Carb blocker: Singapore retailer Xndo debuts sugar-free functional powder for weight management

The low-calorie supplement was first launched in 2007 in Xndo’s stores, as a carbohydrate blocking supplement made with white kidney bean extract, bilberry and grape skin extract and inulin.

This new formula launched in December 2021 now uses a natural sweetener steviol glycoside, where the previous formula used sucralose.

The launch of Xcarb CarbCut comes at a time where demand for weight management products are increasing in Singapore, influenced by the predominantly carbohydrate heavy Asian diet and COVID-19-induced sedentary lifestyle.

“In Asia and Singapore, the population’s main diet consists of high carbohydrate staples such as white rice, noodles, breads and fast foods. Coupled with unhealthy lifestyle practices such as lack of exercise and frequent alcohol intake, this may lead to diseases such as the high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood sugar levels​,” said Jasmine Teo, marketing manager at Xndo.

She added: “When COVID-19 hit two years ago, work-from-home arrangements and restrictions to outdoor activities implemented became the ‘new norm’, further increasing the unhealthy and sedentary lifestyle practices such as ordering food deliveries and having limited physical activities while being indoors​.

“All of these factors contribute to the increasing demand for weight management supplements in Singapore and Asia (over the last two years)​.”

Carb blocker​

In the newly launched Xcarb CarbCut, the white kidney bean extract helps to block amylase, an enzyme which converts carbohydrates into sugar, reducing carbohydrate and starch absorption from foods into the body.

The bilberry and grape skin extract provides antioxidant protection and curbs glucose spikes to prevent food coma and promote satiety to reduce the feeling of hunger, which in turns, suppresses appetite. Another key ingredient, inulin is a prebiotic that promotes friendly intestinal bacteria growth for a healthy digestive system.

Xcarb CarbCut is suitable for anyone above 18 years old, “someone who enjoys high-carb diet, but wishes to block carbohydrate absorption in order to achieve a healthier body​,” Teo said.

Unlike other carb-blocking supplements that typically come in pill, capsule or tablet formats, Xcarb CarbCut is sold as a powder that is dissolvable in water or soda water, and comes in a raspberry grape flavour.

This makes it a good alternative to soft drinks and bubble teas for its low-calorie, sugar-free and carbohydrate-blocking properties.

Xndo recommends it is best taken before or during a high-carbohydrate meal to reduce carbohydrate absorption.

“We ​try to promote a sustainable weight management lifestyle, and educate consumers that they don’t have to starve to lose weight, just portion control and supplementation is sufficient​.”

2022 developments​

In Singapore, Xcarb CarbCut is sold on Xndo’s online store, Xndo’s retail outlets, e-commerce platforms as well as several GNC stores.

Xndo is a subsidiary of ONI Global Group, headquartered in Singapore. ONI Global Group is the sole franchisee for GNC in Singapore and Philippines.

Xndo makes a range of products including ready-to-eat meals, functional drinks and supplements to aid in weight management and overall health, which are also distributed in major pharmacies, health stores and online channels in Malaysia, Philippines, Mexico, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Myanmar and Cambodia.

It is looking to distributing to Taiwan, Brunei, and more Middle Eastern countries soon.

In Q1 2022, Xndo is launching several new products including an apple cider vinegar gummy, and a bloating prevention jelly.

In the second half of 2022, it is looking to introduce new flavours for the ready-to-eat meal line.