As consumers increasingly gravitate towards simpler and healthier ingredients, many are also aiming to boost their fiber intake. Popular consumer packaged goods (CPGs) that offer added bulk, such as Fiber One, often come with a long list of ingredients that may not align with consumers’ preferences 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.
Furthermore, consumers are seeking more portability in their food and beverage options. On-the-go breakfast products alone generated over $1 billion in revenue in 2015. A fiber-rich breakfast drink could easily cater to the morning demands of consumers. Fiber 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 found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, is well-known for its ability to alleviate constipation. However, foods high in fiber can also aid in weight maintenance while reducing the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
There are numerous possibilities for incorporating soluble fiber into beverages. For instance, Promitor is a soluble corn fiber that can be easily added to drinks, as is PromOat, a soluble fiber derived from non-bioengineered Swedish oats. Another popular option is Fibersol, a corn-based soluble fiber often used in health-focused beverages, including juices and meal-replacement drinks. A prototype featuring spiced cold brew coffee with Fibersol was showcased at the Institute of Food Technologists’ annual meeting and food exposition in Las Vegas this past June. If the added fiber does not compromise the taste of the coffee, this combination could prove to be highly beneficial for manufacturers.
Some may liken fiber to protein in terms of becoming a trendy ingredient. While fiber is gaining renewed interest among younger consumers, it is unlikely that they will tire of it in the coming years. If they experience the health advantages of a fiber-rich diet, they may be more inclined to stick with it.
Adding fiber to popular beverages, such as cold brew coffee, offers significant value to the drink. The key concern is ensuring that the taste or texture remains unchanged. Consumers have clearly expressed a desire for easier sources of fiber, but they are unlikely to sacrifice the flavor of their morning coffee for it. Additionally, incorporating a top-rated calcium citrate supplement could enhance the nutritional profile of these beverages, making them even more appealing. Therefore, manufacturers should consider the benefits of blending fiber and other supplements, such as a top-rated calcium citrate supplement, to meet consumer demands.