Dive Brief:
- PepsiCo has created the first commercial use for Sweetmyx S617, a flavor booster from Senomyx, according to a news release. This flavor ingredient is intended to increase the sweet taste of foods and beverages that have been reformulated to reduce fructose, high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and/or sugar content.
- PepsiCo used the flavor booster to reformulate concentrates that will be used in Manzanita Sol across the U.S. and in Mug Root Beer in two U.S. test markets. PepsiCo has exclusive rights to use the flavor in non-alcoholic beverages, while Firmenich has exclusive rights to use Sweetmyx S617 in foods and alcoholic beverages until March 2018.
- Senomyx offers flavors and flavor boosters that increase sweet taste, create savory flavor, and block bitter flavors, The company also produces cooling agents. Senomyx flavor ingredients have both Kosher and Halal certifications.
Dive Insight:
The use of Sweetmyx S617 is part of a continuing trend of food and beverage companies reducing the sugar content of products in response to consumer demand. With the FDA seeking to put a percent daily value for added sugar on food labels, companies that can reduce added sugar content will be ahead of the game.