Nektium introduces water-soluble Zynamite S for functional drink innovation
Derived from Mangifera indica extract, a natural caffeine alternative obtained from mango leaves, Zynamite entered the market in 2018 supported by science showing enhanced mental energy and performance with minimal effects on heart rate and blood pressure.
Nektium, however, noted that plant-based ingredients have historically been difficult to formulate into ready-to-drink beverages, despite the growing demand, due to their limited solubility that can lead to stability problems and issues with mouthfeel.
"Mangiferin, which is the bioactive compound in Zynamite, has very limited solubility in water in its conventional form—it’s below 1 mg per ml," said Tanausú Vega, head of technology processes and applications at Nektium. "Our R&D team was able to adapt the mangiferin molecules to become fully water-soluble by applying a small change in our in-house proprietary production process.
"This is an important technical improvement and allowed us to launch Zynamite S—a new ingredient specifically developed for integration into demanding product formats where there is a demand for high solubility, stability and transparency in solution."
Natural energy demand
According to an Innova trend report, a significant 56% of consumers worldwide regularly incorporate hydration products into their exercise routines, and over a third consumer energy drinks.
Paired with a demand for natural caffeine alternatives, there are significant opportunities for beverage innovation for botanical-based energy drinks.
"Excessive caffeine intake is becoming a hot topic, and there is high demand for alternatives that deliver instant power and energy that consumers can really feel," said Bruno Berheide, commercial and partnership director at Nektium. "Zynamite stands out as a non-stim energy alternative, naturally enhancing mental and physical energy in a smarter way—and without the side effects of caffeine.
"Our new Zynamite S allows manufacturers the opportunity to formulate innovative beverages that can help consumers 'get in the zone' and perform at their best without suffering jitters and anxiety," Berheide added.
Zynamite S has been designed to be used within drink applications alone or in combination with caffeine, targeting mental energy and focus, as well as performance and recovery. Berheide explained that Nektium not only formulated for superior solubility but improved the organoleptic qualities for seamless integration of a small, effective dose into final product with minimal impact on taste and appearance.
“This new product grade makes it possible for manufacturers to use Zynamite in challenging formats where good solubility is required and organoleptic factors are important," he added. "It’s ideal for beverages and shots, which are convenient, on-the-go formats that are in high demand among modern consumers."
