In recent years, functional beverages have gained significant space in the market, driven by the growing awareness of health and well-being.

These beverages, which offer additional health benefits beyond basic hydration, have become increasingly popular among consumers.

Natural ingredients, such as powdered fruits and dry extracts, have proven to be an excellent alternative for making these beverages even healthier and thus attracting more consumers.

 

What are Functional Beverages?

Functional beverages offer specific health benefits beyond hydration. They can be formulated to improve digestion, increase energy, strengthen the immune system, and promote relaxation, among other effects.

The concept of functional beverages is directly linked to the idea of adding nutritional and therapeutic value to liquids we consume daily, such as juices, teas, sodas, and even water.

 

The Use of Powdered Fruits in Functional Beverages

Powdered fruits are an excellent way to incorporate the benefits of fresh fruits into functional beverages. Some of the advantages of powdered fruits include:

• High Nutrient Concentration

  Powdered fruits contain a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For example, acerola and camu-camu are rich in vitamin C. At the same time, acai is rich in lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, and antioxidants that help protect against damage caused by free radicals, in addition to strengthening the immune system.

• Ease of Use and Storage

  Powdered fruits are easy to store and have a long shelf life, making beverage production and distribution more convenient. Moreover, they can be easily mixed into liquids without additional processing.

• Variety of Flavors

  They offer a wide range of flavors, allowing functional beverage brands to create innovative and appealing combinations for consumers. The use of different types of fruits can also make the beverages more palatable, enhancing the product’s appeal.

 

Dry Extracts: A Powerful Ingredient

Dry extracts are derived from plants and herbs and possess very specific functional properties. The main benefits of dry extracts include:

• Therapeutic Properties

  Dry extracts offer a wide range of therapeutic benefits. Ginger extract is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. Green tea extract is rich in catechins, which help accelerate metabolism and assist with weight loss.

• High Concentration of Active Compounds

  Dry extracts are highly concentrated, allowing functional ingredients to be added in effective doses with small amounts of the product.

• Increased Attractiveness

  The use of dry extracts adds an extra dimension of sophistication to beverages, not only in terms of flavor but also in terms of benefits. The presence of extracts like peppermint or lavender, for example, can attract consumers seeking relaxation and stress relief.

 

How to Integrate These Ingredients into Functional Beverages?

Integrating powdered fruits and dry extracts into functional beverages is an intelligent way to create healthier, tastier products with added value. However, it’s important for manufacturers to consider several key points to ensure the success of the product:

• Balance in Flavor: The use of powdered fruits and dry extracts can alter the flavor of the beverage, so it’s essential to ensure the combination is pleasing to the consumer.
• Proper Dosage: The concentration should be adjusted to ensure that the functional benefits are perceived without making the beverage’s flavor or texture unpleasant.
• Clear Communication: When using natural ingredients, brands should clearly communicate the benefits of powdered fruits and dry extracts so that consumers know what they are consuming and what effects they can expect.

 

Powder Fruits and Dry Extracts Are an Excellent Way to Add Quality and Flavor to Functional Beverages

Using powdered fruits and dry extracts in functional beverages is an effective strategy for making products healthier, more natural, and more appealing to consumers.

At Frootiva® Co, the process of removing water from fruits and plants (Spray Drying) ensures that the ingredient retains all the properties and nutrients of the food, including flavor and color.

Frootiva® Co’s product line includes powdered fruits, dry extracts, vegetables, and fruit nibs.

To learn more about our products, call +55 11 4765-0732 or fill out our inquiry form.