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As the functional and flavorful capabilities of domestic and exotic fruits continue to be experimented with, a healthy mix of traditional and emerging combinations are on the horizon for beverages, experts note.

Historically an upcycled byproduct within the coffee production process, coffee fruit’s sustainable characteristics and health benefits could present opportunities in beverage development.

The functional properties of antioxidants and superfoods are gaining traction lately as consumer interest in health and wellness grows as the result of the pandemic.

Although consumers were indicating high stress levels before, the emergence of the pandemic has exacerbated the issue, prompting beverage-makers to turn to a collection of ingredients to help reduce stress hormones.

As consumers “take control of their weight,” beverage-makers are employing a diverse group of ingredients such as functional offerings and new age sweeteners.

Consumers’ increased focus on health and performance has been exacerbated by the pandemic’s influence on immunity-focused consumers. Meanwhile, beverage-makers are innovating ways to fortify beverages in ways that also deliver on taste and texture.

In new beverage development, the trend of manufacturing with clean-label ingredients has sparked the creation of a new generation of color concepts.

As consumers place greater emphasis on health and wellness, performance beverages are adding more to their arsenal. From lower sugar, to better flavor and increased functionality, consumers demand that performance beverages outperform their former selves.

Low- and no-sugar beverages continue to resonate with health-minded consumers, prompting beverage-makers to seek new age sweeteners for today’s beverages.