 6, wherein the at least one carotenoid is selected from the group consisting of: alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin, lutein, and combinations thereof.

8. The powdered nutritional composition of any of claims 1-3 further comprising at least one tocopherol.

9. The powdered nutritional composition of claim 8, wherein the at least one tocopherol is selected from the group consisting of: alpha-tocopherol, beta-tocopherol, delta-tocopherol, gamma-tocopherol, and combinations thereof.

10. The powdered nutritional composition of any of claims 1-3 further comprising lutein.

11. The powdered nutritional composition of any of claims 1-3 further comprising

docosahexanoic acid.

12. The powdered nutritional composition of any of claims 1-3 further comprising lecithin.

The powdered nutritional composition of any of claims 1-3 further comprising maltodextrin.

14. The powdered nutritional composition of claim 13, wherein the maltodextrin has a dextrose equivalent number ranging from 4 to 20.

15. The powdered nutritional composition of any of claims 1-3 further comprising at least one flavoring agent.

16. The powdered nutritional composition of claim 15, wherein the at least one flavoring agent is selected from the group consisting of: vanilla, cocoa, vanillin, salt, coffee, chocolate flavoring, berry flavors, and fruit flavors, caramel, mint, and combinations thereof.

17. The powdered nutritional composition of any of claims 1-3 further comprising a colorant.

18. The powdered nutritional composition of any of claims 1-3 further comprising at least one vitamin.

19. The powdered nutritional composition of claim 18, wherein the at least one vitamin is selected from the group consisting of: Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Vitamin D2, Vitamin D3, Vitamin A palmitate, Vitamin C palmitate (ascorbyl palmitate), Vitamin K, thiamine, riboflavin, pyridoxine, Vitamin B12, niacin, folic acid, pantothenic acid, biotin, Vitamin C, choline, inositol, salts and derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof.

20. The powdered nutritional composition of any of claims 1-3 further comprising at least one mineral.

21. The powdered nutritional composition of claim 20, wherein the at least one mineral is selected from the group consisting of: calcium, selenium, potassium, iodine, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, manganese, copper, sodium, molybdenum, chromium, chloride, and combinations thereof.

22. The powdered nutritional composition of any of claims 1-3, wherein the serving has a mass ranging from about 10 to about 50 g.

23. The powdered nutritional composition of any of claims 1-3, wherein the fluid dairy product is milk.

24. The powdered nutritional composition of any of claims 1-3, wherein the fluid dairy product is yogurt.

25. The powdered nutritional composition of any of claims 1-3, further comprising

phytonutrients present in whole fruit and vegetable powders.

26. The powdered nutritional composition of any of claims 1-3, further comprising

phytonutrients present in processed fruit and vegetable powders.

27. A powdered nutritional composition, the composition comprising:

powdered soluble fruit fiber,

powdered insoluble fruit fiber,

powdered soluble vegetable fiber, and

powdered insoluble vegetable fiber,

wherein the powdered nutritional composition provides from 1 - 24 g fruit solids and from 0.7 - 14 g of vegetable solids per 10 - 50 g of the powdered nutritional composition, and

wherein the composition forms a dispersion when mixed with a dairy product.

28. A powdered nutritional composition according to claim 27, the composition comprising:

from 25 to 50 weight percent fruit and vegetable fibers selected from the group consisting of apple powder, carrot powder, pumpkin powder, and combinations thereof; and from 15 to 25 weight percent fructooligosaccarides.

29. A powdered nutritional composition according to claim 27 or 28, the composition further comprising:

reconstitutable milk.

30. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the powdered soluble fruit fiber and the powdered insoluble fruit fiber are both derived from the same fruit and comprise at least one fruit powder selected from the group consisting of: apple, orange, pumpkin, strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, blueberry, pineapple, banana, tangerine, peach, watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, guava, and combinations thereof.

31. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 30, wherein the powdered soluble vegetable fiber and the powdered insoluble vegetable fiber are both derived from the same vegetable and comprise at least one vegetable powder selected from the group consisting of: carrot, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, celery, cabbage, beet, watercress, cucumber, zucchini, and combinations thereof.

32. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 31 further comprising at least one carotenoid.

33. The powdered nutritional composition of claim 32, wherein the at least one carotenoid is selected from the group consisting of: alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin, lutein, and combinations thereof.

34. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 33 further comprising at least one tocopherol.

35. The powdered nutritional composition of claim 34, wherein the at least one tocopherol is selected from the group consisting of: alpha-tocopherol, beta-tocopherol, delta-tocopherol, gamma-tocopherol, and combinations thereof.

36. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 35 further comprising lutein.

37. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 36 further comprising docosahexanoic acid.

38. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 37 further comprising lecithin.

39. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 38 further comprising maltodextrin.

40. The powdered nutritional composition of claim 39, wherein the maltodextrin has a dextrose equivalent number ranging from 4 to 20.

41. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 40 further comprising at least one flavoring agent.

42. The powdered nutritional composition of claim 41, wherein the at least one flavoring agent is selected from the group consisting of: vanilla, cocoa, vanillin, salt, coffee, chocolate flavoring, berry flavors, and fruit flavors, caramel, mint, and combinations thereof.

43. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 42 further comprising a colorant.

44. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 43 further comprising at least one vitamin.

45. The powdered nutritional composition of claim 44, wherein the at least one vitamin is selected from the group consisting of: Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Vitamin D2, Vitamin D3, Vitamin A palmitate, Vitamin C palmitate (ascorbyl palmitate), Vitamin K, thiamine, riboflavin, pyridoxine, Vitamin B12, niacin, folic acid, pantothenic acid, biotin, Vitamin C, choline, inositol, salts and derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof.

46. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 45 further comprising at least one mineral.

47. The powdered nutritional composition of claim 46, wherein the at least one mineral is selected from the group consisting of: calcium, selenium, potassium, iodine, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, manganese, copper, sodium, molybdenum, chromium, chloride, and combinations thereof.

48. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 47, wherein a serving of the powdered nutritional composition has a mass ranging from about 10 to about 50 g.

49. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 48, wherein the fluid dairy product is milk.

50. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 49, wherein the fluid dairy product is yogurt.

51. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 50, further comprising phytonutrients present in whole fruit and vegetable powders.

52. The powdered nutritional composition according to any one of claims 27 to 51, further comprising phytonutrients present in processed fruit and vegetable powders.

53. A liquid nutritional composition comprising a powdered nutritional composition as defined in any one of claims 27 to 52 and milk.

54. A process for preparing a liquid nutritional composition, which process comprises dispersing a powdered nutritional composition as defined in any one of claims 27 to 52 in milk.

55. A process for preparing a liquid nutritional composition, which process comprises dispersing a powdered nutritional composition as defined in any one of claims 27 to 52 in water.