With almost a fifth (19%) of consumers globally searching for indulgence claims when buying ice cream and desserts, locust bean gum is set to thrive as the go-to choice for ice cream innovation. There has been a 10% average annual growth (2018-2022) for indulgence claims in ice cream launches with locust bean gum. As a great plant-based means of delivering texture, locust bean gum has become an ingredient of choice for non-dairy ice cream launches and has grown alongside ice creams boasting ethical claims. This Ingredient Focus is brought to you by Kerry.
Innova Market Insights data indicates growth in protein ingredient launches in food and beverage, with a 5% CAGR from October 2021 to September 2025. Europe leads with 43% of launches, Bakery is the top category at 17%, and milk protein is the most used ingredient at 21%. With 36% of consumers globally seeking high-quality protein, quality is becoming the focus.
Innova Market Insights data indicates that consumers globally associate indulgent F&B experiences with healthier enjoyment. The market is responding to this demand, with confectionery, bakery and snack launches featuring healthy claims growing at a 4% CAGR from July 2021 to June 2026, led by Europe with a 35% share of NPD, while bakery and snacks were the leading categories.
Innova Market Insights data show that consumers are increasingly seeking healthier indulgent snacks, particularly products that avoid ingredients perceived as unhealthy. Snack launches with healthy claims grew at a 7% CAGR from July 2021 to June 2026, with Asia leading globally. Fruit-based snacks were the leading subcategory.
Consumers globally are more willing to pay a premium for sustainable products when waste reduction and upcycled ingredients are part of the proposition, Innova Market Insights data suggests. Brands appear to be responding, with F&B launches with food waste claims recording a 15% CAGR from July 2021 to June 2026.
Innova Market Insights data shows that consumers are turning to sweet baked goods to satisfy their appetite for indulgence, fueling innovation across the Bakery category. Product launches grew at a 4% CAGR from July 2021 to June 2026, with Sweet Biscuits and Cookies accounting for more than one-third of launches and Cakes and Pastries continuing to gain momentum.
Innova Market Insights data indicates that consumers globally are reducing artificial ingredients in their diets to eat healthier. Global data also shows that clean label claims are gaining ground in food and beverage launches, with more than one-third of launches occurring in Europe. Cooking sauces and seasonings accounted for the largest share of launches, while soft drinks recorded the fastest growth in clean label claims.
