As consumers are more conscious about the products associated with a high sugar content, juice manufacturers are taking a proactive approach to meet this demand.

Experts note that convenience, drinkability and protein content are key drivers of the performance beverage market.

As America’s youth consistently consume sugary drinks on any given day, PLEZi Nutrition launched with a goal of creating beverages with less sugar, less sweetness and more nutrients for kids’ to enjoy.

The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) returned to McCormick Place for the IFT FIRST: Annual Event & Expo where exhibitors were presented with an array of ingredient samples, interactive demos and product tastings.

As consumers become increasingly aware of their sugar intake, beverage-makers must deliver drinks that are sweet with natural sweeteners.

In June, Swoon brought Barbiecore to the beverage aisle with the limited-edition release of Barbie x Swoon Pink Lemonade. That partnership led to the zero-sugar brand experiencing its highest monthly volume sales.

This year’s State of the Industry report on sports and protein drinks notes the impact functionality has had on the categories as well as the impact of inflation.

This year’s State of the Industry report on juice and juice drinks notes that, as consumers remain concerned about the high sugar content of juice and juice drinks, this has impacted the overall category.

Although lemonades have been a staple in many consumer homes, concerns about its sugar content have beverage-makers reverting to a checkpoint where they are maintaining the goodwill with consumers but altering their formulation strategy. 

To meet consumers’ preferences for functional beverages and lower sugar content, experts note that beverage-makers are turning to solutions using advanced high-intensity sweeteners, flavor modifiers and maskers to deliver functional beverages without compromising on taste.