Beverages

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Smoothies are emerging in innovative ways and in new locations around the country, as more consumers embrace the health-positioned beverages.

Consumers can benefit from drinks enhanced with whey to help control weight; vitamins and minerals to help maintain health; and ingredients that help with immunity, energy and overall fitness.

A love of shellfish causes ìmussel maniaî around the country; traditional classics shake up the cocktail menu.

Functional water goes to the dogs; a calorie-free beverage with the fun of bubbles; a protein bar burns fat and boosts metabolism; womenís weight matters; and functional foods and drinks enter a critical era.

The eco-friendly consumer base is growing, as awareness increases due to strong public communication about the need to “go green.”

The United Nations reports that the population of older persons (defined as anyone aged 60+) is growing by 2% each year--markedly faster than the population as a whole.

A lower-calorie plum beverage for healthy digestion; enhanced waters with bold flavors; organic cotton candy; and a new report shows some good news for the obesity crisis.

Bottled water continues to grow, especially items with health benefits. Tea experienced huge growth, even making its way into adult beverages.

Utilizing industry brands in other products; improving milk’s mealtime use; healthy additions to whole grains; smaller servings are a big thing; and McDonald’s jumps into the coffee bar scene.

A marketplace demanding bolder and more varied options is driving flavor formulators into new realms of innovation. As Prepared Foods’ “2008 Flavoring Trends Survey” finds, they are turning to superfruits an authentically ethnic flavors, though concerns abound.