Balchem to Showcase Functional Beverage and High-Protein Snack Prototypes at IFT FIRST 2026

As supplement manufacturers and functional food brands continue to navigate shifting consumer demands, the intersection of health benefit and sensory appeal remains a critical formulation hurdle. To address these challenges, specialty ingredient manufacturer Balchem has announced its exhibition plans for the upcoming IFT FIRST event in Chicago, Illinois, taking place July 12-15, 2026.¹ Exhibiting at booth #1407, the company aims to provide solutions for brands targeting the expanding "better-for-you" market through advanced ingredient technologies and customizable systems.

How is Balchem Targeting Consumer Snack and Beverage Demands?

Citing data from the 2025 IFIC Food & Health Survey, Balchem highlights how healthy snacking has transitioned into a daily ritual for most Americans, with 70% of consumers actively seeking out increased protein content.² The company also notes that concurrently, the functional beverage sector is shifting beyond basic hydration as brands compete to deliver targeted health benefits.

"Current market trends are driving demand for convenient, on-the-go options that support wellness while still delivering the flavors and textures consumers expect," stated Andrew Hart, Director of Strategic Marketing & Business Development at Balchem. “At IFT, we're excited to showcase prototypes and concepts that demonstrate how our ingredient technologies can help brands meet these evolving demands for convenient options with real health benefits and standout sensory appeal."

To help manufacturers capitalize on these trends, Balchem will introduce several finished product concepts at the event. Among the highlights is a Dubai chocolate-inspired cluster prototype utilizing the company’s new Milk Protein Z-Crisps. This application demonstrates how manufacturers can develop nutrient-dense, high-protein snacks while optimizing mouthfeel, texture, and flavor.

How is Balchem Streamlining Formulation and Production Efficiency?

For manufacturers looking to optimize processing and clean up ingredient decks, Balchem will highlight its human nutrition and health portfolio across three core technologies:

• MeatShure: An advanced microencapsulation technology designed for meat snack sticks. It allows for efficient, high-capacity production by eliminating traditional fermentation times and removing the need for added sugars, resulting in cleaner, protein-rich profiles.
• INjoy: Customizable beverage systems built for functional waters, ready-to-drink (RTD) options, and energy drinks, designed to ensure consistent sensory appeal and targeted functionality.
• VitalBlend: Fully customizable lipid-based powders enhanced with macro and micronutrients, formulated to meet application-specific nutritional requirements.

What Technical Insights Will Be Presented at the Taste of Science Stage?

In addition to booth demonstrations, Balchem experts will host two technical presentations at the IFT Taste of Science Stage to discuss specific formulation strategies:

1. Formulating Better-for-You Indulgence in High Protein, High Fiber Applications (July 13, 1:00 PM): This session will explore how spray-dried lipid powders can be leveraged to improve the taste, texture, and overall functionality of nutrient-dense foods.
2. Simplifying Beverage Innovation: Beverage Systems Built for Fast-Moving Markets (July 14, 1:30 PM): This presentation will focus on utilizing systems-based formulations to reduce research and development complexity, accelerating speed-to-market while maintaining consistent sensory performance.

Through these systems and ingredients, Balchem intends to demonstrate how manufacturers can successfully balance active wellness claims with the convenience and flavor profiles expected by modern consumers.

Corporate Framework and Segment Overview

As a global manufacturer, Balchem Corporation operates three distinct business segments: Human Nutrition & Health, Animal Nutrition & Health, and Specialty Products. While its specialty packaging and agricultural chelated minerals fall under other divisions, the Human Nutrition & Health segment focuses directly on supplying key nutrients and customized ingredient systems across the food, supplement, and pharmaceutical sectors.

References

1. Balchem. Balchem highlights on-trend better-for-you concepts and smart formulation insights at IFT FIRST 2026. June 16, 2026. Accessed July 6, 2026. Press release provided via email.
2. International Food Information Council.2025 IFIC Food & Health Survey. January 13, 2026. Accessed July 6, 2026. https://ific.org/wp-content/uploads/2025-IFIC-Food-Health-Survey-Full-Report.pdf