Prebiotic flavored sodas are returning to the market as consumers are looking for clean-label and natural products. However, the development, scale-up, and compliance for these products can pose challenges in the areas of formulation, sourcing, and compliance. Food consultants can provide the expertise needed to navigate the challenges to bring true, healthy sodas to market.
Introduction
The beverage industry is witnessing a retro trend with old-fashioned flavored sodas that were present prior to the use of biotechnology ingredients. The clean-label trend, devoid of GMOs (genetically modified organisms) and artificial additives, makes old-fashioned flavored sodas a healthy option with a unique flavor for health-conscious consumers. Still, bringing those sodas back to life and upscaling them in the modern regulatory and competitive environment can be tricky even for the most skilled operations. Here’s where food consultants add value.
What is Prebiotic Flavoured Sodas?
Prebiotic sodas are beverages that are made using fiber and created from authentic ingredients and. These beverages typically derive flavor from plant extracts, fruits infusions, and natural fermentation that give fizz as well. Due to the presence of natural fibers, these drinks enhance the gut microflora and serve as food for the good microbiome. They usually do not contain high-fructose corn syrup, artificial additives, or preservatives based on the principals of the clean-label movement.
Challenges in Developing Prebiotic Sodas
The market for Prebiotic flavoured sodas is growing and comes with unique challenges when they are made. Even though you are working towards natural integrity and sourcing of dietary fibers that are naturally derived, there is a need to also make sure that there is shelf stability and flavour consistency, while being food regulation compliant. Food consultants come in handy here, providing invaluable guidance to food brands that will see them navigate these hurdles and make quality, clean-label sodas.
How Food Consultants Add Value
- Product Development: Food consultants work with clients who have traditional recipes but want to adjust them to be more appealing to today’s consumer without compromising authenticity. Consultants will make sure that the natural sweetness, acidity and carbonation levels are balanced.
- Ingredient Sourcing: It is difficult to locate verified, non-GMO and organic manufacturers. Consultants work with a network of trusted suppliers to guarantee that the sourcing is both clean and ethical.
- Regulatory Guidance: There are many aspects to food labeling laws ranging from label claims that indicate something as “all-natural,” to actual clean-label certifications. Consultants guide clients through these complicated systems and ensure that they are compliant with either FSSAI, FDA, or EU standards
- Safety & Shelf Life: Natural sodas, however, may have a shorter shelf life than other beverages. Consultants that specialize in food science can recommend safe preservation options that meet clean-label expectations, such as cold-fill or pasteurization.
- Brand Story: Consultants also help with brand story and marketing plan on the natural and ongoing nostalgic identity of the soda, and the ability to strategically differentiate itself from the rest in the beverage marketplace.
Conclusion
As consumer demand for healthier, authentic beverages increases, Prebiotic flavored sodas are ready for a resurgence. However, transforming a great idea into a scalable product takes support from experts. Food consultants offer the technical knowledge regarding ingredient functionality, sourcing connections, and regulatory framework to basically develop, scale, and market natural sodas. Particularly for beverage start-ups or established brands looking to innovate, finding a food consultant would be a strategic move toward innovation, and ultimately sustainability in the marketplace.
