Arla Foods Ingredients will serve up innovative concepts for high-protein ready-to-drink (RTD) tea and coffee at Vitafoods Europe (May 9th to 11th).

The market for functional RTD teas and coffees is predicted to grow 6-7% by 2026, creating opportunities for both sports nutrition manufacturers and mainstream health brands. To support them, Arla Foods Ingredients has created two inspirational new RTD concepts:

• A cold brew coffee that works as either a morning caffeine boost or a pre-workout energizer. High in protein, calcium, and caffeine, but low in sugar and fat, it will appeal to the 58% of consumers who choose functional food and beverages that increase their energy levels.

• A refreshing RTD tea, designed as the perfect mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Flavored with yuzu and high in protein and calcium, it’s tea but with an invigorating new twist and is ideal for the 57% of consumers who choose products that support strong and healthy bones.

Both concepts owe their high protein and calcium content to Lacprodan MicelPure, a micellar casein isolate produced using gentle membrane filtration technology. As well as allowing on-pack nutrition claims, its benefits include a mild milky taste and low viscosity throughout a product’s shelf life. During production, Lacprodan MicelPure offers outstanding heat stability, unlocking a range of processing, packaging, and flavor options.

Troels Nørgaard Laursen, director - Health & Performance, Arla Foods Ingredients, said, “Consumers are increasingly seeking out beverages that are novel and convenient and also offer a nutritional boost. RTD teas and coffees with functional benefits are riding a major wave right now, and these concepts demonstrate how they can deliver an on-trend combination of protein, calcium, and caffeine.”

Arla Foods Ingredients will exhibit at Vitafoods Europe on Stand G30. Other concepts on show will include a multi-textured bar with protein in every layer, a special edition of which has been created for Vitafoods, and Rehydrate & Restore – a clear refreshing RTD beverage solution that combines protein with electrolytes.