What it takes to Win at the World Beverage Innovation Awards 2021, according to Aparna Oak, Flavor Master
As Director of Flavor Innovation at Imbibe, Aparna Oak sees trends develop before they hit shelves. To stand out, consider using unique ingredients, focusing on immune support, emphasizing sustainability, ensuring transparent packaging, and creating multi-functional products.
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#Trendspotting: Energy Edition
Imbibe introduces Ingredients by Imbibe, offering high-performing solutions like The Senses for taste modulation and Pre/Sense Stevia.
Imbibe launches ingredients platform for beverages
Imbibe introduces Ingredients by Imbibe, offering high-performing solutions like The Senses for taste modulation and Pre/Sense Stevia. These ingredients, tested in various beverages, tackle flavor challenges and extend to non-beverage applications like nutrition bars and confections.
The 4 best soda makers we tested in 2021
Imbibe’s Adam Johnson explains carbonation as the infusion of CO2 gas, likening its appeal to the slight sensation of pain, akin to enjoying spicy food.
#Trendspotting: The (natural, non-nutritive) Sweet Spot
Stevia’s popularity surged with 6,800+ new products in 2019, prompting Imbibe’s Pre/Sense™ Stevia blend. Monk fruit gains traction too, as seen in Lucky Jack Coffee and Califia Farm products.
Allulose: A new sugar substitute that sounds almost too good to be true
Imbibe, based in Niles, tested allulose but found it insufficiently sweet and costly, with an off taste difficult to mask in beverages, leading them to favor alternatives like stevia, according to Elizabeth Sisel, Taste Modulation Manager.
Energy and relaxation dietary supplements: Stress and fatigue drive consumers to supplement shelves
Imbibe highlights CBD’s rise in relaxation products despite regulatory hurdles. Other trending ingredients include L-theanine, ashwagandha, and mushrooms like reishi and chaga. Adaptogens like tulsi and moringa are also gaining attention for their diverse benefits in beverages.
New platform “Ingredients by Imbibe” addresses flavor, taste, sweetness and textural challenges
Imbibe introduces Ingredients by Imbibe, offering high-performing ingredients like The Senses and Pre/Sense Stevia to external R&D teams. These solutions, initially used in Imbibe-developed products, now aid clients in various sectors.
#Trendspotting: Sparkling Water Surges
Some sparkling water brands are exploring exotic flavors like yuzu and lychee to stand out. Asian-inspired flavors like plum and satsuma mandarin are also gaining popularity. Botanical and cocktail-inspired flavors, along with CBD and hemp infusions, are emerging trends.