Allergy Relief: Trending Flavors and Formats

As we witness an increasing unpredictability in allergy seasons and the persistence of symptoms throughout the year for a substantial number of individuals, the demand for over-the-counter (OTC) allergy relief medications is experiencing significant growth. Today’s consumers seek more than merely effective management of their allergy symptoms – they are seeking convenience, a pleasurable sensory experience and a degree of customization in their products. In response to these evolving consumer expectations, brands are actively innovating by introducing novel dosage forms, flavor-centric formulations and aesthetically appealing products.

Delivery Formats Beyond Traditional Tablets

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in consumer preferences, particularly among younger demographics, who are increasingly seeking allergy medications that are not only effective but also user-friendly, rapidly acting and easily transportable. This evolving trend has resulted in a heightened demand for innovative and convenient delivery formats, including the following:

Gummies and Chewables: Once relegated to the realm of vitamins, gummies are now emerging as a popular choice for allergy relief. Their appeal lies in their user-friendly nature, exceptional portability and increasingly palatable taste profiles. This format has gained particular favor among families with children, who often prefer a more enjoyable candy-like experience rather than the traditional method of swallowing pills.

Dissolvable Strips and Orally Dissolving Tablets (ODTs): The emergence of quick-dissolve strips and ODTs has revolutionized the approach to allergy relief. These formats are particularly appealing for individuals on the go, offering rapid symptom alleviation without the need for water. Their growing popularity extends across both adult and pediatric consumer segments, marking a significant trend in medication delivery.

Powders and Sachets: The introduction of single-dose powder sticks has garnered significant attention due to their unmatched convenience and versatility. These innovative formats allow users to seamlessly blend allergy relief into flavored beverages, making them an attractive option for those seeking to incorporate medication into their daily routines without disruption. Brands are actively exploring these lifestyle-friendly solutions to cater to modern consumer preferences.

Soft Gels and Soft Chews: For individuals who still have a preference for capsules but desire a more comfortable swallowing experience along with enhanced absorption, soft gels and soft chews present an advanced alternative to conventional tablets. These modern formulations offer a smoother ingestion process while ensuring that the active ingredients are swiftly absorbed into the body, thereby maximizing the effectiveness of allergy relief.

Flavor Trends

While traditional flavors such as cherry and grape continue to dominate the market, there is a growing trend toward incorporating more innovative and comforting flavors into product formulations. This evolution reflects a broader understanding of consumer preferences and the importance of flavor in enhancing the overall user experience. (2)

• Citrus blends, including refreshing combinations of orange and lemon-lime, are being embraced for their invigorating and uplifting qualities that can enhance the overall experience of the consumer.

• Berry fusions, such as the delightful combinations of blueberry-raspberry and strawberry-acai, are favored for their sweet and familiar taste profiles that resonate with consumers, particularly children.

• Mint and eucalyptus are gaining popularity for their soothing properties, especially in products aimed at alleviating discomfort in the nasal and throat areas, delivering both a sense of relief and a revitalizing sensation.

• Vanilla-honey and chamomile flavors are preferred choices for soothing bedtime formulations, as they create a calming atmosphere conducive to relaxation and sleep, appealing particularly to children and their caregivers.

How Sensient Pharmaceutical Solutions Can Elevate Your Products

• Flavor Masking and Enhancement: In the realm of allergy relief products, the presence of bitter or metallic off-notes can significantly detract from consumer satisfaction. At Sensient, we utilize cutting-edge taste masking and modulation technologies to effectively neutralize these undesirable flavors, thereby enhancing the overall sensory experience and palatability of your pharmaceutical formulations.

• Customized Flavor Development: We understand that each brand has its unique identity and target demographic. Our team of flavor specialists are dedicated to developing custom flavor profiles that not only resonate with your brand’s essence but also capture the preferences of your desired consumer base, whether you seek classic flavors or innovative, trend-forward options.

• Color Systems for Every Format: Sensient is committed to providing comprehensive color solutions that cater to a diverse range of dosage forms, from vibrant chewable tablets to naturally colored gummies. Our color systems are designed to be stable and compliant with regulatory standards, ensuring that your products not only stand out on the shelves but also meet all necessary guidelines for safety and quality.

• Format-Specific Support: Recognizing that each dosage form presents distinct challenges related to flavor and color development, Sensient collaborates closely with formulators to optimize flavor release, stability, and visual appeal across a variety of formats, including tablets, liquids, powders, and beyond. Our goal is to ensure that your products not only meet but exceed market expectations.

The over-the-counter (OTC) allergy relief market is undergoing a transformation driven by evolving consumer preferences and innovative sensory experiences. As flavor and format increasingly influence product success, partnering with Sensient Pharmaceutical will empower you to deliver products that not only provide effective relief but also captivate and delight your customers.