February 20, 2025 – In the US and Canada, carbonated beverages are opted for their refreshing taste, fizz, and variety of flavors that enhance the drinking experience. Innova’s 360 research highlights that healthy indulgence, and clean labels are prevalent in carbonates launches. It also provides valuable insights about what may be expected in the carbonates market in the US and Canada.
Carbonated Beverages Market Size and Trends
North America is the fourth leading region in the carbonated beverages market for carbonates subcategory sales in the past year. Nearly 1 in 3 consumers in the US and Canada prioritize natural ingredients in food and beverages. This is reflected in the prevalence of clean label claims like GMO-free, organic, no additives/preservatives, and natural during the same period. It is highlighting the demand for transparency and health in the region.
Carbonated Beverages Product Launch Trends
Carbonates displayed 18% launches in the US and Canada in the past year. 20% of consumers in the US and Canada increasingly prioritize health-boosting ingredients. Adaptogens like ashwagandha, maca root, panax ginseng, and lion’s mane mushroom, along with botanicals such as guarana, chamomile, basil, and rosehip, are gaining attention for their natural wellness benefits.
Carbonates are the top subcategory in soft drinks category launches, reflecting their strong market presence in the carbonated beverages market. Inclusivity also plays a key role, with more than 3 in 5 consumers valuing dietary inclusivity. Brands are responding with gluten-free options for allergen-sensitive consumers and products aligning with religious dietary guidelines like kosher, highlighting a broader shift toward towards products that cater to diverse dietary needs.
Leading Regions in Carbonated Beverages
The US leads with 73% of carbonates launches. Meanwhile, Canada shows the fastest growth over the past five years.
Carbonated beverages trends show that 1 in 4 consumers in the US consider digestive or gut health as a major concern related to their physical health. To support this trend, beverages are enriched with prebiotics like inulin agave, chicory, and acacia fiber, along with probiotics and postbiotics such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae. These ingredients help maintain a healthy gut microbiome and promote overall wellness, sustaining consumer interest. This aligns with Innova’s top trend of 2024, ‘Prioritizing Prevention,’ highlighting that consumers are seeking products that proactively address their well-being, aiming to prevent health concerns before they develop.
Top Brands and Companies in Carbonated Beverages
Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Keurig Dr Pepper, Jones Soda, and Zevia are the leading companies in the carbonated beverages market. Carbonated beverage trends research shows that these top 5 companies account for a total of 30% of carbonates subcategory launches in the US & Canada.
Coca-Cola is the top company for carbonates launches in the region. The company’s launches are driven by limited editions, offering engaging flavors and attractive package designs. Futuristic cola flavored launches, winter editions with spice flavor, have boosted the innovation. Additionally, packs featuring movie characters like Marvel’s Loki, Deadpool, Black Panther, Iron Man, Hulk, and Wolverine are engaging the consumers in the US and Canada.
Claims and Positionings Trends
GMO free is the top positioning for carbonates subcategory launches in the market. This is followed by gluten free, sugar free, low/no/reduced calorie, and vegan.
Apart from the top 5 positionings, other positionings growing across the US are indulgent and premium, seasonal—other, and low/no/reduced sodium. Meanwhile, organic, no added sugar, traditional claims are gaining interest in Canada.
Carbonated Beverages Flavor Trends
Cola, orange, lime, lemonade, and lemon-lime are the top 5 carbonates flavors in the market.
36% of consumers in the US and Canada seek sweet flavors in soft drinks, followed by fruit and superfruit flavors. This is reflected in the carbonated drinks prepared with a variety of flavors from fruits such as orange, cherry, lime, lemonade, lemon, pineapple, and berries to brown flavored options like cola, root beer, and honey. Apart from familiar fruit flavors, spice flavors like ginger, cardamom, and chili can attract attention with a unique blend of sweet and savory notes, aligning with current carbonated beverages trends.
What’s Next in Carbonated Beverages Trends?
Consumers in the US and Canada seek variety and novelty in carbonated beverages, with 1 in 4 increasing their consumption for this reason. The carbonated beverages market responds with a diverse selection, from club soda and tonic water to sparkling lemonades. Brands can explore alcohol-inspired selections like ginger ale, beer, and mojito, along with choices in fantasy flavors like mystery, cosmic, dream, and sunset, to further sustain consumer interest.
25% of consumers choose carbonated beverages when they want to indulge. At the same time, 37% believe limiting unhealthy ingredients is the best way to make indulgent foods and beverages healthier. This is reflected in the 30% CAGR growth in sugar-related claims, including sugar-free, no added sugar, and low sugar options. Brands can focus on preparations with naturally sourced low-calorie sweeteners, such as stevia and monk fruit, to appeal to health-conscious consumers. As consumer preferences evolve, brands that innovate with both flavor diversity and better-for-you formulations are likely to stay ahead in the competitive carbonated beverage market.
This article is based on Overview in Carbonates in the US & Canada report. This report is available to purchase or with an Innova Reports subscription. Reach out to find out more
