According to data from Innova Market Insights, the Soft Drink and Hot Drink categories with functional health claims grew by 8% from 2020 to 2024, with coffee leading innovation. Functional coffee launches surged 29%, while iced coffee grew 21%, driven by consumer demand for more than just a caffeine boost. The fastest-growing functional claims were added iron, immune support, and oral health benefits.

Innova Market Insights data indicates a growth in ethical claims for food & beverage launches globally from October 2019 to September 2024. Bakery (13%) was the leading category for eco-friendly launches, with Hot Drinks showing 11% growth and potential for innovation.

Brands are harnessing color and nostalgia, reviving limited-edition flavors in bold pink and red hues to spark desire and exclusivity. From ruby chocolates to cherry-infused carbonates, seasonal reinventions transform familiar treats into irresistible Valentine’s Day indulgences.

From October 2019 to September 2024, vegan product launches grew by 10% globally. Key highlights include bakery products, which accounted for 11% of vegan launches between October 2023 and September 2024. Notable growth categories over the five-year period include meat pastes and pâtés (+185%) and other soy/tofu products (+73%).

Innova Market Insights data indicates growth in vanilla ingredient use for food and beverage launches, with a 3% average annual increase from October 2019 to September 2024. Bakery and Confectionery were the most launched categories with vanilla, while its use in Sauces and seasonings increased by 38% over five years.

Innova Market Insights data reveals a 6% rise in food and beverage launches featuring texturizers from October 2019 to September 2024. The bakery category leads in the use of texturizing agents, while meat substitutes show rapid growth, with a notable 30% annual increase over the five-year period.

 Innova Market Insights data indicates an increase in Christmas themed launches over five years with 10% average annual growth from October 2019 to September 2024. Largest share of these launches was in Confectionery (40%), with Soft Drinks showing fast increase of 42% in five years.

According to Innova Market Insights data, nearly one out of three global consumers is actively limiting salt/sodium in their diet. Responding to this demand, brands are increasingly labeling products with no/reduced sodium claims on packaging. Between October 2023 and September 2024, Baby & Toddler, Sauces & Seasonings and Snacks were the top categories with these claims.

According to data from Innova Market Insights, food and beverage launches featuring spice and seed or smoked and roasted flavors grew by 7% from October 2019 to September 2024. Of these launches, 32% were in the Sauces and Seasonings category. There was also a 10% increase in savory influences within the Meat Substitutes sector, presenting new opportunities for innovation.