Food Industry Regulation: In-Depth with Labels

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Food Industry Regulation: In-Depth with Labels

Food is all about flavor. It’s an important characteristic of the food we eat every day. You know how fresh foods taste when you make them at home? Fresh bread right from the oven, fresh squeezed orange juice, warm and buttery popcorn. But you can’t always get those fresh flavors, which is where processed foods come in. However, the preservation methods that give processed foods shelf life tend to reduce flavor. So food manufacturers turn to add natural flavors to enhance or maintain the flavor of the food after it’s processed. With that in mind, how do you classify these flavors on labels?

Consumers are getting smarter and savvier when it comes to their food. Regulations for labels constantly change. Both closely examine labels and the requirements for foods to claim certain tags. Consumers also tend to develop more brand loyalty when they feel confident in a food’s ingredient claims. Ensuring you understand the terminology used in specific labels helps classify what your product’s flavor is called on a label. Take a look at our breakdown below to see where your product falls in the category of flavor labeling.

Here’s a list of descriptions of a few key flavor labeling terms used (using Strawberry as an example):

Natural Strawberry Flavor:

Flavors labeled “natural” must only have natural ingredients from the flavor you claim on the label. In this example, the flavors only come from real Strawberries.  This means the essential oil, essence or extractive, protein hydrolysate, or any product of enzymolysis, is derived from a strawberry.

Natural Strawberry (With Other Natural Flavors):

For this label, a flavor contains all natural flavor ingredients, but the flavors are derived from Strawberry as well as other natural flavors. In this instance, Natural Strawberry might be flavored with compounds derived from other berries such as Apple, Raspberry, Blueberry, Pear, etc.

Strawberry Type Flavor:

“Type” appears on labels when you create a flavor from natural ingredients without using the actual label’s flavor. For example, a Strawberry Type flavor is made entirely from natural flavor combinations like Apple, Raspberry, and Pear, but no Strawberry. It’s important to remember this flavor is still derived from all natural ingredients.

Artificial Strawberry Flavor:

You use this particular flavor label when you combine artificial “Strawberry” compounds with other synthetic ingredients.  Artificial flavors are made from non-food sources while natural flavors come from foods or other edible things. The flavor source can contain another natural flavor besides Strawberry, but if the label says “artificial” in it, it includes synthetic “Strawberry” ingredients as well.

Natural and Artificial Strawberry Flavor:

Like it’s name suggests, Natural and Artificial Strawberry flavor contains flavors that naturally come from Strawberry plus other artificial ingredients. The natural flavors come from Strawberry or Strawberry derivatives, or other flavors from a natural source.

Where does your product fit in the list of terminology? Do you have any questions about the flavors in your product? Or want to make any adjustments? Our world-class flavor library and top-rated flavor chemists are ready to help. Call us today to get started.

Hot Trend: Summer Alcoholic Popsicle Ideas

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Summer alcoholic popsicle ideas

Hot Trend: Summer Alcoholic Popsicle Ideas

 

Looking to change up your next party with fun new summer alcoholic popsicle ideas? Yep, one of the hottest trends as we head into warm summer days and long summer nights, is boozy popsicles. Cocktail popsicles turn up the fun factor and are a cool, leveled up version of your favorite childhood treat. And we’ve got the flavor profiles you need for all of your summer’s alcoholic popsicle ideas.

Of course, our favorite part of these boozy ice pops, are all of the flavor possibilities. A peach schnapps pop would be exquisite while lounging beside the pool. Or you may go for the mint julep – a refreshing, cool mint combined with a simple bourbon is even more delicious when frozen. We also think a sangria with all of it’s fruity flavors would be a great choice. And not to be forgotten, a classic citrus combination of orange and peach accompanied by white wine is always a win. Margaritas are also a fantastic, slushy way to cool off this summer, and lend themselves well to being frozen into popsicles. There’s endless summer alcoholic popsicle ideas when it comes to margaritas, just start with a base such as watermelon, peach, apple, strawberry, and you’re good to go!

Also jumping on this trend are companies in the food and beverage industry. For example, many bars are offering popsicles as menu items- just blend up a medley of mangoes, citrus, berries, even veggies, and add a splash of wine or vodka, and they’ve got a trendy, Instagram-worthy menu item. Other restaurants are looking to alcoholic drinks to get inspiration for their dessert menu, and combining alcohol with the nostalgia of childhood- vodka and gummy bear popsicles have been a popular menu item at up and coming niche restaurants.

