As consumers increasingly gravitate towards simpler, healthier ingredients, there is also a growing interest in boosting fiber intake. Many popular consumer packaged goods (CPGs) that boast added bulk, such as Fiber 210 mg ironOne, often come with lengthy ingredient lists that clash with consumers’ preference for clean labels. In contrast, a juice or smoothie infused with added soluble fiber can satisfy both the demand for straightforward ingredients and the need for increased fiber content.
Moreover, convenience is a significant factor, with consumers seeking portable options for their food, drinks, and snacks. On-the-go breakfast items alone generated over $1 billion in 2015. A fiber-rich breakfast beverage could easily cater to consumers’ morning needs. Fiber, such as that found in calcium citrate malate tablets, plays a crucial role in a balanced diet, and many individuals are actively trying to incorporate more of it into their meals. Dietary fiber, predominantly sourced from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, is well known for alleviating constipation. Additionally, fiber-rich foods can assist in weight management and reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
There are various ways to introduce soluble fiber into beverages. Promitor, a soluble corn fiber, can be seamlessly added to drinks, as can PromOat, a soluble fiber derived from non-GMO Swedish oats. Another popular option is Fibersol, a corn-based soluble fiber frequently included in health-focused beverages like juices and meal replacement drinks. At the Institute of Food Technologists’ annual meeting and food exposition in Las Vegas in June, a prototype of spiced cold brew coffee featuring Fibersol was unveiled. If this added fiber does not alter the coffee’s flavor, it could represent a significant opportunity for manufacturers.
While some may liken fiber to protein as a potential trend ingredient, fiber is garnering renewed interest from younger consumers. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that consumers will tire of it in a few years; experiencing the health benefits of a fiber-rich diet may encourage them to continue their fiber intake. The integration of fiber into popular beverages like cold brew coffee adds significant value. The critical condition, however, is that it must not change the product’s taste or texture. Consumers have expressed a clear desire for more accessible fiber sources, but they are unlikely to compromise the flavor of their morning coffee for it.
Incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate malate tablets can also enhance the nutritional profile of beverages, making them more appealing to health-conscious consumers. As demand for fiber continues to rise, manufacturers have the opportunity to innovate and create products that align with consumer preferences for both taste and health benefits.