Prepared Foods talks beverage flavor trends with Jared Smith, vice president of business development at Stratus Group Duo LLC, a Los Angeles firm developing and marketing functional, convenient beverages. Its portfolio includes KÖE Organic Kombucha and Perfect Hydration Alkaline Water.

Recent events have not only driven consumers to seek ways of staying healthy but pulled the mental health side of mind-body wellness to the forefront. The stress of having lives and routines (and incomes) disrupted, illnesses threatening or even invading the family, and social isolation has led to an unprecedented 40% of US adults reporting that they’re struggling with mental health problems.

Scientists in the field have found that the microbial community, or microbiome of the gut affects not only gastrointestinal health, but has links to the brain, immune system and even our circadian clocks.

The potent mint flavor freshens breath while releasing the immune-benefiting properties of HK L-137, a probiotic originally discovered by Japanese immunologists researching health benefits of sushi and fermentation. Also known as Immuno-LP20®, HK L-137 has demonstrated in human clinical studies to benefit the immune system, respiratory health and overall quality of life.

Laird Superfood launched its new ACTIVATE Prebiotic Daily Greens supplement to support gut health. Prebiotics are reported to ferment in the lower intestine and provide fuel for vital gut flora.

For the past few years, we’ve noted in these pages that digestive health, and the probiotic bacteria and prebiotic fibers and starches that support it, would continue to be the hottest trends in “better for you” food and beverage development.

In 2020, the world as we knew it was turned upside down. Coronavirus changed the way consumers shop, socialize, entertain and more which is why it will be the biggest driver of food and beverage trends in 2021.

Consumer enthusiasm for plant-based foods continues to grow unabated. This is also affecting the beverage market. Market research company Persistence Market Research (PMR) predicts annual growth rates exceeding 6% for plant-based drinks through 2028. 

Recent ADM OutsideVoice℠ research shows that 77% of consumers intend to make more attempts to stay healthy in the future. Food and beverage manufacturers who successfully balance consumer health concerns with affordability are most likely to win with consumers. 

The Brenntag Food & Nutrition business unit in North America, part of the Brenntag Group, signs a new agreement with Vitalus Nutrition Inc. for the distribution of VITAGOS™ in the United States and Canada.