Toasting Drinks Creativity
Local flavors like lemon, lime, and orange remain popular, but global twists with yuzu, guava, and calamansi are trending. Nostalgic flavors like cereal milk, s’mores, and birthday cake are popular in coffee, protein shakes, and cocktails, offering comforting experiences.
How Sweet is Our Future @ South by Southwest: Audio Edition
To adapt to changing perceptions of sugar, brands should focus on using natural, low-calorie sweeteners, modulating flavors to reduce sugar content without sacrificing taste, and providing clear, transparent labeling.
2019 Chewing on the Big Issues of the Food Industry at SXSW 2019
Discussions will cover the wine industry’s adaptation to Millennial preferences with Andy Dratt from Imbibe, and even food production in dystopian scenarios.
#SXSW Recap: Bonus Trendspotting in Austin
Initiatives like PeaceBox aim to enhance wellness by promoting mindfulness and work-life balance through mobile meditation services, responding to growing concerns over anxiety and disconnectedness.
#Trendspotting: Expo West Recap Part I
At Expo West, trends included plant-based milks, especially oat milk. Plant-based waters, caffeinated sparkling waters, and functional craft sodas were also prominent.
Grains, nuts power plant-based beverages
Pecan, quinoa, hazelnut, and flax are emerging as alternative milk sources, while 53% of U.S. consumers purchase plant-based milks. Sales of vegan alternatives increased 20% from 2016 to 2017, reflecting a broader trend of using grains and nuts.
Props to Hops: A New Generation of Hops-laden Beverages
Younger consumers are prioritizing beverages that align with their biological needs, leading to a rise in functional ingredients like hops. Brands like Heineken, Leffe, and Hoplark HopTea cater to this trend with innovative products.
2019 Flavor & Ingredient Trends
Predicting the future of the beverage industry involves navigating shifting consumer preferences. While natural ingredients gain traction, sugar faces scrutiny. Exotic citrus and bitter flavors are on the rise, reflecting changing taste preferences.
#Trendspotting: Austin
We tasted our way through Austin on a trend walk. Here are some of the most innovative menu items we found on our journey.
Cognitive health, energy ingredients drive usage upswing
Cognitive health beverages are gaining traction due to increasing concerns about cognition. Data from the Natural Marketing Institute shows rising importance, with 74% of U.S. adults prioritizing cognitive health in 2017, up from 61% in 2005.
