Mini Episode: Extracts and Essences (Tea, Coffee, and more) with Vibrant Ingredients

What this episode covers

Bill Hayes, Director of R&D Applications at Vibrant Ingredients, explains the technical distinction between tea essences (capturing volatile aromas via steam condensation) and tea extracts (providing body, color, and astringency from solids). He details how Vibrant Ingredients uses a pure water-based extraction process to create these ingredients, along with functional additives like L-theanine, EGCG, and natural caffeine, for use in RTD teas, hard teas, and cold brew coffee. Hayes advises formulators to clearly define their product mission—such as clarity versus turbidity—and to partner with suppliers who understand their specific 'must haves' to accelerate commercialization.