R&D Features

RSS

The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) returned to McCormick Place for the IFT FIRST: Annual Event & Expo where exhibitors were presented with an array of ingredient samples, interactive demos and product tastings.

As consumers become increasingly aware of their sugar intake, beverage-makers must deliver drinks that are sweet with natural sweeteners.

As more consumers are recognizing the link between immune-health and overall health, experts note that the demand for functional beverages that support immunity has never been higher.

With growing awareness of the connections between individual health and that of nature or the environment, such interests are prompting more consumers to seek out clean label and non-GMO beverages.

In today’s beverage development, formulators are layering flavors to elevate the next generation of drinks.

As more and more consumers learn about the gut microbiome and its role in overall health and wellness, experts highlight how incorporating fiber and biotic solutions can help beverage-makers meet consumers’ various need states.

As physical fitness remains top of mind for those seeking healthier lifestyles, experts note that today’s consumers not only are turning to sports drinks to deliver on recovery, but also seek such drinks to help meet overall wellness goals.

With more consumers seeking reduced-sugar or sugar-free drinks, experts note that beverage-makers are turning to sweeteners such as stevia, erythritol, monk fruit and allulose to deliver products without sacrificing on taste.

Given the demand for ingredients that support cognitive health and energy enhancement, ingredient suppliers caution that formulation is more complicated than simply adding into the formula.

With consumers’ brains in overdrive, many are turning to beverages that support their mental well-being.