SHELF STABLE, LOW WATER LIQUID BEVERAGE CONCENTRATES AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME

摘要

Liquid beverage concentrates providing enhanced stability to flavor, artificial sweeteners, vitamins, and/or color ingredients are described herein. More particularly, liquid beverage concentrates described herein provide enhanced flavor stability despite a high acidulant content (i.e., at least about 5 percent by weight acidulant). In one aspect, the liquid beverage concentrates have a low water content (i.e., less than about 30 percent water) and, in another aspect, are substantially free of water. In some approaches, the liquid beverage concentrates disclosed herein remain shelf stable for at least about three months and can be diluted to prepare flavored beverages with a desired flavor profile and with little or no flavor degradation.