Allison Ellsworth, co-founder of Poppi, highlights the challenges of entering the beverage industry, noting that securing shelf space is "capital intensive." She emphasizes the evolving "MAHA" movement that is reshaping industry norms. This shift has significant implications for major companies, exemplified by Pepsi's acquisition of Poppi in 2025 for nearly $2 billion, indicating a trend toward alternative soda brands gaining traction in the market.

Beverage manufacturers are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence (AI)-driven platforms to enhance inspection processes. These advanced technologies facilitate smoother operations by ensuring that products meet quality standards. The integration of AI in inspection equipment allows for more efficient monitoring and detection of issues, ultimately contributing to improved operational efficiency within the beverage industry. This trend reflects a growing reliance on technology to optimize production and maintain quality control.

Consumers are increasingly drawn to visually striking, tropical, and functional beverages, prompting brands and restaurants to innovate their offerings. This trend highlights the importance of aesthetics and functionality in beverage choices, as visually appealing products capture consumer attention and drive purchasing decisions. As a result, the beverage market is evolving to meet these changing consumer preferences, emphasizing the need for brands to adapt and innovate.

The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation is set to take effect on 12 August 2026, but businesses are still grappling with uncertainties regarding compliance requirements. As the deadline approaches, there is a growing call for European institutions to take responsibility and provide clear, practical solutions that will guide the industry in meeting the new regulations effectively. Clarity is essential for businesses to prepare adequately.

Delaware lawmakers have introduced three bills in the current session aimed at regulating the sale and use of energy drinks and caffeinated products. These legislative efforts reflect growing concerns regarding the consumption of such beverages and their potential health impacts. The proposed regulations seek to establish guidelines for the marketing and distribution of these drinks within the state, addressing public health considerations.

The stock price of the leading company in China's energy drink market has halved since early this year, primarily due to the fallout from a fake video that negatively impacted its reputation. In response to this crisis, the company has adopted a stringent approach to manage the situation and mitigate further damage. The incident has raised concerns about owner risk affecting investor confidence and market stability.

Morocco is significantly increasing its presence in Germany's fruit market, with orange exports reaching new heights in the 2025/26 season. From November 2025 to April 2026, Germany imported 8,800 tons of Moroccan oranges valued at over EUR 11.4 million. This figure is 2.5 times greater than the total shipments from the previous year, positioning Morocco to potentially become one of the top five orange suppliers to Germany.

Want to dive deeper in citrus? Coming in 2026: citrodex.com

T. Hasegawa has published its 2026 summer report, which is available for free and focuses on emerging trends in the food industry. The report emphasizes the significance of both savory and sweet flavors, reflecting current consumer preferences. This publication aims to provide insights for stakeholders in the food sector, helping them understand and adapt to evolving market demands and flavor profiles.

At IFT First, Prinova will present insights on technical advancements in clear pea protein aimed at addressing solubility and taste challenges faced by ready-to-drink and ready-to-mix beverage manufacturers. The discussion will focus on how these innovations can enhance the quality and appeal of functional beverages, providing manufacturers with effective solutions to improve product performance and consumer satisfaction in a competitive market.

Mandatory Nutri-Grade front-of-pack labels for beverages have been shown to redirect household consumers towards healthier drink choices and motivate manufacturers to reformulate products to reduce sugar content. This initiative aims to address the significant role sugary drinks play in excessive sugar consumption and the associated risk of chronic diseases. The study highlights the potential of labeling to influence consumer behavior and industry practices.

The study investigates the geographical variations in fruit quality of Newhall navel oranges, a significant citrus variety in China. It systematically compares oranges from 13 different production regions, focusing on the volatile metabolites present. Additionally, the research analyzes the relationships between these metabolites and various meteorological factors, aiming to identify key drivers behind the observed quality differences across the production areas.

Prickly pear juice (Opuntia ficus-indica [L.] Mill, orange variety) was spray dried using various carriers, including maltodextrin and whey protein isolate in different ratios. The study examined the effects of these carriers on the yield and properties of the resulting powder. Results indicated that the choice of carrier significantly influenced the efficiency of spray drying and the quality attributes of the powder produced.