Drink trends 2022: alcohol-free, CBD, adaptogens

The upheavals in the beverage industry over the past two years, as well as in society, have shaken up consumer behavior. Consumption trends have changed and the various players in the sector must adapt to ensure their success in 2022. But in which direction? New alternatives to alcohol are on the rise.

CBD, adaptogens, nootropics: this year's alcohol-free trends

2022 will be the year of the non-alcoholic. The market share of this category, which is adjacent to alcohol, is growing both at the retail level and in the HORECA environment.

As an indication, beverage research firm IWSR estimates the value of the low-alcohol or non-alcohol beverage market at $98 million in the United States. Their forecast indicates a 12% annual growth rate for this industry between 2021 and 2025 in the US.

Product innovation focuses on the discovery of natural ingredients with psychotropic effects similar to those of alcohol, while offering an attractive taste profile. Here are the 3 trendy substances to use this year:

	le CBD, , also known as cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in hemp (botanical name: Cannabis sativa). It is the most abundant compound of the cannabinoid family in the varieties of hemp authorized and cultivated throughout the world. CBD is sought after for its relaxing, anti-stress and calming properties.
	Adaptogens are varieties of medicinal plants that stimulate nervous functions for better stress regulation. The best known of these plants is ginseng. There are about 10 species such as Asian ginseng, American ginseng and Siberian ginseng. Licorice or holy basil are other adaptogenic species.
	Nootropics are "brain stimulants" that improve cognitive performance and brain health: improved memory, increased attention, motivation, mood, stress resistance and relaxation. Among the natural nootropics, we can mention caffeine and turmeric or the lion's mane mushroom.

Several products are already on the American market, including Recess, water infused with hemp and adaptogens, Kin Euphorics which contains adaptogens, nootropics and botanicals (and was co-founded by model Bella Hadid) and HOP WTR, a non-alcoholic beverage filled with hops.

The reported effects of these products vary, but are often associated with relaxation and improved mood.

Are you ready to try these new trends of non-alcoholic drinks?