Prinova to Highlight Solutions for Solubility and Taste Challenges in Functional Beverages

To address processing hurdles in functional beverages, ingredient technology provider Prinova will showcase insights on technical solutions at the upcoming IFT FIRST exhibition from July 13th to 15th in Chicago.¹ Recent innovations in ingredient processing have made clear pea protein a viable and highly functional solution for both ready-to-drink (RTD) and ready-to-mix (RTM) applications, the company explains. These help pea protein overcome traditional formulation barriers by maintaining a clean taste profile at lower dosages of 15 grams or less per serving. Furthermore, the innovation introduces manufacturing advantages, including reduced foaming during blending and a highly favorable cost-in-use structure.

What Market Trends Are Driving Functional Beverage Innovation?

The sports nutrition and functional beverage categories are experiencing rapid evolution, driven primarily by sustained consumer demand for clean-label, plant-based nutrition delivered in refreshing formats that support active lifestyles, Prinova highlights. Market data from Innova Market Insights underscores the velocity of this shift: between 2020 and 2024, the global volume of high-protein drinks expanded by 122%, with buyers strongly favoring natural ingredient options.² Within this expanding landscape, clear protein beverages have emerged as a promising format for brand owners and product developers.

Market projections further reinforce this category's expansion, with the global plant-based protein market forecasted to grow from $23.89 billion in 2025 to $34.97 billion by 2030, propelled by consumer interest in environmental sustainability and healthier lifestyles.³ Digestibility metrics also position pea protein concentrate favorably at 98% efficiency, performing comparably to animal-derived whey protein isolate at 100%. This high digestibility, paired with its complete essential amino acid profile and low allergenicity, makes pea protein a viable choice for functional beverage innovation.

Why Has Formulating Plant-Based Clear Proteins Been Historically Difficult?

Despite strong consumer interest, formulators targeting this category have historically faced significant technical constraints. Achieving high clarity, excellent solubility, and a palatable flavor profile has proven notoriously difficult, particularly when utilizing plant-based proteins. These sensory and physical limitations have frequently hindered product development and restricted commercial scalability.

What Commercial Benefits Do Clear Proteins Offer Brands?

According to Tim Gran, Specialty Development Manager at Prinova USA, clear proteins provide an optimal mechanism for creating high-quality, protein-based beverages that meet diverse consumer expectations. “As well as clean-label and natural credentials, clear protein beverages can deliver functionality, convenience and refreshment across both RTD and RTM platforms,” Gran explains. “At IFT we’re inviting attendees to discover how our experts can help you accelerate innovation and shape the next generation of functional beverages.”

Complementing plant-based options, market interest is also rising for clear proteins in carbonated beverages. In an interview at SupplySide Global, Dan Force, Prinova's director of marketing and innovation, stated that global supply chain and contract manufacturing infrastructures have finally matured to support high-volume production of these high-protein drinks.⁴

What Can Attendees Expect from Prinova at IFT FIRST?

Prinova’s research and development team is scheduled to host a technical presentation on formulating with clear proteins on Monday, July 13th at 2:30 p.m. at the Solutions Showcase on the IFT Expo floor. The session will demonstrate practical methods for integrating clear pea protein into hydration, energy, and performance beverage formulations. Attendees will also be invited to sample an active clear protein beverage formulation to evaluate its clarity and flavor firsthand.

What is Prinova’s Background in Ingredients?

Prinova operates as a global supplier of ingredients, nutrient premixes, and contract manufacturing solutions, supported by over 45 years of experience in ingredient sourcing and a distribution network that includes liquid and dry premix facilities in the United States, the United Kingdom, and China. The business has been part of the NAGASE Group since 2019.

References

1. Prinova. Prinova to share expertise on clear protein innovation at IFT FIRST. Published June 29, 2026. Accessed June 29, 2026. Press release provided via email.
2. Innova Market Insights. Protein Beverages Trends: Global Market Overview. April 16, 2025. Accessed June 29, 2026. https://www.innovamarketinsights.com/trends/protein-beverages-trends-global-market-overview/
3. McEvoy E. The growing interest in plant-based proteins in food and beverages. June 5, 2026. Accessed June 29, 2026. https://www.nutritionaloutlook.com/view/growing-interest-plant-based-proteins-food-beverages
4. McEvoy E, Force D. Prinova's high-protein product innovations to meet consumer trends. November 18, 2025. Accessed June 29, 2026. https://www.nutritionaloutlook.com/view/prinova-s-high-protein-product-innovations-to-meet-consumer-trends