From the Novonesis perspective, what is currently the most significant shift you see in the global approach to healthy beverage innovation?
The global approach to healthy beverage innovation is increasingly focused on maximizing nutrition in smaller servings. The increasing use of GLP-1 is intensifying this trend, giving rise to a fresh consumer segment with unique demands that need to be met.
Additionally, there’s a heightened focus on holistic health across all life stages, with consumers seeking solutions that support healthy longevity. This evolution aligns with Novonesis’ commitment to unlocking the full potential of raw materials through biosolutions, enabling products that deliver superior nutrition, digestibility, and functionality. The shift toward plant-based beverages, as highlighted in our Vertera® portfolio, underscores the importance of sustainable, nutrient-dense options that cater to diverse consumer needs.
When aiming for high-performance nutrition in beverage design, what are the primary themes that Novonesis considers essential for a product's long-term success?
It’s all about balance. First, the product has to help people meet their daily health goals. That could be better nutrition, improved digestibility, and functional benefits like more protein or fiber. Second, simplicity is key. Consumers want cleaner labels with ingredients they recognize and trust.
Bringing these benefits into products that feel indulgent is what keeps consumers coming back. Health doesn’t have to feel like a chore. For producers, ensuring these products are easy and affordable to produce is critical for long term success. Our Vertera® biosolutions, like Vertera® Velvet and Vertera®Rise for creating barista level foam, or Vertera® Advantage that preserves the beta-glucans in oats, are designed to meet all these demands.
How does the Novonesis suite of biosolutions empower partners to navigate these various technical requirements during the product development phase?
Collaboration is central. When we work with partners, we start by understanding their vision and challenges. From there, we tap into our extensive portfolio of enzymes, cultures, and probiotics to find the right fit. And because we draw on insights from multiple industries, we’re able to tackle even the trickiest challenges at every stage of production, from raw material handling to final food formulation.
Our approach is rooted in understanding customer pain points and translating them into innovative biosolutions that unlock the full potential of raw materials.
As we gather in Copenhagen for Bridge2Food Europe 2026, what kind of new industry perspectives is Novonesis most eager to explore through professional dialogue?
We believe that the plant-based space is full of opportunities, even with all the challenges posed by today’s unpredictable market.
We’re looking forward to hearing more about how producers are navigating these challenges, especially how companies are de-risking their operations and where they see biosolutions playing a bigger role. For us, it’s a chance to learn how we can better support the industry. These conversations are invaluable for shaping the future of plant-based innovation.
What is the primary practical takeaway that attendees can expect to gain from your session regarding the future of healthy beverage design?
Our goal is to show attendees how Vertera® biosolutions can give consumers more of what they want and less of what they don’t. With a portfolio that includes enzymes, cultures and probiotics, we can help producers make the most out of plant bases, whether it’s boosting nutrition, improving texture, or enhancing flavor.
But it’s not just about the product. We’re also focused on process efficiency and sustainability, like saving energy, reducing waste, and making choices that are better for the planet. Attendees will walk away with a clear understanding of how to meet complex consumer health needs while staying competitive in a fast-changing market.