Today, as more consumers continue on a functional beverage course, experts note that as such, many are turning to performance beverages to help manage their overall well-being.

A true influencer for today’s beverage formulations is sweeteners as more consumers are looking at sugar content and sources when making purchasing decisions.

The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) returned both in-person and online with a new and improved lineup of content and programming as part of IFT FIRST: Annual Event & Expo.

As immunity is a universal health need, experts note that within the beverage space, more and more consumers are seeking products that deliver immune-supportive benefits.

With health and wellness driving consumer purchases, beverage-makers are finding clean label and non-GMO a growing priority for today’s shoppers.

Annual Event & Expo, whose updated brand is an acronym for Food Improved by Research, Science and Technology, will take place July 10-13 at McCormick Place in Chicago.