Function has added a new dynamic to the beverage landscape, which has allowed beverage-makers to explore new ingredients, package sizes and innovative products. Globally, functional claims remained a relatively small group for food and beverage launches from January to May 2012, according to Chicago-based Mintel’s Global New Products Database webinar titled “Functional Foods.” However, the market research firm also reports that, despite a dip in 2010, the North America region currently has the highest percent of product introductions with functional claims.
With these new product introductions, contract manufacturers are tasked with helping beverage-makers fill that market need.