Snacks now have a larger base in the food and beverage industry due to well-received innovation in the category. Snacks continue to get healthier, simpler and smaller as consumers’ health and wellness goals have become more prominent. The most recent snack trends target specific meal occasions such as breakfast, and U.S. dairy ingredients can deliver in these product development efforts.

U.S. Dairy is delivering on top trends at multiple conferences to serve up ideas for product developers to take advantage of the functionality, taste and nutrition that dairy has to offer. From clean label and reduced sodium to energy and globally inspired flavors, U.S. dairy ingredients have an important role in nourishing consumer-inspired foods and beverages seen throughout these events.

Consumers have many reasons to crave protein. One common and understandable perception featured by nutrition research specialist Mickey Rubin on DairyGood is that an energy boost is near the top of the list. However, while protein offers many benefits, energy is not foremost among them.

Globally in 2014, UNICEF reported 159 million children under age five were stunted, so delivering improved nutrition – especially in the first 1,000 days of a child’s life – is critical to help mitigate the devastating impact of malnutrition. Just-published proceedings shed further light on the latest scientific advancements on the beneficial nutritional role of dairy ingredients for vulnerable populations.   

Three highly respected organizations recently released a new position paper on sports nutrition touting the benefits of dairy protein. In it, the American College of Sports Medicine, The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the Dietitians of Canada take a fresh look at protein recommendations for athletes of all levels. Specifically, when and how often protein should be consumed.