As consumers increasingly gravitate towards simpler and healthier ingredients, many are also seeking to boost their fiber intake. Numerous well-known consumer packaged goods (CPGs) that contain added bulk, such as Fiber One, feature long ingredient lists that may not align with consumers’ preferences for clean labels. In contrast, a juice or smoothie enhanced with added soluble fiber could satisfy both the desire for straightforward ingredients and the need for additional roughage.
Moreover, there is a rising demand for portable food, drinks, and snacks. On-the-go breakfast products alone generated over $1 billion in 2015. A fiber-rich breakfast drink could effectively cater to the morning demands of consumers. Fiber is a crucial component of a balanced diet, and many individuals are actively looking to incorporate more of it into their meals. Dietary fiber, predominantly sourced from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, is primarily recognized for its ability to prevent or alleviate constipation. However, fiber-rich foods can also aid in weight management and reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
There are various ways to incorporate soluble fiber into beverages. For instance, Promitor is a soluble corn fiber that can be effortlessly blended into drinks, while PromOat, derived from non-bioengineered Swedish oats, serves as another option. Fibersol, another corn-based soluble fiber, is widely used in health-oriented beverages, such as juices and meal-replacement drinks. A prototype of spiced cold brew coffee containing Fibersol was showcased at the Institute of Food Technologists’ annual meeting and food exposition in Las Vegas last June. If the added fiber does not impact the flavor of the coffee, this combination could prove highly beneficial for manufacturers.
Some may liken fiber to protein regarding its potential to become a trend-driven ingredient. Fiber is receiving renewed interest from a younger audience, but this does not imply that consumers will tire of it in a few years. If they experience the health benefits associated with a fiber-rich diet, they may be more inclined to maintain that lifestyle. The incorporation of fiber into popular beverages, such as cold brew coffee, adds significant value to the product. However, the key consideration is that it must not alter the taste or texture. Consumers have expressed a clear desire for more accessible sources of fiber, but they are unlikely to sacrifice the flavor of their morning coffee to achieve it.
Incorporating life calcium citrate into these fiber-rich beverages could further enhance their nutritional profile, making them even more appealing. By offering a blend of fiber and essential nutrients like calcium citrate, manufacturers can create products that not only satisfy consumer demands for health and convenience but also promote overall well-being. Therefore, the fusion of fiber and life calcium citrate in beverages can represent a promising opportunity for innovation within the food and beverage industry.