Articles by Barbara Harfmann

Consumers differ on how they get their morning caffeine, but regardless of what beverage you start your day with, the coffee and tea market is expected to stay piping hot.

Probiotics within a variety of beverages are addressing consumers’ need states, including improving gut health and immunity, promoting weight loss, enhancing cognitive function, and even improving libido.

Preventing Alzheimer’s disease and improved clinical research on functional ingredients are among the trends boosting the use of cognitive health and energy ingredients within beverages and supplements.

From bone broths, plant-based beverages to ready-to-drink coffees and teas, functional beverages that support immunity, digestive health and overall health and wellness are thriving.

Along with the United States, many countries require genetically modified foods to be labeled. Effective this year, the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard requires manufacturers in the beverage industry to label products using the term “bioengineered” instead of “GMO.”

Can fillers and seamers have adapted to handle the influx of SKUs flooding the beverage market to keep operations running smoothly.

Beverage trends including gluten free, non-GMO, plant-based and low- or no-sugar are resonating in the marketplace as consumers are looking for more than a “diet” to help them manage their weight.

Tasked with protecting the contents of beverages, caps and closures also are seeing trends that impact sustainable measures as well as incorporating smart technology.

Trends indicate that no alcohol is trending not just in “Dry January” but throughout the year. As a result, beverage manufacturers are stocking shelves with plenty of non-alcohol beer, wine and spirits.