To keep pace with ever-changing consumer preferences and tastes, food and beverage brands have released innovative – and sometimes category-redefining – products around the world this year. Here we round up ten of the best.
Stevia-sweetened green cola
In the UK, Green Cola aimed to provide a healthier cola alternative with the introduction of its stevia-sweetened beverage. Containing no sugar, preservatives or aspartame, it was branded as a drink that offers the taste of other colas ‘but without all the bad stuff’.
Snact unwanted banana bars
Eco-conscious snack producer Snact introduced a range of bars using bananas that would otherwise go to waste. Snact said the bars have been created to help reduce the ‘1.4 million edible bananas’ that are thrown away in the UK every day. A trio of banana-based snack bars were launched in three flavours: apple and cinnamon, carrot and spice, and beetroot and cacao.
Après plant-based protein drinks
US beverage company Après launched a range of plant-based protein drinks made with a blend of coconut oil and coconut water. Made with organic protein from pea, chia, cacao, and hemp, the drinks are available in three flavours: mint cacao, sea salt chocolate, and chai spiced vanilla.
Craft canned cocktails
Aiming to exploit shoppers’ ongoing love affair with craft drinks, HappyDown released a range of sparking cocktails in three ‘unique’ flavour combinations: lychee, guava and chilli; lemon, cucumber and mint; and raspberry, pomegranate and basil. The cocktails are based on fortified wine and are 4% ABV.
Avocado chocolate
Chocolate brand Love Cocoa claimed to have introduced Europe’s ‘first ever’ avocado chocolate bar. Containing 70% organic dark chocolate, the product consists of natural freeze dried avocado pulp powder, which the brand says contains the same taste, texture and nutrients of the green fruit.
Natural energy drinks with guarana
Brain Füd introduced a line of ‘smarter energy drinks’ as an alternative to coffee and high-sugar beverages. Made with still water, fruit juices and guarana, the range is available in three flavours: berry and coconut, pineapple and ginger, and citrus and mint. Each low-calorie drink is said to contain ‘seven functional vitamins and minerals which contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue’.
Fruit-flavoured cream cheeses
Yooli Foods launched a range of artisan cream cheeses, which it billed as a ‘satisfying alternative to yogurt’. Called Yooli Cremes, the product can be kept frozen and defrosted, or refrigerated and enjoyed cold. The range comes in three flavours – honey lemon, strawberry, and vanilla – and is said to be 99% lactose free and gluten free.
Frozen smoothie kits
Pack’d aimed to reinvent the protein shake category with the launch of its trio of frozen protein smoothie kits. Designed with sports nutritionists, the packs contain a mix of frozen fruit and vegetables with a blend of organic whey protein. The range is available in three flavours: cherry choc, apple crumble, and strawberry shake. Ingredients include: beetroot, sweet potato, fig, cherry, acai and lucuma.
Smoked salmon jerky
European jerky producer Meatsnacks Group added Speyside Smokehouse salmon jerky to its portfolio. Made in the Scottish Highlands, the jerky uses Scottish Atlantic-farmed salmon which is is trimmed and deboned, prior to being marinated overnight. The marinade is made using store cupboard ingredients such as soya sauce, apple cider vinegar, black pepper and sea salt. The salmon is then slowly cooked and smoked over beech wood.
Cactus and watermelon waters
In July, Water Works launched a cactus water and watermelon water in the UK. The drinks are positioned as healthier alternatives to sugary soft drinks and sports drinks. They are inspired by the rise in alternative waters with similar functions and hydration benefits to coconut water.
Disclaimer:
This article was first published by Mr. Jules Scully on FoodBev Media.
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