Alcoholic popsicles are a great way to serve something unique at your next backyard BBQ or party. And good news! They’re so simple to make. Below is one of our favorite recipes for this hot trend. If you have your own ideas for your own summer alcoholic popsicle ideas or flavor combinations, give our flavor library a glance to see how we can help you. We’d love to hear what you’re working on, or what popsicle you’re planning on making this summer.

 

Summer alcoholic popsicle ideas

Strawberry Mojito Pops (recipe from Delish.com)

YIELDS:6
TOTAL TIME:8 HOURS 30 MINS
INGREDIENTS
1/2 c. rum
3/4 c. chopped strawberries
2 c. limeade
4 oz. fresh lime juice
8 mint leaves, chopped
6 wooden popsicle sticks

 

DIRECTIONS
  1. Mix all ingredients together then evenly divide mixture into popsicle molds.
  2. Chill popsicle molds in freezer for about 20 to 30 minutes or until liquid is slightly frozen.
  3. Add wooden popsicle sticks and freeze overnight.
  4. Run warm water over molds to loosen popsicles and serve.

Top Summer Citrus flavor trends

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there are multiple flavors of summer citrusTop Summer Citrus flavor trends

 

Every year, we try and predict the top flavor trends for the season. Right now, we’re seeing a lot of citrus coming up for summer. Flavors are leaning toward being fresh and simple for summer. As the world focuses on “better-for-you” options, citrus helps brands bridge that gap of health and flavorful products. These citrus also offer an elevated boost of vitamin C that is appealing to health-conscious consumers.

Exotic Citrus

Lemon and lime will always be a staple in the citrus profile category. There will also be more exotic citrus flavors taking center stage this summer. Blood orange, nectarine and passionfruit are seeing a rise in popularity. They’re a great way to add strong flavor to a product without using much to achieve that bold profile. These exotic flavors will become more common. Passionfruit and nectarine add a fresh sweetness that is light but strong. Tart profiles such as blood orange and apricot will be a great compliment to sour and tangy flavors. Citrus is a great way to keep flavors fresh-  something consumers will search for through the summer.

Different beverages we’re seeing this trend in are the sparkling water and alcoholic drinks. Seltzers and mineral waters are starting to come out with bright bold citrus flavors for the summer. But they still keep a healthy image because of the light and fresh profiles citrus flavors bring. To keep consumers feeling brave to branch out to new flavors, brands are mixing flavors. They’re combining more popular flavors such as lemon and lime with lesser-tried flavors such as guava and passionfruit.

According to an article in Food and Business News, “Exotic fruits from Latin American and Southeast Asian countries will continue to be a fast-growing flavor category,” said Holly McHugh, marketing associate, Imbibe, Niles, Ill. “Up-and-coming flavors include passionfruit, guava and dragon fruit.”

Alcoholic Drinks

Alcoholic drinks are also adding citrus to drinks to keep flavors feeling fresh and adventurous for summer.

bright summer citrus

Citrus also lends itself well to the “clean label” trend we have been seeing. Natural flavors that show “natural” ingredients give consumers a peace of mind they’re longing for in our current climate. Transparency in labels is easier when you’re using one of our custom built flavor systems. Citrus flavors always looks fresh and clean on labels and give consumers a sense of comfort. Consumers are looking for products that optimize that healthier lifestyle. Consumers also tend to associate these kinds of flavors with wellness. As a consequence, they see products with associated flavors as “better-for-you,” clean label products. 

Transparency has, time and time again, proven to be important to consumers. With health and wellness driving current trends, consumers are looking for drinks that optimize nutritional value and support healthier living. As demand continues to increase for natural flavors, citrus and exotic citrus are becoming prevalent as flavorful additions. More health-conscious trends reflect a market shift towards flavors that maximize quality and functionality while packing a punch. Citrus and exotics, as flavors, have the advantage of delivering on both. Let us help you create a citrus flavor that is light and fresh without compromising on bold flavor.

Summer Flavor Trends

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Summer Flavor Trends

Well, the year 2020 has already brought many surprises. While we can’t predict much of what’s in store as far as daily life goes, we do know one thing. Flavors will still be here and an important part of daily life. In a time with so much uncertainty, bold, bright flavors can provide a sense of normalcy and consistency. This year, we are predicting a rise in a few unique flavors for summer flavor trends that would be useful to keep in mind as you work to meet consumer demand in business.

As far as consumer behaviors go, we’re seeing a trend similar to our current global climate. Technomic’s 2019 Flavor Consumer Trend Report found that 40% of 18–34 year olds are branching out to find new or unique flavors. In their findings, 80% of all survey respondents said that they either “actively seek out flavors to try on a regular basis” or “like trying new flavors from time to time” (Technomic 2019). This summer is a great time to add variety to your flavors. People are looking for something new to provide entertainment in a time that can otherwise be somewhat mundane from day-to-day. New flavors will provide a reinvigorated interest in your brand.

