With the emergence of bottled water as the No. 1 most-consumed beverage and the growth of better-for-you products like cold-pressed juices and ready-to-drink teas, it’s clear that many consumers are becoming more aware of their everyday health. In line with this trend, consumers have become more aware of the importance of supporting their immune systems on a consistent basis as a way to prevent illness before it happens.
“It’s no secret that consumers are turning to a more proactive approach to their health and wellness, and they are turning to functional beverages to do so,” says Donald Cox, research and development director for Wellmune at Beloit, Wis.-based Kerry. “For example, according to a GlobalData survey (2014), 60 percent say they actively use food and beverages to improve their health, and 30 percent consume food and beverages that deliver a particular benefit at least once a week. This progressive approach to health and wellness is also bringing long-term immune health to the forefront of consumer concerns.”