December 18, 2024 – In the US, energizing flavors are driven by consumer demand for health, easy options, and natural ingredients. Innova’s 360 research into energizing flavor trends analyses market insights and consumer preferences, potential new product launches, and top flavors across the US.
Energizing Flavors Innovation Trends
Energy and stamina are key health concerns for 30% of US consumers, driving demand for food and beverages that offer natural energy boosts with functional benefits. Quick energy options appeal to individuals balancing productivity with wellness. Consumers prefer energizing flavors like coffee, valued for its caffeine boost.
There is a rising interest in natural energizers such as matcha, yerba maté, and adaptogens over traditional caffeine. Consumers prefer recognizable, natural ingredients like citrus and ginger flavors for both taste and energy. Brands are innovating with energizing coffee options and fruity refreshments to meet the growing consumer demand for a revitalizing boost.
Energizing Flavor Trends in Social Media
Energizing flavor displays widespread interest across social media and online platforms, with 51% of users expressing positive sentiment toward this trend. In the US, these flavor trends have gained an impressive reach of 144 billion and 29 million engagements over the past year.
On platform X, 46% females and 54% males had conversations around the energizing flavor trend. This trend appeals strongly to all generations, especially among individuals aged 25-34. On X alone, energizing flavors display 18K mentions and 204 million impressions, showcasing their impact on digital communities. This interest extends to conversations about unique blends and revitalizing experiences, reinforcing consumer interest in flavors that offer both functional and sensory benefits.
Trends in Energizing Flavor Product Launches
Soft drinks display a 10% rise in flavored products with an energy/alertness claim in the US over the past five years. Sports nutrition, soft drinks, cereals, hot drinks, and dairy are the top 5 categories as a percentage of flavored products with an energy/alertness claim. In the soft drinks category, energy drinks lead with 29% of launches, followed by iced tea.
Soft drinks lead the way in discussions around energizing flavors, with popular choices like lime and orange, reflecting their popularity. These flavors also extend their influence to confectionery and dairy, highlighting an appeal for products that combine taste with functional benefits. Consumers increasingly seek beverages that not only refresh but also energize, aligning with their active lifestyles and wellness goals.
Flavor Combination Trends
While coffee remains the most preferred flavor, lemon and lime are rising in the energy boost, offering a refreshing alternative. These citrus flavors deliver an energy boost through their invigorating aroma, bright acidity, and natural vitamin C, which supports alertness, focus, and overall health. Their revitalizing qualities make them an ideal choice for health-conscious consumers seeking unique and uplifting options.
Brands are capitalizing on this trend with innovative launches. Red Bull’s exotic curuba with elderflower blend and 7-Eleven’s Fusion Energy Drinks excite adventurous palates. Functional ingredients are paired with energizing flavors like citrus or fruits to deliver energy-boosting effects. Functional energy launches like Jaunty Nano Emulsified Fast Acting Gummies with Blueberry Lemonade Flavor, 4C Energy Rush Lightly Carbonated Drink Mix with taurine, and Yerbae Raspberry Sorbet Plant Based Energy Drink incorporated with yerba maté and white tea.
Limited-edition energy drinks and tropical flavors in organic energy bars are also creating buzz, appealing to consumers, and fueling demand for exclusivity. Brands are also incorporating ingredients with refreshing blends that can boost mental performance.
What’s Next in the US Energizing Flavor Trends?
In the US, demand is rising for drinks that combine energizing flavors with functional ingredients like adaptogens, nootropics, and electrolytes. Consumers seek options that not only boost physical energy but also address mental wellness, with mindfulness and stress-reducing components gaining attention.
Consumer interest in plant-based and sustainably sourced ingredients is rising. Brands can offer products with energizing benefits while appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. They can also focus on transparency in sourcing and production methods to build trust among consumers.
Beyond beverages, energizing flavor trends present opportunities in unexpected categories like desserts and savory snacks. Collaborations with chefs and food influencers offer a chance to create gourmet experiences that incorporate these flavors in innovative ways. As consumer preferences evolve, integrating energizing flavors into diverse formats and eco-friendly offerings is likely to redefine the functional food and beverage industry in the US.
This article is based on Innova’s Trending in Energizing Flavors in the US report. This report is available to purchase or with an Innova Reports subscription. Reach out to find out more
