Non-Alcoholic Beverages represent one of the most innovative sectors in the entire food industry, one that is driven by changing consumer demands and the adoption of new ingredients and raw materials.
The latest recipes promise no additives, preservatives, or added sugar. Juice professionals have signed a Pledge to reduce the added sugar in nectars by 5%, and to limit the amount of salt added to vegetable juices to 6 grams per liter.
Energy drinks are also undergoing a transformation. They are exploring natural substitutes, like guarana and ginseng to replace taurine, to appeal to customers looking for healthier options. A number of start-ups are cashing in on this trend.
Non-alcoholic beers have been around for a while, and the latest trend is non-alcoholic spirits. Non-alcoholic gin, whisky and wine… production costs and techniques are the same, except for the very last step, when the ethanol is released. These new beverages are manna from heaven for the industry, because non-alcoholic drinks aren’t subject to the taxes imposed on alcoholic ones, which can range from 60 to 80%, depending on the country.
And finally, French mineral water’s market share has remained stable (at 40%) as the global market has grown exponentially. In addition, after 2 years of research and innovation, the first 100% recycled and recyclable bottle has been created in France.
“The sector intends to be a role model, and is aiming for zero waste.“
Key figures of Non-Alcoholic Beverages sector in France
France is the world’s leading exporter of mineral water with 40% of global market.
In 2019, the non-alcoholic beverage market generated 7.8 billion euros in sales, +3.6% compared to 2018.
The French enjoy non-alcoholic beverages, since they spend 9.5 billion euros a year on them and they consume 1.5 billion euros liters of fruit juice annually.
Current issues :
Recycled PET
Drinks with lower sugar content
The world’ leading brands produce in France, at the following plants:
Socx
Levallois-Perret
Clamart
Grigny
Saint-Alban-les-Eaux
Castanet-Tolosan
Les Pennes-Mirabeau