With the theme of “Where science and strategy intersect,” SupplySide West 2017 brought together more than 15,000 ingredient suppliers and buyers Sept. 25-29 at Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas.

As many working within this industry know, these taxes extend to nearly all beverage categories (minus 100 percent juice, milk, milk alternatives, infant formula, medical-use beverages, therapeutic meal replacements, or syrup and powder mixes). Many retailers and consumers are noting the confusing nature of these taxes.

CEO Clean Energy Organics now offers its lineup of self-titled, organic energy drinks in select markets. 

With consumers desiring more premium options, White Plains, N.Y.-based HEINEKEN USA took its expertise as a global brewer of major brands, including Heineken and Dos Equis, to embark on a journey to give consumers the premium beer tastes from the diverse sources that they desire.

Although many consumers might be looking to live healthier lifestyles, they’re still looking for products that satisfy their sweet tooth. Looking for the best of both worlds, consumers are demanding great-tasting sweetened products that do not contain sugar.

Expanding on its portfolio of better-for-you sports drinks, ROAR Beverages introduced ROAR Organic Electrolyte Infusions.

Beneo Inc., Morris Plains, N.J., announced a new study that shows that the company’s prebiotic chicory root fiber Orafti Inulin, induces selective changes in the gut’s microbiota composition that can be directly linked to improved regularity and well-being for the first time.

The industry has recognized that consumers’ food and beverage consumption habits have changed during the past two decades. Trends are showing that consumers want more information about products to help them make informed choices that also fit their health goals. Today, the industry actively is considering the implications of the announcement that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is requiring updates to the Nutrition Facts label by July 26, 2018. Now, more than ever, it’s important that manufacturers and ingredient suppliers work together to create healthier and tastier options for consumers.

Honey is a versatile, all-natural ingredient being used to add flavor and sweetness to a plethora of products, including beer, ready-to-drink teas and energy drinks as well as spirits.

With the release of the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans earlier this year followed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s new Nutrition Facts label, many changes are instore for consumer packaged goods (CPG) manufacturers.