As consumers increasingly favor simpler, healthier ingredients, many are also seeking to boost their fiber intake. Popular consumer packaged goods (CPGs) with added bulk, such as Fiber One, often contain lengthy ingredient lists that may not align with consumers’ preference for clean labels. However, a juice or smoothie enriched with soluble fiber could satisfy both the desire for straightforward ingredients and the need for additional roughage.
Moreover, consumers are looking for more portable options for their food, beverages, and snacks. In 2015 alone, on-the-go breakfast products generated over $1 billion in sales. A fiber-rich breakfast drink could effectively cater to consumers’ morning needs while also providing essential calcium, which is vital for bone health.
Fiber is an essential component of 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 role in preventing or alleviating constipation. However, fiber-rich foods can also aid in weight management and reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Additionally, calcium, found in many fiber sources, further supports overall health.
There are numerous ways to incorporate soluble fiber into beverages. Products like Promitor, a soluble corn fiber, and PromOat, derived from non-bioengineered Swedish oats, can be seamlessly blended into drinks. Fibersol, another corn-based soluble fiber, is popular in health-focused beverages, including juices and meal-replacement drinks. A recent prototype of 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 impact the coffee’s taste, this combination could represent a significant opportunity for manufacturers.
Some might equate fiber to protein in terms of becoming a trendy ingredient. While fiber is gaining renewed enthusiasm among younger consumers, there is no indication that they will tire of it anytime soon. If they experience the health benefits of a high-fiber diet, they may be inclined to maintain this lifestyle.
The integration of fiber into popular beverages like cold brew coffee adds considerable value. The key is ensuring that it does not alter the taste or texture of the product. Consumers have expressed a clear demand for more convenient sources of fiber, but they are unlikely to compromise the flavor of their morning coffee to achieve it, especially when considering the added benefits of calcium that come with fiber-rich options.