Shannon Cushen, marketing director at Fuchs North America, said “Consumers, specifically millennials and Gen Z, get bored incredibly easy these days. They are always seeking out new and different flavors and taste sensations.”

Top summer flavor trends we’re seeing right now are florals, earthy, hot, and tangy. Let’s dive into each of these more.

FLORAL

Snacks, beverages, and bakery industries are leading the way in floral flavors. According to IFT.org, in Q3 2017 and Q3 2018, there were 4,495 product introductions globally using floral flavors. We’re seeing an upswing in classical flavors like lavender and rose, as well as newer flavors like hibiscus, rose, cherry blossom, orange blossom, and jasmine. In addition to their health benefits, florals can bring a beautiful visual element to foods and beverages. In the day and age of Instagram and visual appeal being as important as taste, consumers eat with their eyes as much as they do their stomachs. Product taste is what makes the consumer return, but the visuals play an important role in persuading them to even select that product in the first place. Brands should absolutely explore how to play up floral flavors and visual appeal.

EARTHY

With the rise in health-conscious consumers, any flavors that hint at earthy, natural flavors will be a popular summer flavor trend. Think herbs, spices, roots, and other botanical flavors. Several of the fastest-growing herbs and spices, such as turmeric and cumin add a rich flavor to products. Turmeric is now appearing in a multitude of products and recipes—from lattes to savory roasted carrots with turmeric and cumin. Even golden milk is gaining popularity because of it’s rich golden color and bold flavor.

HEAT

When it comes to heat, consumers want a more complex variety than they’ve seen before. This hyper-specificity comes from the desire to learn more fully about what they are eating and consuming.

 

TANGY

Japanese flavors are gaining popularity, and one flavor is going to be hitting the Western world in a big way- yuzu. Yuzu is a tart Japanese citrus fruit that tastes like a cross between a lime and a grapefruit. It’s a unique combination of familiar flavors which gives consumers the confidence to branch out and trying something new. Already popular in fine dining, beverages and confections abroad, yuzu is starting to pop up in savory applications and snacks. As yuzu starts to appear on more U.S. menus, experts predict it will begin filtering down to mainstream products like marinades and dressings or alcoholic beverages.

As you look to adapt to upcoming summer flavor trends, we have a few suggestions on how to implement these new flavors. “Much like all trends, we see that people are more comfortable trying new flavors in one of two ways,” explains Cyndie Lipka, master flavorist at Prinova USA, a Nagase Group Company. “One is if they are supported with other flavors that they enjoy, as a flavor combination. The second is to realize or associate it as something close to what they already know and love.”

Because of the low cost of snacks, it is a great place to introduce new flavors. If consumers want to try something new, snacks are low-cost, low-risk financially. And if they like what they try, they’re more willing to branch out and try more new flavors.

We’re looking forward to seeing how you incorporate new flavors into your products. Our vast flavor library and our knowledgable flavor chemists are great resources as you look to expand your flavor profiles.

UNPA Sensapue Event with Industry Leaders

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UNPA Sensapue Event with Industry Leaders

Last month, we had the pleasure to collaborate with the United Natural Products Alliance (UNPA). We hosted an inspiring and influential event tapping into the world-class expertise of industry leaders. Addressing four significant opportunities for product development in the nutraceutical/ sports nutrition industry. These industry leaders provided thought-provoking insight on what’s next for the world of nutrition and beyond.

Active Ingredient Pathways

Shawn Wells, CEO of Halo Research and ingredient innovator, shared his knowledge on up-and-coming active ingredients sure to create new pathways for the industry. Focusing on the power of raw materials, Wells expanded on how brands and manufacturers can utilize the benefits of fresh game-changing ingredients to take their products to the top shelf. Wells gave us insight into ways we can work to manipulate product bases containing innovative ingredients to better serve our clients.

Shawn Wells (left,) CEO of Halo Research, and Jeff Reynolds, Founder, and CEO of Sensapure Flavors and Dyad Labs.

Industry Leaders Inspired Us

In a presentation titled “What You Should Know Before the FDA Comes Calling,” GMP and FDA compliance expert Jasmina Kanazir gave us an inside look at the evolving landscape of current regulations and compliances. With first-hand experience on how to navigate the rules and requirements surrounding product development, Kanazir inspired our audience with her innovative approach to resource-saving solutions. While new products are entering the market every day, Kanazir and her team continue to emphasize the importance of accurate testing methods and label claim verification. As industry leaders, it was inspiring to hear from them.

