5 drivers contributing to growth in functional food and beverages

Posted: May 12, 2016
In: In the Media

There is no FDA definition for functional food, however industry professionals and consumers understand that this term applies to ingredients or products that offer health benefits beyond their inherent nutrients.

Consumers are looking for more than hydration – they want added value from their food and beverages.

Claims are made across all beverage categories to address the specific need states of the end user. The functional beverage category, also referred to as nutraceuticals, is expected to reach $279 billion by 2021, which represents a 60% increase from 2014. Here are the key drivers that are contributing to the growth of functional food and beverages:

Keep Reading:

Are You Ready for the Shift to Natural Food Colors?

For many, readiness depends less on regulatory intent and more on practical realities like formulation stability, flavor impact, cost targets, or supply chain constraints. How ready is your team? Take a two-minute assessment to find out!

FDA Takes a New Approach to “No Artificial Colors”: What Food & Beverage Teams Need to Know in 2026

The headline is clear: the FDA is actively facilitating the transition away from petroleum-based synthetic dyes. What’s less clear is what this means in practice—and how ready most teams actually are to act on it.

Beyond Protein: Why Fiber Is the Next Formulation Opportunity for Food & Beverage Brands

The market is moving beyond protein. Fiber is the next major formulation opportunity for food and beverage brands aiming to lead the gut health revolution and capture the next wave of consumer wellness.

5 drivers contributing to growth in functional food and beverages

Keep Reading:

Are You Ready for the Shift to Natural Food Colors?

FDA Takes a New Approach to “No Artificial Colors”: What Food & Beverage Teams Need to Know in 2026

Beyond Protein: Why Fiber Is the Next Formulation Opportunity for Food & Beverage Brands

Notice: Holiday Closure