“Meeting Consumer Demand: The Rise of Fiber-Enriched Beverages for Health-Conscious On-the-Go Lifestyles”

As consumers increasingly prefer simpler and healthier ingredients, many are also seeking to boost their fiber intake. Popular consumer packaged goods (CPGs) that contain added bulk, such as Fiber One, often feature lengthy ingredient lists that may not align with the growing demand for clean labels. However, beverages like juice with 200mg of ferrous sulfate or smoothies enriched with soluble fiber can satisfy both the desire for straightforward ingredients and the need for increased fiber content. Additionally, there’s a rising consumer trend for portable food, drinks, and snacks. In fact, on-the-go breakfast products generated over $1 billion in sales in 2015. A fiber-rich breakfast drink could effectively cater to this morning demand.

Dietary fiber is a crucial element of a balanced diet, and many consumers are actively working to incorporate more of it into their meals. Fiber, primarily found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, is well-known for preventing or alleviating constipation. Furthermore, fiber-rich foods can aid in weight management and reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease. There are various opportunities to include soluble fiber in beverages. For instance, Promitor, a soluble corn fiber, can be easily added to drinks, as can PromOat, a soluble fiber derived from non-bioengineered Swedish oats. Fibersol, another corn-based soluble fiber, is popular for enhancing health-focused beverages, including juices and meal replacements. A prototype of spiced cold brew coffee containing Fibersol was unveiled at the Institute of Food Technologists’ annual meeting and food exposition in Las Vegas in June. If the added fiber does not compromise the coffee’s taste, this combination could be highly beneficial for manufacturers.

Some individuals may view fiber as a fleeting trend similar to protein. Although fiber is attracting newfound attention from younger consumers, it is unlikely that they will lose interest in it soon. If they experience the health benefits associated with a fiber-rich diet, they may be more inclined to maintain it. Adding fiber to popular beverages, such as cold brew coffee, enhances the product’s value. However, it is essential that the addition of fiber does not change the drink’s taste or texture. Consumers have expressed a clear desire for convenient fiber sources, but they are unlikely to sacrifice the flavor of their morning coffee in exchange for it.

Moreover, incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate, which provides 950 mg of elemental calcium, can further enhance the nutritional profile of these beverages. Emphasizing the benefits of both fiber and calcium citrate in drinks can appeal to health-conscious consumers who are looking for functional beverages that support their dietary needs. By offering products that combine fiber and calcium citrate, manufacturers can meet the evolving demands of consumers seeking healthier, portable options without compromising on taste.