The exhibiting companies included hundreds of established and emerging beverage brands.

Chr. Hansen was ranked as one of the top 100 most sustainable companies by Corporate Knights, while IFF received an “A” for Water Security for the first time on a list for climate change.

Beverage ingredient suppliers are collaborating with other companies as a way to expand their distribution reach and develop new products.

The on-trend sweetener is 70 percent as sweet as sugar and helps manufacturers reduce sucrose in their recipes and develop reduced-calorie food and beverages to meet growing consumer demand, the companies say.

The showcase featured innovative concepts produced by the company’s creative and applications team.

The new Center for Innovation comprises 3,600 square feet and features state-of-the-art application and flavor labs as well as customer conference and tasting rooms.

Beverage ingredient suppliers announced leadership appointments and expanded capabilities to determine consumer preferences based on sweetener type, calories and protein count.

Only 100 percent natural ingredients, sourced from trusted people and places, find their way into Code of Nature solutions, the company says.

This year’s show brought together more than 16,000 attendees and 1,300 exhibitors, who showcased their latest innovations. The following are some beverage-related highlights from the tradeshow.

Beverage ingredient suppliers have announced new expansions as well as several leadership appointments.