Current consumer trends are focused on unique and innovative flavor combinations while keeping healthy options in mind. We continue to experiment with different fruits for an enjoyable drinking experience with all the nutritional values, for exciting and unexpected combinations. For instance, our MicroDried’s citrus flavors – lemon, lime, and orange are the perfect complement to blueberries, strawberries or raspberries. Or add in one of our tropicals – bananas, pineapple or mangos for a vacation island flair. These perfect combinations are great for teas, smoothies, protein shakes, energy drinks and seltzers.
Exotic fruits are known to be rich in nutrients and minerals, reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure. Manufacturers are finding that when blended with regular fruits that it only increases the health benefits of their beverages and gives them an opportunity to market exotic sounding options. This gives consumers a healthy option and, by balancing domestic and exotic fruits, can give manufacturers an exotic fantasy flavor drink at a lower price point.
Natural vs. organic – when giving consumers a choice of products it’s important to make sure you are satisfying all current consumer “good for you” demands. MicroDried’s products are 100% fruits and vegetables that have no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives and organic labeling takes it further with how farmers grow and process their fruits that are better for you and the environment. Ultimately this gives consumers a choice when deciding on which beverage provides natural and/or organic fruit options. MicroDried’s line of organic fruits includes apple, aronia, banana, blueberry, cherry, cranberry, lemon, mango, peach, pineapple, raspberry, and strawberry, which provide manufacturers with some great organic combinations and satisfy label requirements.
At MicroDried, we are seeing floral and citrus for refreshing drinks, peach / blueberry / strawberry for nostalgic flavors and tropical with heat and / or herbs for mocktails or cocktails. There is a definite increase in teas, smoothies, protein shakes, energy drinks and seltzers. Quick convenient easy to grab beverages are also in demand. Having the flexibility to provide dried fruits in several forms to any beverage only adds to the flavor, nutritional value and overall taste satisfaction. The push for anything that is nutrient dense, mood enhancing, sweet with less sugar. Unique fruits are trending more, with meyer lemon, wild blueberry, dragon fruit – something familiar paired with something unique.
[JULY 2024 BEVERAGE INDUSTRY ARTICLE]
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