Ingredient Spotlight

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As today’s big mover in the protein-fortified beverage space is plant-based products, experts note that as consumer tastes and formulations have evolved, the marketplace has undergone tremendous shifts.

As coffee’s popularity surges, experts are attributing its “fitness” to new exciting flavors and formulations.

As consumers become more mindful of their food and beverage choices, experts note that domestic and exotic fruits are playing a vital role in this practice.

Classic flavors such as vanilla, chocolate and strawberry have enjoyed longevity throughout the beverage market even as new, exotic entrants look to challenge their status.

Over the past year, as many habits were disrupted, many new ones formed in their place. Due to the pandemic, drinking tea has become one of those new habits for many, as consumers seek functionality and immunity support from the teas they consume.

Whether it’s animal or plant based, protein usage in food and beverage products continues to climb. Research show that consumers increasingly are turning to plant-based proteins in the name of health.

Despite no legalization at the federal level, CBD ingredients in beverages are hitting the market fast. CBD sales in the United States grew 20% in 2020, but is a slowdown from 2019, states Euromonitor International.

The numbers don’t lie — botanical ingredients are gaining favor in the food and beverage market. Interest in botanicals is on the rise for various reasons, which has only been boosted by the COVID-19 pandemic, experts note.

As consumers have taken a greater interest in their immune system, beverage manufacturers are turning to staple ingredients like citrus to deliver the healthy halo that consumers desire.

The utilization of functional ingredients is prompting beverage-makers to source masking solutions so that the next generation of beverages deliver on function and taste.