Ingredients
Ingredients manufacturers to improve stability and uniformity and ensure optimal solubility and dilution of ingredients within beverage applications. Our energy-enhanced premixes, for example, can help manufacturers to produce beverages which include high-quality B vitamins, caffeine, and natural sources, such as guarana, green tea, and ginseng—ingredients proven to help reduce fatigue and boost alertness. In the gut health space, we’re leveraging our expertise in the microbiome to develop optimized blends of pre-, pro- and postbiotics. Our postbiotics, in particular, offer shelf-stable digestive support without the formulation challenges typically associated with live probiotics. We know that functionality can only go so far—if it doesn’t taste good, it won’t succeed. With this in mind, we’ve developed technologies like TasteGEM® XD, a receptor-based flavor that amplifies both the tonality and the sweetness of a range of sweetening ingredients, enabling up to 30% sugar reduction with fewer off-notes. For carbonated drinks, carbonation modulators, such as ModulaSENSE, help fine-tune mouthfeel and flavor perception, maintaining the indulgence consumers expect. Visual appeal also plays a key role in consumer perception — but maintaining color stability in low-pH, light-exposed beverages can be difficult. As demand grows for clean-label products, natural colors are often preferred over artificial alternatives, but they tend to be more sensitive to degradation from heat, light, and acidity. We recognized this industry-wide challenge and developed our next-generation carotenoids in response. Designed for use in acidic, clear beverages, they offer enhanced stability and deliver vibrant, long-lasting hues — helping brands achieve both visual impact and cleanlabel appeal. Building on our experience in formulation science, we also developed our advanced powder technologies to enhance the performance of nutritional premixes. These innovations improve solubility, protect sensitive ingredients from degradation, and ensure consistent nutrient delivery. Because we manufacture a full range of vitamins at our own European facilities, we also offer brands greater sustainability benefits, tighter quality control, and reliable supply — all increasingly critical in today’s market. Unlocking delicious drinks in partnership At dsm-firmenich, we combine technical knowledge with application expertise to help our partners bring high-performing products to market quickly and confidently. We know how specific ingredients behave in different beverage systems and can guide our customers toward the best solutions—whether they’re looking to reduce sugar, enhance functionality, or improve sensory appeal. Ultimately, we believe that today’s consumers shouldn’t have to choose between what tastes good, what feels good, and what’s good for them. But, with the right ingredients, technologies, and expertise, beverage manufacturers can create drinks that are indulgent, nutritious, and aligned with the values and expectations of today’s health-conscious, flavorfocused consumers. The Author Gilbert Verschelling is Senior Director Innovationat Beverages at dsm-firmenich 1)Gilbert Verschelling is Senior Director Innovation at Beverages at dsm-firmenich 2)dsm-firmenich global consumer research, January 2023 3)dsm-firmenich global consumer research, January 2023 4)dsm-firmenich global consumer research, January 2023 5)dsm-firmenich global consumer research, January 2023 6) https://fortune.com/2025/02/18/coca-colasimply-pop-prebiotic-soda/ 7) Reducing free sugars intake in adults to reduce the risk of noncommunicable diseases – World Health Organisation: https://www.who.int/tools/elena/interventions/ free-sugars-adults-ncds 8) World Bank Global SSB Tax Database - Oct 2023 9) Mintel GNPD (2010 – 2024) 10) FMCG Gurus Digestive Health in 2022 and Beyond – Global Report; DSM Global Health Concerns Study 2023 11)https://www.bevsource.com/news/energydrink-ingredients-to-watch 14
Enquire about a stand Events The unmissable ingredients event Fi Europe is where the F&B ingredients industry comes together to connect, innovate and drive the future of food. drinkworld Technology + Marketing · June 2025 15
