Combining unique and instantly recognizable flavor and a myriad of potential health benefits, ginger is ‘coming on strong’ in the beverage space, say the beverage gurus at Imbibe.

“Ginger is a versatile flavor that works in products from nearly any category like soda, coffee, tea, juice, enhanced water and functional beverages. The flavor and health benefits associated with ginger make it a very appealing ingredient to use to add value to a beverage,” Holly McHugh, marketing associate at beverage development firm Imbibe, told us.

According to data from SPINS, the biggest category for ginger as the primary or marketed functional ingredient is shelf-stable teas, which has seen steady, double-digit growth over the last four years. In 2014(52 weeks ending January 31), the category was about $23 million, and has grown to $25.6 million for 2017 (52 weeks ending January 28). This was composed of data from the natural, specialty gourmet, and MULO channels.

Read the full article on Food Navigator.