Better for You

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A new IFIC survey finds nearly half of Americans quickly recognized the updated Dietary Guidelines and Food Pyramid, but many remain unclear on how to apply the advice. The findings highlight ongoing challenges — and opportunities — in communicating nutrition guidance, particularly around cost perceptions, protein priorities and emerging food trends.

Mitra9 is expanding its beverage portfolio with Bubbly Pop, a functional soda inspired by nostalgic cola and champagne flavors. The launch highlights growing interest in approachable, flavor-driven wellness drinks designed for casual, social consumption.

The Cycle is expanding its ready-to-drink portfolio with two beverages designed for perimenopause and menopause. The launch reflects growing interest in functional drinks targeting women’s health across life stages.

FLRT enters the energy drink category with a zero-sugar formulation featuring 200mg of caffeine and added vitamins and minerals. The product reflects continued demand for functional beverages that support energy, focus and wellness benefits.

The brand is repositioning hydration to address broader consumer needs beyond athletics. The shift highlights opportunities for clearer messaging and lower-sugar formulations in a crowded category.

The brand adds two functional beverages to its growing RTD portfolio. The launches reflect rising demand for multifunctional drinks beyond traditional energy and hydration.

The brand expands its gut health beverage lineup with a citrus-forward flavor now at Whole Foods. The launch reflects continued innovation in pre- and probiotic drinks.

Botanical ingredients like curcumin, ashwagandha and quercetin continue to gain traction in immune health, but questions remain around efficacy, dosing and bioavailability. For product developers, the research underscores the importance of formulation strategies, standardization and ingredient synergies to deliver meaningful functional benefits.

Mojo Energy Pouches introduced a Sour Apple variety, expanding its zero-sugar, pouch-based caffeine lineup with a green tea-derived formulation. The format’s portability and mix-and-match flavor potential highlight evolving opportunities for product developers exploring alternative caffeine delivery systems beyond traditional beverages.

VitaCup launched creatine-infused coffee stick packs, delivering a clinically studied dose of creatine alongside vitamins and caffeine in a portable format. The innovation highlights growing opportunities for developers to merge sports nutrition ingredients with everyday beverage routines.