Honey and Coffee: A Sweet Opportunity for…

As the coffee industry continues to evolve approaching the holiday season, product developers are exploring new ways to meet consumer demands for variety, functionality and natural ingredients in RTD coffee offerings. Enter honey: an all-natural sweetener with a complex flavor profile and functional benefits that can boost RTD coffee products from standard to standout! For developers thinking about adding honey to their lineup, check out ways Mother Nature’s Sweetener can deepen flavor, support clean label formulations and create a cup of Joe that’s as functional as it is delicious.

Consumers are increasingly seeking coffee beverages that offer more than just a caffeine boost. The demand for functional ingredients such as adaptogens, collagen and nootropics is on the rise, with brands using these factors to personalize their marketability. RTD cold brews, nitros, lattes and espresso drinks are especially popular with younger consumers, driven by personalization, value and a demand for a new experience in the category. Plus, coffee isn’t just for mornings anymore! Beverage Industry reports: “With the growing variety of options and the corresponding variety in occasions, younger generations, particularly, may be rewriting the traditional coffee ‘as part of the morning routine’ story, and coffee may be turning more into a beverage that is part of rituals and different moments rather than the same routine each morning.”

To further enhance the new RTD all-day experience, honey not only offers an alternative to traditional sweeteners but creates a unique flavor experience for coffee lovers looking for adventure, novelty and innovation—all in one sip.

Why coffee developers are turning to honey for the next wave of RTD innovation:

• Natural Sweetening: Honey is an all-natural sweetener, appealing to health-conscious consumers seeking alternatives to refined sugars.

• Flavor Complexity: The diverse flavor profiles of different honey varietals can add depth and complexity to cold brew or iced coffee. It also can complement rich, toasted coffee beverages, enhancing the overall taste experience.

• Clean Label Appeal: As consumers increasingly demand transparency in ingredient sourcing, Mother Nature’s sweetener supports clean label formulations.

A little honey goes a long way. These buzz-worthy coffees are proof!