Soup to Nuts Podcast: Mood boosting beverages, non-alcoholic options rise with ‘sober curious’ movement
Imbibe’s Holly McHugh discusses consumer preferences, ingredient trends, and strategies for overcoming formulation and regulatory challenges in beverage development.
‘Cultural tourism’ opens consumer doors to brands promising global flavors, new experiences in 2021
Lockdowns have sparked a surge in consumer interest in global flavors and experiences, prompting opportunities for manufacturers to innovate. With people spending more time at home, DIY kits and adventurous flavors offer an escape from the monotony.
2021 Flavor trends for food and beverage
In 2020, consumer flavor preferences shifted to both familiar comforts and adventurous tastes due to the pandemic. Childhood favorites like cotton candy and birthday cake continue to rise in popularity, offering consumers a nostalgic escape during stressful times.
Editor’s Memo
In December, I highlighted immune health and microbiome-focused products as key areas for dairy innovation in 2021. Another trend, noted by Imbibe, suggests consumers will prioritize weight loss efforts, addressing the “quarantine 15” gained during pandemic shutdowns.
#Trendspotting: 2021 Trend Predictions Part II: Mood Boosters
Consumers seek relaxation and permissible indulgence in beverages. Daydream sparkling water offers stress relief with hemp oil and adaptogens. WellWell’s Dream aids sleep with valerian root and adaptogens. Sun Chaser offers a non-alcoholic alternative with amino acids and mushrooms.
Innovating better-for-you products during a pandemic
The food and beverage industry, amid COVID-19 challenges, faces uncertainty in consumer habits. Innovation is vital for long-term growth, as delayed efforts risk missing opportunities and launching products in a saturated market.
Benefits and challenges of formulating with natural colors
Lockdowns have sparked a surge in consumer interest in global flavors and experiences, prompting opportunities for manufacturers to innovate.
Colorful concoctions continue to create bold boost for beverages on social media
From black water to orange gin, the overarching trend in beverage colors is simple: young consumers want bright, bold and highly Instagrammable products.
Trendspotting in beverage flavors
In 2021, anticipate evolving citrus flavors, premium botanicals, and rising Mediterranean and Asian tastes. Holly McHugh from Imbibe highlights blood orange’s popularity, with growing interest in yuzu, passionfruit, tamarind, and fig, according to Google searches.
New Labeling Requirements for Bioengineered Ingredients Mandatory in 2022
Starting January 2022, USDA’s National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard (NBFDS) replaces non-GMO claims. All food manufacturers must comply. Bioengineered foods contain modified genetic material.
