Innovation and Challenges in the Development of Functional and Medicinal Beverages

Abstract

Recent reports have recognized that functional foods are the most emerging interest in food sectors. In particular, the functional beverage market is one of the fastest-growing segments within this sector. Beverages are categorized as the most dynamic functional food due to their convenience and the high possibility to meet market needs. Functional beverages have a great potential to be incorporated with desirable nutritional ingredients and bioactive compounds such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fatty acids, fiber, prebiotics, and probiotics. This chapter highlighted the recent innovation and development of functional and medicinal beverages including the current processes and methods of developing successful functional and medicinal beverages. The topics include the definition of functional and medicinal beverages and the type of functional beverages available in the market, the market trends and overview, emerging trends in processing technology, quality and safety issues in functional beverages prior to commercialization of products. It has become a challenge to maintain a good quality of functional and medicinal beverages especially in terms of its stability, shelf life, functionality, and safety. These issues must be taken seriously for 138improving the quality and health benefits of the beverages, as well as for the future of the food industry.