By: De’Airius Salibi, Ideation Manager
In this article, you will learn about:
- The major beverage trends driving today’s coffee sector
- What’s hot in cold, and ever-so-sweet and nostalgic
- How aromatics and new ingredients are marking their mark
A Trip to the 2024 Specialty Coffee Expo
At Leahy-IFP, we specialize in high-acid aseptic manufacturing, but we don’t limit our pursuit of expanding our industry knowledge to only aseptic juice-based beverages. We strive to be beverage experts on the whole. That’s why I headed into the city for the 2024 Specialty Coffee Expo in April.
We exhibit at many large national shows, but sometimes we simply attend shows where we aren’t exhibiting. We “walk tradeshows” to see what’s happening in the industry, get inspired and gain insights that make us a better resource for our customers.
Usually, this process affirms what we already know, or it expands our knowledge of a particular burgeoning trend. I came back from the Specialty Coffee Expo eager to share what I learned about burgeoning trends and confident that the direction Leahy-IFP is headed is one that will best serve our customers.
Below are my takeaways from the 2024 Specialty Coffee Expo – I hope you enjoy!
Pump It Up—Refreshers with Functionality:
Beverages infused with functional ingredients such as prebiotics, adaptogens, coconut water for hydration, green coffee extract, guayusa, essential amino acids, and B Vitamins offer more than just refreshment—they provide targeted benefits for health and well-being. From boosting energy and focus to supporting gut health and hydration, these refreshers cater to consumers’ multifaceted needs in an increasingly health-conscious market.
Sensational Chai Experiencing A Heightened State:
With its rich blend of spices and aromas, chai continues to captivate coffee enthusiasts looking for a flavorful alternative. Whether enjoyed traditionally or infused into specialty coffee beverages, chai offers a comforting and aromatic experience that appeals to a diverse range of palates.
Breakfast & Dessert Flavors Hit Sweet Spot:
Drawing inspiration from beloved morning staples and sweet treats and crafted by skilled artisans, these creations are infused with flavors that evoke memories of comforting breakfasts and indulgent desserts. From cereal milk-flavored dairy alternatives to inventive blends such as blueberry pancake and ginger brûlée coffee, these offerings aim to transport consumers to a realm of nostalgia and delight with every sip.
Spirulina – The Vivid Natural Blue Alternative Seeing Rise:
As consumers seek healthier and more vibrant beverage options, spirulina emerges as a natural blue alternative for color enhancement. Beyond its striking hue, spirulina also boasts potential nutritional benefits, adding a hint of earthiness to beverages while offering potential health perks.
Creative and Innovative Use of Ube in Beverage Continues to Ripen:
Ube is a Filipino yam distinguished by its vibrant purple hue and delicate sweetness. It serves as a perfect ingredient for coffee and beverage innovations. Incorporating ube into drinks, such as the Black Sesame Nitro Latte topped with Ube Cold Foam, results in visually striking and luxurious concoctions. These indulgent beverages are sure to captivate those seeking unique and Instagram-worthy drinks.
Lavender’s Timeless and Complex Sensory Profile Always on Point:
Lavender-infused coffee and beverages provide a sensory experience that delights the senses and promotes relaxation. The delicate floral notes of lavender complement the robust flavors of coffee, creating a harmonious blend that transports consumers to a tranquil state of mind with each sip.
Mushroom-infused Coffee Still Growing Among Us:
Mushroom-infused coffee blends gain traction among health-conscious consumers seeking functional beverages. With the potential benefits of mushrooms such as improved focus and immune support, mushroom coffee offers a unique flavor profile and a potential boost to overall well-being.
We want to create a more fruitful life for everyone and one of the best ways we can do that is by being an expert resource for you—our customer and partner. That’s why we keep our pulse on all beverage trends. Our R&D and Marketing teams are always eager to share their knowledge of the beverage industry so that our customers can thrive right along with us.
At Leahy-IFP, we are committed to making a more fruitful life for everyone. Thank you Crain’s! We are honored to be ranked on such a prestigious list and wish to thank all of our team members, our customers and our extended network of partner suppliers, distributors, and vendors. Together, we can.
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