Functional beverages
consumers , and over 75 percent stated they ’ d be willing to pay more for sustainable products , making clean , sustainable labelling more important than ever .
Natural , sustainable ingredients which can permit clean labelling claims with added functional and flavor benefits , could be the key to meeting heightened expectations .
( 33 percent ) of European consumers are drinking more traditional , natural sources of caffeine such as tea and coffee .
This , combined with rising interest in the various health properties of tea , is paving the way for beverage brands to innovate . Through utilizing quality tea extracts rich in naturally derived antioxidants beverage brands can both meet demand for natural sources of caffeine while providing additional functional and health benefits .
3 . Clearly communicating sustainability New beverage expectations come with an increasing awareness of sustainability . Above anything else , ensuring drinks are sustainably sourced affects the purchasing decisions of a quarter ( 25 percent ) of European
4 . Using innovative formats to enjoy flavor and functionality on the go Since the pandemic , people have significantly adapted their drinking habits . This is particularly true amongst the younger generation , with 93 percent of 18 to 24-year-olds and 88 percent of 25 to 35-year-olds stating their habits have changed since March 2020 . This group is driving the trend for functionality , seeking out innovative solutions that suit their new daily routines and revived health priorities .
As consumers continue to look for flexibility from their refreshments , functional beverages , such as flavored or enhanced water , can meet this demand . One solution for this is soluble , single-serve sachets that dissolve instantly in cold water . These onthe-go flavor solutions can bring natural , sustainable ingredients to beverage brand owners looking to innovate . ■
For a list of the sources used in this article , please contact the editor .
Finlays www . finlays . net
Finlays , part of Swire Group , is the leading independent B2B supplier of tea , coffee and botanical solutions to beverage brand owners worldwide . Today , with deep roots across the globe and unparalleled experience and expertise , no one is better placed to unleash the potential of natural beverages by helping brand owners to bring the best from bush to cup .
Finlays Europe , which includes Finlays Beverages , is one of the region ’ s largest processors and packers of tea and coffee .
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