Consumers Push the Beverage Industry to Add More Healthy Drinks to the Market

Today’s consumer demands transparency from food companies. Buyers are reading labels and looking for what’s beneficial to their health. In response, producers are providing better transparency in labeling and promoting product and packaging choices that are at once environmentally, socially, and ethically conscious.

Beverage companies, both large and small, have recognized the demand for natural ingredients in their products. More and more beverage makers have responded by removing high sugar content, artificial additives, and preservatives and replacing them with ingredients that align with human health rather than enjoyable flavors.

Whether it is bottled waters, distillers, or tea companies, the push toward more natural ingredients has resulted in record sales. Why the interest in more natural drinks?

Some of the potential benefits of healthier, more natural ingredients include:

Greater Nutritional Value

Natural ingredients are far more rich in essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For example, drinking green tea, which is packed with antioxidants, has the potential to both relax and support the immune response within the body.

Reduced Sugar Content

As we discussed in one of our earlier blog entries, reducing sugar is one of the most significant health concerns for consumers today. When we read labels, it’s often difficult to find food or drink that doesn’t have some type of sugar in the first ingredients listed.

Many drinks on the market are loaded with sugar. As a result, there has been a marked increase over the past two decades in the number of people who suffer from health concerns, including obesity, diabetes, pre-diabetes, hypertension, and other cardiovascular diseases.

Foods that make use of naturally sweet fruits and herbs, such as stevia and even honey, that are used as sweeteners instead of refined sugar give consumers the ability to satisfy their sweet cravings without sacrificing good health.

Potentially Improved Digestive Health

Many natural ingredients, such as ginger, mint, and probiotics, have been associated with digestive health benefits. Beverages infused with these ingredients can aid digestion, alleviate indigestion, and promote a healthy gut microbiome. As consumers become more attuned to the importance of gut health, beverages that support digestive well-being are gaining popularity.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Many naturally derived foods and drinks, like green tea, herbal tea, and other green tea, contain anti-inflammatory compounds. Inflammation is the primary source of many chronic health issues, and the public has become aware that anti-inflammatory ingredients in drinks such as tea can provide a convenient way to lessen its effects.

Relaxation and Stress Reduction

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many consumers took a much closer look at what they consumed daily according to industry expert Doug Resh. He believes that consumers sought foods and drinks that offered a way to manage their anxiety and health. Concerns such as reducing stress during lockdowns and getting plenty of adequate sleep have remained important as the pandemic continues.

“The role of the internet and social media was also elevated during the pandemic, spreading influence about functional food ingredients and how these products fit into people’s routines,” Resh said. He believes this increased awareness is a large part of today’s trend.

Most companies within the beverage industry have seen that the trend toward more natural and healthy foods and drinks will not let up soon. Each has an ongoing role in reshaping a food landscape that offers better health for everyone and the well-being of our planet.

Sir Jason Winters has been on the forefront of health conscious drinks for decades. If you have not tried our formulas yet, try adding them to your daily routine. Even having a cup of  of our green tea before bedtime can help relax you and improve your health at the same time.

Disclaimer: The statements and information made on this blog are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, recommend, or prevent any medical condition or replace professional medical advice. If you are pregnant or nursing, taking any medications, or have a medical condition, consult your physician or healthcare professional before using any product, supplement, or tea. The Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated the statements herein.