Clinically studied functional botanicals are in demand and attracting significant attention from consumers because of the wide range of health properties they deliver. These include boosting energy, increasing immune function, improving skin health, increasing focus and memory, boosting testosterone levels and providing relaxation.

Botanical extracts with high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, such as turmeric and cranberry seed extract, are known to promote recovery from onset muscle soreness. This is associated with muscle pain, decreased range of motion, muscle fiber disruption, decreased strength and tissue damage. Among the many ingredients Innophos offers is CranSmart whole cranberry extract, which is known for preventing urinary tract infections.

“Turmeric-based functional ingredients, while often priced at a premium, have superior bioavailablilty and absorption since they are delivered in the body together [with] specific substrates/carriers or using polymeric technology to target rapid absorption in blood,” wrote Duff. “These special function ingredients come with traceability from farm to factory, are non-GMO, and are organically cultivated with good agricultural practices.”

Duff expects to see more product launches with botanical extracts in the performance beverage segment as herbal and botanical extracts with proven efficacy are widely accepted — especially more wellness beverages that include cranberry extracts and tea polyphenols. These could include vegetable drinks made with alfalfa and green leafy vegetable blends; and meal replacement beverages that contain botanical blends, berry extracts, pea and other vegetable protein blends.