FMI Connect
Bountiful botanicals: herb infusions and floral flavors gain traction
In the past three years, herb-flavored beverages have grown 7%, according to data from The Coca-Cola Co. and the marketing agency Food IQ. Examples range from the increased use of mint and basil in mainstream products to drinking vinegar and dandelion greens in more cutting edge beverages, including green juices and teas, Mindy Armstrong, director of insights and innovation at Food IQ noted. She added that “floral flavors are off the charts and growing like crazy” in beverages, especially rose, hibiscus and lavender. To illustrate the appeal and versatility of botanicals at FMI Connect, Coca-Cola and Food IQ blended mint leaves with Zico Raspberry Watermelon flavored coconut water, strawberry slices and vanilla syrup.