Strawberry puree for drinks: current uses and trends

Strawberries are popular in various segments of the food industry. Whether as a fresh fruit or as an ingredient in ready-to-eat preparations, it remains a favorite among consumers. Explore the current trends in the use of strawberry puree for drinks here.

A timeless classic

Strawberries are one of those products that never go out of fashion. We see it daily in its natural form in retail outlets, and as an ingredient in a wide variety of preparations. For example, 36.78% of restaurants offer strawberries on their menus (Tastewise, n.d.). This shows that strawberries are widely consumed.

Besides, consumers describe products flavored with these red fruits as tasty, indulgent, and fun (FONA International, 2021). They also are a popular choice for those interested in taking care of their health. Today, more and more consumers favor organic products or products with natural preservatives and ingredients. Specifically, Tastewise (n.d.) reports that the fastest growing consumer need for strawberries today is in the area of fitness. The fruit contains high levels of vitamins, fiber and polyphenols that can positively impact health (Allied Market Research, 2024).

Uses of strawberry puree for drinks

There are many and varied foods containing strawberries. Some of the products in which it is most used are dairy products, ice cream, desserts, confectionery, and beverages. In these, strawberry puree is a favorite form of strawberry, as it acts as a natural flavoring and sweetener. It also improves the texture and color of the final products. Furthermore, it retains the nutritional value of fresh fruit and is easy to transport and store (Persistence Market Research, 2023).

Notably, beverages were the fastest growing fruit puree application segment during 2022. In particular, juices and ready-to-drink smoothies have accounted for much of the use of this supply (Nandi, 2021). For example, a prominent application of strawberry puree for drinks is as an ingredient in the production of functional beverages, as it is a source of phenols to produce energy, sports, and enhanced drinks (Food Services and Hospitality, 2024).

Applications of strawberry puree for drinks in the alcohol industry

Trends reveal that taste is important to alcohol consumers. 50% of US adults say so. So do 78% of 22- to 34-year-olds, who report that flavors motivate their purchasing choices in this segment (Hasegawa, 2022).

A clear example of this phenomenon is the ready-to-drink fruit-flavored options. There, strawberry puree is positioned to play a major role. Its fruity taste is ideal for creating products such as the popular hard seltzers. Currently, it is estimated that 41% of US millennials regularly enjoy these products (Hasegawa, 2022).

In conclusion, the applications of strawberry puree for drinks are numerous. Whether as a flavoring or sweetener, it has a place in a wide range of products in this segment.

Bibliographical references

• FONA International. (2021). Trending Fruit Flavors 2021 & Beyond.

• Food Services and Hospitality. (2024). Strawberry puree market by Nature (Organic, Conventional), by End-use (Food and Beverage Industry, Foodservice Industry, Retail/Household) and by Distribution Channel (Business to Business, Business to Consumer): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032.

• Hasegawa, T. (2022). Food and Beverage Flavor Trends Report 2023.

• Persistence Market Research. (2023). Fruit puree market.

• Tastewise. (n.d.). Strawberries trends - consumption analysis and statistics 2024 report.