FDA has issued guidance for industry in the form of a Q&A addressing "high potency" and "antioxidant", while clarifying the use of ìsugar-freeî claims on dietary supplement labeling.

A few surprises surfaced in the ì2008 Prepared Foods' R&D Trends Survey: Functional Foods." 

"Eat Red” is becoming a new mantra for health-conscious consumers who are looking for natural ingredients in products to promote good health.

One company has created a natural alternative to rival even the most energetic of energy drinks.

A look at some of the advantages and challenges in the development of the concept and possible labeling of nutrient-dense foods is provided.

Ingredients such as acidifiers, buffering agents, sweeteners and nutritional components must be carefully balanced to deliver the nutrition, function and flavor consumers love.

The diverse beverage category is finding new ways to attract consumers, with altered flavors being the direction of choice, though other approaches are likewise proving successful.

A product targeting specific demographic groups is something of a tradition for manufacturers in the global consumer packaged goods world. Lately, there has been an influx in products targeting women, both broadly and also on a more segmented level--expectant mothers or older women, for instance.

The use of superfruits and natural ingredients and formulations are major trends, as consumers reduce artificial ingredients in their diets and focus on natural health benefits of fruits and vegetables. 

According to Mintel’s report, “Tea and RTD Tea--U.S.--May 2007,” tea sales reached more than $3 billion in the U.S. alone, a growth of almost 30% since 2001. Tea, as an ingredient, has also been the nucleus of product innovation across food and beverage categories.