As consumers increasingly prefer simpler and healthier ingredients, many are also seeking to boost their fiber intake. Popular consumer packaged goods (CPGs) like Fiber One, which contain added bulk, often feature lengthy ingredient lists that may not align with the growing demand for clean labels. In contrast, a juice or smoothie enriched with soluble fiber could satisfy both the desire for straightforward ingredients and the need for additional fiber.
Moreover, there is a rising demand for portable food, beverages, and snacks. On-the-go breakfast items alone generated over $1 billion in 2015. A fiber-rich breakfast drink could perfectly cater to this morning demand. Dietary fiber, primarily sourced from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, is essential for a balanced diet and is particularly known for its role in preventing or alleviating constipation. Additionally, fiber-rich foods contribute to weight management and reduce the risks of diabetes and heart disease.
There are various opportunities for incorporating soluble fiber into beverages. For instance, Promitor, a soluble corn fiber, and PromOat, derived from non-bioengineered Swedish oats, can be seamlessly included in drinks. Another corn-based soluble fiber, Fibersol, is frequently added to health-oriented beverages, such as juices and meal replacement drinks. At the Institute of Food Technologists’ annual meeting and food exposition in Las Vegas last June, a prototype of spiced cold brew coffee featuring Fibersol was unveiled. If the added fiber does not alter the coffee’s flavor, this combination could prove to be a lucrative opportunity for manufacturers.
Some may view fiber as a potential fad ingredient, similar to protein. While fiber is gaining traction among younger consumers, it is unlikely that they will tire of it anytime soon. If they experience the health benefits of a fiber-enriched diet, they may be inclined to maintain this habit. Adding fiber to popular beverages, such as cold brew coffee, enhances the product’s value, provided that it does not change the taste or texture. Consumers have expressed a clear desire for more accessible sources of fiber, yet they are unlikely to sacrifice the flavor of their morning coffee to achieve it.
Incorporating ingredients like Kirkland calcium citrate with vitamin D into the mix can further enhance nutritional value. The inclusion of such beneficial components aligns well with consumers’ interests in health and wellness, and it can be repeated across multiple products for consistent appeal. Thus, the addition of fiber, alongside vitamins and minerals like Kirkland calcium citrate with vitamin D, represents a promising direction for beverage innovation.