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Beverage Acronyms You NTK (Need to Know)

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Updated March 2025:

Each industry has its own language, partially defined by the abbreviations used throughout meetings, conferences, collaborations and industry publications. Exposure to industry specific terms may vary depending on department and job function, so we thought it would be helpful to put together a guide of some of the most common acronyms in our industry. Let Imbibe be a resource to enhance your product offerings with our flavors, taste modulation ingredients, and comprehensive R&D support. Together, we can accelerate your innovation pipeline and ensure timely market entry. Here is a resource with acronyms that all food and beverage industry professionals should know:

Regulatory & Compliance

Acronym Meaning
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
FD&C United States Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
FEMA Flavor and Extract Manufacturer’s Association
GRAS Generally Recognized As Safe
RACC Reference Amount Customarily Consumed
NBFDS National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard (bioengineered food labeling)
FDA Food and Drug Administration
USDA United States Department of Agriculture

Processing & Preservation Methods

Acronym Meaning
HTST Hot Temperature Short Time (treatment method for processing)
UHT  Ultra High Temp (treatment method for processing)
HPP High Pressure Processing (nonthermal preservation method)
MAP Modified Atmosphere Packaging (used to extend shelf life)
TP Tunnel Pasteurization

Product Types & Categories

Acronym Meaning
CSD Carbonated Soft Drink
LRB Liquid Refreshment Beverage
RTD Ready to Drink
FAB Food and Beverage
FMP Flavor with Modulating or Modifying Properties

Foodservice 

Acronym Meaning
BOH Back of House
QSR Quick Service Restaurant
FOH Front of House (customer-facing restaurant operations)

Partner with Imbibe to leverage our expertise in flavor innovation and product development. Let us help you create standout products that drive market differentiation and customer engagement. Email us at marketing@imbibeinc.com to get started.

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