Prinova is set to spotlight the fast‑growing potential of clear proteins at this year’s IFT FIRST, using the industry’s leading food‑science event to share expert insights on how beverage manufacturers can unlock new opportunities in the category.

The global ingredients and premix specialist will present its latest research and formulation expertise, demonstrating how clear proteins can help brands meet rising consumer demand for clean, functional and refreshing protein beverages.

Clear proteins — high‑quality proteins that dissolve fully and remain transparent in solution — have become one of the most dynamic areas of innovation in sports nutrition, hydration and functional beverages.

Prinova’s appearance at IFT FIRST aims to help manufacturers understand both the technical functionality and commercial advantages of these ingredients, particularly as consumers shift toward lighter, juice‑style and water‑based protein formats.

Prinova’s experts will highlight how clear proteins offer a smoother, more refreshing alternative to traditional dairy‑based shakes, without compromising on nutritional value. Their clarity, neutral flavour profile and stability make them ideal for ready‑to‑drink beverages, protein waters, energy drinks and hybrid functional formats that combine hydration with muscle recovery or satiety benefits.

According to Prinova, the category’s momentum is being driven by several converging trends: demand for high‑protein diets, interest in clean‑label formulations, and the rise of active‑lifestyle consumers seeking convenient, low‑sugar functional drinks. Clear proteins allow brands to innovate within these trends while differentiating from the crowded shake‑based protein market.

At IFT FIRST, Prinova will share formulation guidance designed to help manufacturers overcome common challenges associated with protein beverages, including solubility, flavour masking, mouthfeel and stability. The company will also showcase prototype concepts that demonstrate how clear proteins can be used to create vibrant, flavour‑forward drinks without cloudiness or sedimentation.

Prinova’s technical specialists will discuss how ingredient selection, processing conditions and pH management influence clarity and sensory performance. They will also outline how clear proteins can be combined with electrolytes, botanicals, caffeine, vitamins and minerals to create multifunctional beverages that appeal to consumers seeking both refreshment and performance.

Beyond formulation, Prinova will explore the commercial potential of clear proteins, noting that the category continues to expand across retail, convenience and online channels. Protein waters and clear RTDs have seen strong growth in North America and Europe, with consumers increasingly choosing them as everyday functional beverages rather than niche sports‑nutrition products. Prinova believes this shift presents a major opportunity for brands to innovate with new flavours, formats and positioning strategies.

The company’s presence at IFT FIRST underscores its commitment to supporting manufacturers through both ingredient expertise and market insight. Prinova’s global network and premix capabilities allow it to help customers develop clear‑protein beverages that meet regulatory requirements, scale efficiently and deliver consistent quality.

“Clear proteins are transforming the way consumers think about protein beverages,” Prinova said ahead of the event. “IFT FIRST is the ideal platform to demonstrate how these ingredients can unlock new innovation pathways for brands, from refreshing protein waters to multifunctional performance drinks. Our goal is to help manufacturers understand both the science and the market opportunity so they can bring high‑quality, consumer‑ready products to life.”

Prinova’s sessions and prototypes will be available throughout IFT FIRST, offering attendees hands‑on insight into one of the most exciting areas of functional beverage development.