| abstract |
Disclosed herein are liquid beverage concentrates that enhance the stability of flavors, artificial sweeteners, vitamins, and / or coloring ingredients. More particularly, the liquid beverage concentrates disclosed herein enhance flavor stability despite high acidulant content (at least about 5% by weight acidulant). In one aspect, the liquid beverage concentrate has a low moisture content (less than about 30% water) and in another aspect is substantially free of water. In some approaches, the liquid beverage concentrates disclosed herein have a storage stability of at least about 3 months and, upon dilution, a desired flavor profile with little or no degradation of flavor. A flavored beverage having can be prepared. |