Ingredient Spotlight

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The term “superfood” has been bandied about the beverage industry in reference to products containing nutrient-rich fruits like blueberries, pomegranate and cranberry, which increasingly have become popular with health-conscious consumers.

Used in a combination of flavors and drinks, citrus offers a refreshing, better-for-you enhancement in a wide variety of alcohol and non-alcohol products.

Today, beverage manufacturers are singing the praises of this versatile, functional vegetable that is being blended into cold-pressed juices, kombuchas, shrubs, lattes and even cocktails.

Hydrocolloids have shown how valuable they are in order to improve a beverage’s texture and mouthfeel, facilitate increased usage of protein, fiber and nutrients, and serve as “the glue” to provide consumers with the functional, healthy beverages they demand.

As all-natural and healthy ingredients remain a key trend in U.S. markets, beverage companies are recognizing the functionality and flexibility of using honey as an ingredient.

Beyond clean labels and plant-based claims, consumers are looking for nutritional supplementation, which nuts and grains are known to provide.

Consumers are looking for functional beverages that deliver benefits like immune health, vitamin support and promote overall well-being.

Consumers are becoming more aware of what they eat and drink, and they’re looking for products with ingredients they understand.

Hot or cold, bottled or bagged, tea is one of the most recognizable, widely consumed beverages in the world due to its healthy halo, premium options and flavor innovations.

Embracing the mass appeal of protein, beverage-makers and formulators are innovating new protein-fortified products in a variety of beverage categories for everyday consumers looking for a protein pick-me-up.