The growing trend toward healthy snacks and healthy beverages is increasing the demand for healthier options that companies must offer. In recent years, there has been a trend toward drinks that are free of artificial ingredients and offer specific health benefits. Here we look at current consumer demand for healthy beverages and what companies can do to meet that demand.
Natural ingredients
One of the most important characteristics of healthy drinks is natural and organic ingredients. Industry customers do not want to drink products that contain artificial preservatives, flavors, colors, or sweeteners. Instead, they look for drinks with natural ingredients. They can be easily obtained from fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
This trend towards natural ingredients has led to the appearance of products such as cold-pressed juices, made from fresh fruits and vegetables without added sugar or preservatives. Finding a reputable and reliable European extract supplier is essential for manufacturers to stay current and meet customer demands.
Functional drinks
Another important trend in the healthy beverage industry is the rise of functional and healthy beverages. Offering specific health benefits beyond hydration, these beverages are marketed as a way to boost energy levels, improve digestion, or promote overall health and wellness.
The functional drinks category includes sports drinks, energy drinks, but also probiotic drinks. These healthy drinks are gaining popularity among consumers looking for healthy beverages that offer more than just refreshment.
Low calorie and sugar options
Consumers are also looking for drink options that are lower in calories and sugar. As more and more people become aware of the health risks associated with excessive sugar consumption, there is a growing demand for healthy drinks with no added sugar. This has led to the emergence of low-calorie and low-sugar options, such as flavored water, sparkling water, and unsweetened teas.
Just add powdered water and flavored water formats
Consumers are also looking for convenient and healthy beverages options, which has led to the rise of powdered water and flavored water formats. These products are usually sold in single servings and can be easily mixed with water to create a refreshing and tasty drink. Natural extract flavors are often used in these products to provide consumers with a delicious and healthy beverages option on the go.
Vegetable drinks
Another trend that is gaining popularity among health conscious consumers is plant-based beverages. Made from ingredients like nuts, seeds, and oats, these drinks offer several health benefits. An example is almond milk or coconut milk, both of vegetable origin. They’re high in protein but low in calories, making them a calorie counter’s best friend. They also mention an alternative to a dairy free diet.
Meet consumer demand
Companies that want to meet the growing demand for healthy beverages must be aware of these trends and offer products that meet these needs. This could include developing new products made with natural ingredients, offering low-calorie and low-sugar options, or developing functional beverages that provide specific health benefits. It’s also important to choose suppliers that offer quality ingredients that match consumer preferences.
