Jessica Jacobsen

As plant-based beverages have grown elevenfold since the turn of the century, discussions have percolated regarding the use of the term milk. Earlier this year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced draft recommendations for the industry on the naming of these products as well as recommendations on voluntary nutrient statements for their labeling.

In an effort to deliver safe, healthy fresh products, an increasing number of beverage-makers are turning to high-pressure processing (HPP) technology, experts note.

Beverage operations are juggling SKU proliferation, varying pack sizes and a changing workforce. Packing machinery is helping these manufacturers minimize disruptions to those operations.

Non-alcohol beer’s presence as substitute for its beer counterparts is helping the category retain consumers as some look to moderate their alcohol consumption.

Premiumization trends have allowed imported beers to resonate with consumers, but with inflation concerns and a potential recession, analysts express caution for the beer segment.

U.S. beer consumers also are showing their openness to change as they explore the beyond beer segments, including hard teas.

The U.S. beer market is experiencing dissecting storylines as portions of the category thrive while others are adapting to changing consumer tastes. Domestic beers remain challenged, but see a boost from super-premium brands.

For the U.S. craft beer market, the difference between retail performance and on-premise sales illustrates how the recovery that craft beer has experienced since the pandemic remains nuanced.

Although it might be a niche segment in the beer market, hard ciders have found favor with consumers, particularly among regional brands.