The COVID-19 pandemic increased consumer interest in immune health and sales of probiotic foods and beverages. Circana (previously IRI and NPD) reports that probiotic beverages have increased both dollar and unit sales for the past three years, and probiotics were found in over 30 beverage subcategories.
Across the globe, individuals consume an estimated 2.25 billion cups of coffee per day. Coffee contributes a range of biologically active compounds, including many with antioxidant activity.
Innovation abounds in protein ingredients and dairy applications. In the plant-protein category, soy remains a strong player due to its nutritional profile, but pea is the most sought after plant protein, according to experts.
Manufacturers continue to ensure the safety of infant formula, while creating a product more like breast milk. Abbott, Mead Johnson, and Gerber are the top major brand manufacturers of infant formula. Perrigo, a private-label manufacturer, plans to purchase Nestlé’s Gateway plant, increasing its production capacity from 29 million pounds to 36 million pounds annually.
Retail sales of plant-based milk alternatives have reached $3.1 billion dollars in the United States and $20.9 billion worldwide. Yet, there’s no disputing the power of nutrients found in real dairy milk. In fact, real dairy milk contains nine essential nutrients, including 8 grams of protein; while almond milk, the most popular milk alternative, contains only 1 gram.