The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), Chicago, saw more than 20,000 attendees attend IFT17, the association’s Annual Conference & Expo, which took place June 25-28 at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas. This year’s theme, Go With Purpose, highlighted the latest research, solutions, innovations and trends, including clean labels, sweeteners and sugar-reduction solutions, as well as plant-based alternatives. In addition to various speakers, more than 100 scientific sessions and 700 poster presentations, the expo featured more than 1,200 exhibitors. The following are some of the beverage highlights from IFT17:

Lawrence, N.J.-based iTi Tropicals partnered with local starlets “The Kitchen Twins” to create a video demonstrating the benefits of blending coconut water with juices.

PureCircle announced that it has developed the first commercially viable stevia antioxidant product. The ingredient has a clean taste profile with a hint of sweetness, the company says.

William Graham, vice president of sales for North America at Prova, announced the immediate and ongoing availability of new nut flavors especially designed for consumers with tree nut allergies.

The familiarity and fresh-from-the-vine natural goodness of citrus fruits have been resonating with consumers for decades. Used as a single, recognizable ingredient in orange juice or lemonade, citrus ingredients are adding a refreshing, good-for-you boost to a wide variety of products and can be used alone or in combination with other flavors to deliver differentiated taste experiences. Experts note that citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, pineapples and grapefruits are a staple in juices, and also are proliferating in still and sparkling waters, sports beverages, energy drinks, ready-to-drink (RTD) teas, coffee, and beer. They also are used in combination to add a refreshing twist to even more beverage applications including spirits, mocktails and low-proof alcohol beverages, they add.

Firmenich, Geneva, Switzerland, announced that it has been recognized by the Better Society Network with its 2017 Ethical Business Award.

William Graham, vice president of sales for North America at Prova, announced the immediate and ongoing availability of vanilla alternatives that are designed to deliver precise vanilla taste profiles, mimicking those of vanilla extracts.

As Greek yogurt transitions from a trend to a mainstay, Grande Custom Ingredients Group introduced versatile, nutritive Grande Primo G60 dried Greek yogurt powder.

As part of its ongoing program to expand its non-GMO ingredient portfolios, Tate and Lyle introduced 17 new non-GMO starches with the same functionality as their traditional counterparts.

BI Nutraceuticals introduced its new Sweet Potato Powder, which provides a nutritional profile with essential vitamins and minerals, protein, and fiber, the company says.