Dual-purpose chocolate bar with psychobiotics

MB “NutriHack” is implementing the project “Dual-purpose chocolate bar with psychobiotics”, (No. 02-057-K 0167), co-financed by the European Union funds and/or the Economic Recovery and Resilience Instrument for 2021–2027 and the State Budget of the Republic of Lithuania. The project value is EUR 188,264.70, of which EUR 132,314.63 is EU support. The project is co-financed by the European Union.

The project will contribute to improving mental health by creating an innovative psychobiotic chocolate – a functional food product that will help reduce stress, improve mood and enhance cognitive abilities. This chocolate is developed based on advanced biotechnology and the latest scientific research, with the aim of offering an effective, easy-to-use and enjoyable product for civilians and soldiers.

The target groups of the project are Lithuanian and NATO soldiers and civilians, including athletes, students, professionals in various fields who face psychological stress, anxiety or cognitive fatigue on a daily basis. For soldiers, this product will help improve mental health, increase stress resistance and maintain cognitive functions even in extreme conditions. Meanwhile, for civilians, it will provide a means to more effectively manage stress, improve concentration and overall well-being.

There is currently a lack of scientifically based, easy-to-use products on the market to support mental health, both for soldiers and civilians. The project will directly address this need by providing an innovative consumer solution.

The following main activities will be implemented during the project:

• Conducted scientific research, as provided for in the R&D business plan, in order to create a basis for the development of an innovative product;

• Experimental development activities were implemented, including product formula development and testing, resulting in a prototype of functional psychobiotic chocolate;

• Prepared documentation necessary for product preparation for the market – regulatory, safety, certification and market entry aspects.

The project will create a technological and scientific basis for an innovative functional food product that can be commercialized and applied in both the military and civilian sectors. This will not only improve the possibilities of supporting mental health, but also strengthen Lithuania's positions in the fields of health food and biotechnology. The project is co-financed by the European Union.