GHOST has found itself well-positioned to deliver on functional energy drinks that meet the lifestyle needs of today’s consumers.

Competition and shifting consumer behaviors can challenge any brand. In a recent Insights from NielsenIQ, the market research firm identifies trends that could help hard cider brands thrive in this evolving market.

Consumers expected to gravitate toward “less is more” regarding color, packaging and design, experts note.

Experts note that not only do classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate and strawberry resonate with consumers, but also remain the tried-and-true go-to for beverage-makers.

With the functional beverage space growing dramatically, experts note that consumer interest in botanicals and adaptogens is on the rise.

FDI is continuously rethinking the way that flavor creation can be applied to new scientific concepts, approaches and technologies.

Today, as people are increasingly seeking out ways that proactively support overall well-being, experts note that citrus ingredients that contain vitamin C continue to attract attention.

Current trends for health-and-wellness, plant-based, reduced-sugar and functional beverages, for example, easily can affect the taste, mouthfeel and overall beverage experience. Thus, beverage formulators engage masking ingredients to fight off any unwanted effects.

There are not too many announcements that garner the same attention as when Information Resources Inc. (IRI) announces its list of New Product Pacesetters. In its 27th year, the 2021 list of these top new food, beverage and nonfood product launches have served as a benchmark of where consumers are spending their dollars.