Nestlé has published new clinical research indicating that certain NAD+ precursors can boost cellular energy levels and influence gut microbiome activity, as the food and nutrition group sharpens its focus on healthy longevity as a core growth platform.

The study, conducted by scientists at the Nestlé Institute of Health Sciences and published in the Nature Metabolism journal, compared three NAD+ precursors – nicotinamide riboside (NR), nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) and nicotinamide (Nam) – in healthy adults over 14 days.

Researchers found that supplementation with NR and NMN increased circulating NAD+ concentrations to a similar extent, while Nam did not.

The study also showed that NR and NMN interacted with gut microbiota, producing nicotinic acid and enhancing microbial activity, suggesting potential benefits beyond cellular energy metabolism.

NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a co-enzyme involved in energy production, DNA repair and other cellular processes.

Levels decline with age and have been associated with conditions including cognitive decline, muscle loss and cardiovascular dysfunction, making the pathway a target for the fast-growing longevity and healthy ageing segment.

Nestlé has identified healthy longevity as a strategic growth pillar and has been expanding its R&D capabilities in biotechnology and clinical research to accelerate innovation pipelines.

The findings could influence formulation strategies across the broader functional nutrition category, particularly as manufacturers explore next-generation bioactives positioned around cellular health rather than traditional vitamin and mineral fortification.

Industry analysts note that the longevity market – spanning supplements, functional beverages and medical nutrition – is attracting increasing investment as ageing populations in North America, Europe and parts of Asia drive demand for preventative health solutions.

For ingredient suppliers and contract manufacturers, that shift may translate into higher barriers to entry but also greater opportunities in clinically validated, premium-priced formulations targeting ageing consumers.

The study adds to a growing body of research examining NAD+ metabolism and underscores the convergence between food, supplements and biotech in the race to capture share in the global healthy-ageing economy.