With more consumers seeking reduced-sugar or sugar-free drinks, experts note that beverage-makers are turning to sweeteners such as stevia, erythritol, monk fruit and allulose to deliver products without sacrificing on taste.

Given the demand for ingredients that support cognitive health and energy enhancement, ingredient suppliers caution that formulation is more complicated than simply adding into the formula.

Clermont, Fla.-based Uncle Matt's Organic announced the launch of two new offerings for kids: No Sugar Added Lemonade Juice Boxes and No Sugar Added Strawberry Lemonade Juice Boxes. The shelf-stable line contains zero added sugars, sweetened with stevia and boosted with 150% daily value for vitamin C, plus 25% for vitamin D and zinc for immune support, the company says.

A true influencer for today’s beverage formulations is sweeteners as more consumers are looking at sugar content and sources when making purchasing decisions.

Ingredient companies are launching new application centers to keep pace with the demand for better-for-you products. A China-based company changed its name to HOWTAIN to reflect its global expanded footprint and commitment to sustainability.

Uncle Matt’s Organic, Clermont, Fla., is excited to announce the launch of Matt50 Orange Juice Beverage. Matt50 contains half the sugar and calories as regular orange juice and is boosted with 100% daily value of vitamin C, plus prebiotics and probiotics for gut health and immune support. 

Green Cola North America LLC, launched its Green Cola and Green Sparkling sodas at more than 1,000 retailers in the United States as well as Amazon and Walmart.com

Along with other news on developments and acquisitions, ingredient companies are spreading the word about new ingredients, including functional and masking ingredients.