As the temperatures begin to rise, cucumber will be a firm favourite with consumers across the UK, Europe and North America this summer.
The fresh, fruity and flexible ingredient continues to be a success in a range of beverage applications as it taps into almost all the mainstream and emerging consumer trends. As rising health consciousness hits a critical point where ‘better-for-you’ ingredients transition from ‘nice-to have’ to a necessity. Consumers are transitioning away from high, naturally occurring sugar drinks such as fruit-based juices and smoothies driving the gap for vegetable-based drinks.
More than hydrating
The demand for functional beverages has gathered pace in the last three to five years, permeating almost every beverage category. Providing hydration simply isn’t enough for the modern consumer who now expects a whole host of health benefits from the products they buy.
The health benefits of cucumbers are well documented. As cucumbers are 95.2% water, they are associated with being extremely hydrating. They are rich in potassium, which can help to lower blood pressure. As a popular ingredient in the personal care sector, it will come as no surprise that cucumber is effective as a potential anti-wrinkle agent. They are also rich in flavonoids and tannins, which have both been shown to limit the release of free radicals in the body and reduce pain.
Familiarity and floral combinations
Familiarity is an emerging trend driving new product development as brands bridge the gap between the recognisable and the revolutionary. Cucumbers are an inherently familiar ingredient, but one that is still relatively new to the beverage category. By blending familiar, known or trusted ingredients or pairings with the more unusual – brands can appeal to a broader and more profitable consumer profile.
Part of what makes cucumber such a trendy ingredient is its flexibility, it pairs well with floral and botanical notes creating innovative applications. Lavender, orange blossom, elderflower and violet are becoming more popular.
How we can help?
Our cucumber Treattarome® is made from General Lee cucumber which grow very well in the South American heat. To find out more about how our Cucumber Treattarome® or any other ingredients can provide a solution for you, please visit our Fruits and Vegetable page for more information or contact a member of our expert team on enquiries@treatt.com