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 a 5% average annual increase in food & beverage launches featuring preservatives, with natural preservatives driving this trend as consumers prioritize clean-label choices. Europe leads the market, accounting for 42% of such launches, while bakery and sauce products are at the forefront of innovation in preservative use.
Innova Market Insights data indicates that texture has become a key factor for consumers seeking indulgent snacks. Between October 2019 and September 2024, snack NPD increased by 3%. Snack nuts and seeds emerged as the top global snack subcategory, while crispy textures drove innovation in the category. Additionally, the rapid growth of spicy snack launches worldwide presents new opportunities for innovation.
Innova Market Insights data reveals that plant-based claims have increased by 17% between October 2019 and September 2024. Globally, 42% of consumers associate the term "plant-based" with health. While dairy remains the leading category for plant-based product launches, the confectionery sector is experiencing the fastest growth. Over half of plant-based product launches also carry a vegan claim. Additionally, yeast protein ingredients are becoming more prominent in plant-based products.
Innova Market Insights’ Top Trends for 2025 highlight quality ingredients as a key selling point for brands. Globally, 42% of consumers associate quality with health benefits, driving an increase in health claims for food and beverage launches. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on digestion and beauty-related claims in the industry.
Innova Market Insights data reveals a +5% increase in food and beverage launches containing preservatives from October 2019 to September 2024. Europe led the market, accounting for 42% of these launches, with the Bakery category making up 13% as the top segment. Notably, plant-based claims are experiencing rapid growth among preservative-inclusive launches, with citric acid emerging as the leading preservative ingredient.
With global consumers increasingly prioritizing sustainability, sustainable F&B launches are on a steady growth path. According to data by Innova Market Insights, F&B launches with sustainable ingredients saw a 7% average annual growth rate across various categories between July 2019 and June 2024. From July 2023 to June 2024, over half of these launches were in Europe. Key ingredients like cocoa, wheat, and milk are driving innovation in this space.
