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There is no shortage of new product launches within the energy drink and shot sector. According to the Netherlands-based Innova Market Insights’ database, 124 energy drink and shot products launched in the United States in 2012. Of those product launches, energy/alertness was the top health positioning.

Although Valentine’s Day has passed, stevia is still “whispering sweet nothings” into consumers’ ears. As a natural, zero-calorie sweetener that’s sweeter than sugar, stevia is capitalizing on consumer demand for natural and healthy beverages.

 Doctors and nutritionists commonly stress the importance of a balanced diet and exercise for a healthy body, but more research is supporting the importance of a healthy brain. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, as many as 5 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, a form of dementia that involves parts of the brain that control thought, memory and language and affect a person’s ability to carry out daily activities.  

The classic fairy tale “Beauty and the Beast” teaches people that beauty comes from within. 

Healthy and natural attributes top the list of consumer needs and interests for beverages, according to respondents of Beverage Industry’s annual New Product Development Survey. 

 In the “Schoolhouse Rock!” episode “The Energy Blues,” an animated globe sang “Sometimes I think I’m runnin’ out of energy.”  

On a typical episode of culinary TV show “Masterchef,” home chefs work hard to create something delicious for renowned chefs Gordon Ramsay, Joe Bastianich and Graham Elliot. 

With its associations to lean muscle mass and satiety claims, whey protein continues to be an ingredient of interest to beverage manufacturers. 

 Health and wellness properties continue to drive flavor choices for many beverage formulators as health-conscious consumers are realizing that in addition to various health benefits, beverages also can be refreshing and flavorful. 

More beverages are being developed with functional health properties and lower calories.