In a survey from FMCG Gurus, the majority of respondents (58%) planned to increase their fruit intake as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and 41% planned to consume more vegetables.1 In the U.S., retail sales for fresh fruit were up 8.7% YOY at the end Q4 2020, and vegetable sales climbed by 14.8%, according to IRI.2
For manufacturers, fruits and vegetables offer more than powerful nutritional benefits – they’re also a source of natural color and flavor. Freeze-drying makes it even easier to leverage these benefits for food and beverage innovations.
Here are four ways you can use freeze-dried ingredients to add value to functional products and supplements:
Freeze-dried blueberries bring a pop of color and enhanced nutrition to this elegant yogurt parfait. Garnish with sweet baked toppings for added visual appeal, or incorporate the sweet baked pieces into your granola layer for even more flavor and texture.
2. Infuse flavor and nutrition in tea and water
With a crisp, melt-in-the-mouth texture, people will love the addition of freeze-dried smoothie pieces in snack and trail mixes. Pair with savory baked toppings, or a mix of freeze-dried fruits and veggie pieces for the perfect sweet and salty blend.
3. Add texture to nutrition bars
With a crisp, melt-in-the-mouth texture, people will love the addition of freeze-dried smoothie pieces in snack and trail mixes. Pair with savory baked toppings, or a mix of freeze-dried fruits and veggie pieces for the perfect sweet and salty blend.
4. Formulate natural supplements
Freeze-dried fruits retain natural sugars and quickly infuse in hot or cold liquid, releasing flavor almost instantly. Try superfood ingredients like raspberry, guava, or monk fruit for natural fruit flavor and vibrant color in your next smoothie innovation.
Whether you’re working on something new or reformulating to meet new trends, our R&D team can work with you to find a solution that adds value. Contact us today at customer.services@chaucerfoods.com to request a sample or more information.
2“Retail produce sales can’t keep up with 2020 figures, but demand remains solid,” Blue Book Services. April 15, 2021
3“Asia-Pacific embraces immune-health focused beverages,” Natural Products Insider. March 29, 2021.