M&S Food has partnered with nutrition-science company ZOE to launch a new drink designed to support gut health.

The M&S Food x ZOE Gut Shot contains five billion live cultures from 14 strains of “friendly bacteria.”

In addition to the collaboration with ZOE, M&S has launched a separate ‘Good Gut’ range with over ten products including cereals, yoghurts and drinks.

The retailer said customers are more aware of the part the gut plays in their overall wellbeing and are seeking out products which can aid their digestion.

M&S added that searchers for ‘gut health’ have risen by 247 per cent since 2021, while gut health was named a top food trend last year by Kantar.

“We always ensure a healthy choice is a delicious choice, and we’re proud to be at the forefront of gut health innovation,” said Alex Freudmann, managing director of M&S Food. “The M&S Food x ZOE Gut Shot combines the nutrition science expertise of Zoe with the magic of M&S Food quality, innovation and product development.

“From the ZOE shot to our award-winning Plant Kitchen range and our newly launched High Protein range, we’re proud to be at the forefront of innovation in offering our customers healthier choices.”

In November, M&S revealed that profits jumped by 75 per cent for the 26 weeks to 30 September.

Food sales grew by 14.7 per cent, which M&S said was influenced by factors including by further investment in "trusted value" and ongoing quality upgrades of products in key customer missions including ‘Dinner for tonight’ and ‘Events’.

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