Jasmina Kanazir, an expert in quality, process, and efficiency, shares her experience in improving the compliance process for brands and manufacturers across the board.

During the lunch break, attendees took tours of our brand new space and had lunch complete with Sensapure flavored drinks, of course.

Intellectual Property

We also had the privilege to hear from Joe Chang, Nu Skin’s Science Officer,  who highlighted the import role of product development in building a brands value. Through ingredient innovation and research, NU skin has not only built a $3 Billion brand but has demonstrated how to make cutting edge technology a key part of the product development process.

Chang explained how controlling your intellectual property and managing your manufacturer can be components in building and growing your brands’ value.

Dr. Joe Chang, Chief Science Officer for NuSkin International shares his process for maximizing product innovation.

Aaron Secrist, Vice President of Quality and Regulatory Affairs at now, highlighted the importance of shelf life validation in brand integrity. While shelf life dating is currently voluntary, brands and manufacturers who lean into the benefits of shelf life dating can minimize their liability significantly. At Sensapure, we consider shelf life stability as a vital part of product development, and we were eager to gain more insight on this expansive opportunity for brands and manufacturers.

Customer Loyalty

Lastly, Jeff Reynolds, the Founder of Genysis Brand Solutions (now part of Nellson Nutraceuticals), Dyad Labs, and Sensapure Flavors, shared his perspective on how a robust validation program helps maintain customer loyalty. Reynolds knows that although running quality operations year in and year out is an investment of time and resources, the value of loyal customers is worth the effort.

We want to thank UNPA, our attendees, industry leaders, and supporters for making this event possible. Here at Sensapure, we believe that strong partnerships are paramount in creating cutting edge products that work for both brands and your customers alike. We are looking forward to seeking more knowledge and connecting further with the flavor community. If you are interested in hearing about future events at Sensapure, follow our LinkedIn profile for updates.

Jeff Reynolds, experienced Founder and CEO in the sports nutrition space showing attendees around Sensapure’s brand new building.

About Sensapure Flavors:

Sensapure Flavors services the nutrition and supplement industry with exciting flavor technology and unmatched applications experience. Born in a manufacturing company that understands the ever-changing needs of the nutraceutical industry, Sensapure combines new flavor technologies with deep product application experience.

Contact Us Today!

New Go-To Flavors in our Flavor Library

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New Go-To Flavors in Our Flavor Library

Sensapure Flavors Announces New Go-To Library with Transparent Pricing.

With a new line of tested, proven flavor keys in both Natural and N&A formulas, Sensapure Flavors broke ground in the flavor industry by putting the wholesale price of each flavor right on the label. This flavor library of approximately 50 key flavors is being sent out to current Sensapure customers this week.

Sensapure’s Flavor Library is so varied in it’s flavors and combinations, there’s almost always something to match your needs.

While it may sound intuitive, putting the actual price of the flavor on the label is a breakthrough for the industry. The benefit for product development teams to see pricing – while they are working on new formulations, results in faster, better outcomes. This saves time and money.

Where We Started

Jeff Reynolds, Founder of Sensapure explains, “Senspaure started as the in-house flavor department of a large, national-brand nutraceutical manufacturing company. Our Flavor and Applications Lab inside that company had a flavor library of well over 500 flavors to work with. Each one in nearly identical white jars with part numbers and descriptors printed on the label… but no pricing. As our product development teams worked on flavoring and functional formulation projects, and were searching for just the right flavoring keys for each new project; quite often they didn’t have quick access to pricing. It was frustrating for these teams to solve a tricky application problem with available flavor keys, only to find out that the costs of those selected flavors pushed the project over budget.”

The new Go-To Flavor line from Sensapure solves that problem. Not only is the cost of each flavor printed right on the bottle, but each of the flavors is engineered to work with the tricky applications facing companies in the sports nutrition, active lifestyle space. From plant-based protein products, to energy drinks, to more complicated matrices of multiple active ingredients, Sensapure’s Go-To Flavors provide transparent solutions to the most challenging flavor projects.

“At Sensapure, we are delighted to be able to offer this line of Go-To Flavors that will help product development teams create winning formulas faster and get those winning products to market on time and on budget.”

Jeff Reynolds, Founder of Sensapure

To add Sensapure’s new Go-To Flavors with Transparent Pricing to your applications library, contact Jared Bateman at Sensapure today and request your free sample flavor library. 

Now Available in Natural and N&A Flavor Formulas

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Salt Lake City, UT 84104

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