The Appeal of Healthy Drinks

Sodas and beer aren't the only popular restaurant beverages—healthier fare is gaining traction too.

Helen Jane Hearn, senior director of enterprise programs at the National Restaurant Association, talked about the shift. "Beverages of all kinds are being reformulated today with health in mind," Hearn said to Foodservice Equipment and Supplies. "Botanicals like basil, rosemary and lavender are being added to non-alcoholic drinks and used in a higher volume in alcoholic beverages."

While the idea of healthy beverages sounds like something that isn't as appetizing or fun as the less healthy counterpart, the truth is not quite as simple. According to Technomic Ignite Menu, dates, nuts, agave and oat milk were found to be some of the most popular and prevalent smoothie ingredients within the past year. This is consistent with what Hearn discussed; specifically, that today's customers are finding more of an appetite for healthy ingredients and additions.

And what exactly is it about these ingredients that's so appealing? For Pittsburgh-based tea shop Dobra Tea, the secret is experimentation. Dobra Tea makes non-alcoholic cocktails mixed with sweetened and unsweetened tea, in addition offering a variety of different teas. The shop's chai contains both sugar and cinnamon, which not only adds sweetness to the drink, but also can "help regulate blood sugar levels." Similarly, their matcha tea, which contains antioxidants, is regarded as heart-healthy and a contributor to boosted brain function.

The bottom line? Healthy ingredients in drinks are not niche. Used correctly and cleverly, healthy ingredients can give customers the same level of enjoyment as less healthy drinks.

Published by:
Christian Dantes

REWrite Blog