Synergy Flavours targets GLP-1, women’s health and healthy aging with new protein concepts alongside Carbery

Synergy Flavours has unveiled a series of protein-enriched concept products developed with parent company Carbery, focusing on targeted health segments including healthy aging, energy, women’s health and GLP-1 companion nutrition.

• Synergy Flavours confirmed it had developed a portfolio of protein-enriched concepts with Carbery targeting healthy aging, energy, women’s health and GLP-1 companion nutrition.
• The concepts included smoothies, protein coffees, bars, sodas, drinks and desserts combining whey proteins with taste modulation technologies to improve flavor and texture.
• The company linked the development to rising global demand for higher-protein products that deliver functional benefits without compromising eating and drinking experience.

The company said the new concepts were designed to help manufacturers respond to growing demand for protein-enriched foods and beverages tailored to specific consumer needs, rather than broad, one-size-fits-all health positioning. Working alongside Carbery, Synergy combined whey protein ingredients with its own flavor development and taste modulation technologies to address longstanding challenges around texture and taste in fortified products.

Among the concepts presented was a blueberry and banana smoothie aimed at the healthy aging segment. The formulation blended hydrolyzed whey protein and whey protein concentrate with oats, with the intention of supporting muscle maintenance while also delivering slow-release energy. Synergy highlighted that interest in healthy aging was increasing among younger consumers, although it said the category remained underdeveloped within functional food and drink.

Energy also featured prominently, with the company developing a range of protein coffees available in both hot and cold formats. These products used blends of whey proteins to deliver a combination of caffeine and protein, reflecting what Synergy described as a shift toward more controlled caffeine consumption and a desire to avoid energy crashes.

In the women’s health category, the company introduced a strawberry cheesecake-flavored bar formulated with hydrolyzed whey protein, whey protein concentrate and whey protein isolate, alongside a blend of vitamins and minerals. The product was developed to support strength, muscle maintenance, bone health, energy and hormone regulation in a convenient format.

Synergy also explored gut health with a raspberry and passionfruit soda concept. The beverage was designed to be high in fiber and support digestive health, while avoiding added sweeteners, colorings or acids. Instead, the formulation relied on fruit juices and taste modulation technology to deliver sweetness.

A significant portion of the portfolio focused on consumers using GLP-1 medications, an area the company identified as a growing opportunity for food and beverage manufacturers. Synergy said these consumers often experienced changes in appetite and taste perception, creating demand for products that could support satiety, maintain protein intake and address altered sensory preferences.

Its concepts for this segment included an elderflower, lime and mint drink containing whey proteins, vitamins and minerals, as well as a high-protein, high-fiber, low-fat chocolate pudding fortified with additional nutrients. Both products were designed to support muscle maintenance, strength and satiety.

The company linked the development of the portfolio to broader shifts in how protein was being used across the food industry. Rather than being confined to sports nutrition, protein was increasingly associated with a wider range of health outcomes, including overall wellness and dietary balance.

Chris Whiting, Business Development Manager for Nutrition at Synergy Flavours, said: “The global appetite for protein-enriched food and drink products is accelerating, and consumers across all sectors expect an enhanced eating and drinking experience that moves far beyond the chalky texture and flavour compromises once associated with protein fortification. As consumers become more sophisticated in their nutritional needs, they are targeting health and wellness in different ways - some consumers are more aware of targeting specific nutrients for healthy ageing, for example, while GLP-1 users are making big dietary changes to maintain a balanced diet whilst using the medication. Being able to predict consumer trends and offer products that meet these specific demographics’ needs is key to successful new product development.”

He added: “Working closely with Carbery means we combine their heritage in premium whey protein ingredients with our expertise in taste modulation technology to deliver high functionality in a great tasting product. We are excited to bring new flavour concepts that align directly with consumer needs.”

Synergy also pointed to market data from Innova, which identified “Powerhouse Protein” as its number one trend for 2026, with nearly 60% of global consumers seeking to increase their protein intake for reasons including holistic health, muscle support and balance alongside GLP-1 weight-loss medications. The company said this trend reinforced the need for manufacturers to incorporate higher levels of protein into products without compromising taste or texture.