Emotional responses will drive a majority of food and beverage purchase decisions in 2017, according to the recently unveiled Top 10 Trends of 2017 by Innova Market Insights. Consumers are taking control of their diets and choosing products that are personalized to their lifestyle, hobbies, health and experiences. U.S. dairy ingredients support a majority of these trends with their mild flavor, nutrition benefits and familiarity.

U.S. dairy proteins have a reputation as a key ingredient for sports nutrition products. Now, consumers are finding that dairy proteins can go beyond sports nutrition with a whole set of benefits that pertain to all ages and lifestyles. Susan Larson explains how the appeal of dairy proteins is expanding to offer benefits in several key trend areas in the latest Dairy Detective column from Dairy Foods magazine.

The number of consumers older than 64 is increasing at a high rate, causing food and beverage brands to reconsider their target audiences. By 2060, the population is predicted to contain 98 million seniors, which is more than twice the number in 2014.¹ This growth, and the longing for greater independence late in life, makes addressing the health and wellness needs of seniors a factor for new, successful innovations.

Protein is an integral part of the daily diet, whether for strength training or for trying to preserve muscle mass throughout the aging process. A recently published review study in Nutrition and Metabolism¹ suggests that the quality of protein consumed for muscle building is more important than previously perceived, with whey protein’s high leucine content providing clear muscle benefits.

The growing amount of candy popping up in pantries and store aisles is a sign the holidays are nearing. This is an exciting sight for kids, but many parents fear over-indulgence. With the changes within the food and beverage industry, this holiday behavior is an opportunity for formulators to serve parents better-for-you confections with the taste and flavors kids know and love.