Exploring the Beverage Industry's Upcoming Trends in 2023

Beverage trends are shifting towards lighter flavours to create a more balanced taste palette for all drinks, whereas for the new generation of consumers, beer and spirits are more appealing when they are sweeter and have more flavour varieties.

FREMONT, CA: Beverage trends are leaning more towards light flavours, to create a balanced taste palette for all drinks, whereas the world of spirits is leaning towards the best of both worlds, with spirits that have sweeter and fuller flavours while also exploring lighter options.

Colour trends - less is more

With new beverages hitting the shelves daily, consumers are gravitating towards products with more natural components and colouring, while avoiding products with artificial colours and ingredients. Colour is no longer as important in beverages as flavour and function. The increased popularity of cans over glass or plastic bottles is also responsible for the lack of colour. Clean labelling marketing on aluminium cans provides an opportunity to promote natural ingredients. Colour is becoming less important, especially in the world of distilled spirits. Spirits have largely remained faithful to caramel and natural colouring. In a nutshell, consumers believe that when it comes to colour, less is more and that whatever colour exists must be minimal.

Ingredient trends - function is important

Aside from colour trends, product ingredients are becoming more functional and healthy. Consumers last year desired bolder ingredients for nostalgic flavours with guilt-free indulgence, but this year's trend is more balanced and health-conscious. Ingredients that are both beneficial and tasty desired by developers. Even added sugars are being phased out of beverages in favour of juice's natural sugars.

A perfect blend of flavour trends

Citrus flavours, sweeter spirit-flavoured cocktails, and flavours used in ready-to-drink beverages have all seen an increase, according to experts. With increased interest in orange, grapefruit, lime, and other berry blends, the flavour trend is shifting towards straightforward citruses. Botanical extracts such as butterfly pea flower, black tea, and chamomile are also becoming increasingly popular.

Health and Wellness Beverages

Consumers are becoming more health-conscious, and there is a growing demand for functional beverages that offer added health benefits. This trend will continue in 2023, with an increased focus on natural, plant-based, and nutrient-dense ingredients.

Non-Alcoholic Beverages

The demand for non-alcoholic beverages is growing, as more people choose to live a sober or low-alcohol lifestyle. This trend is likely to continue in 2023, with more creative and sophisticated non-alcoholic options such as mocktails, shrubs, and botanical infusions.

Sustainability

Consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of their purchases, including beverages. This trend will continue in 2023, with more eco-friendly packaging and ingredients, and a focus on reducing waste and carbon emissions throughout the supply chain.

Artisanal Beverages

Consumers are seeking out unique and artisanal beverages that offer a more personalised and authentic experience. This trend is likely to continue in 2023, with a growing interest in craft beer, small-batch spirits, and speciality coffee and tea.

Convenience and Portability

With busy lifestyles, consumers are looking for beverages that are easy to consume on the go. This trend will continue in 2023, with more innovative packaging and formats such as single-serve bottles, pouches, and cans.