Dairy Foods: Sweet Treats and Savory Heat
Inclusions are rapidly becoming a key differentiator in dairy and beverage products, enhancing flavor, texture, nutrition, and clean-label appeal while creating more indulgent, sensory-driven eating and drinking experiences.
March 11, 2026
The following is an excerpt from the article “Sweet treats and savory heat: How dairy inclusions differentiate ice cream and beverages” originally published by Dairy Foods on February 20, 2026. The excerpt below features insights from our very own EVP of Sales, Mr. James Bruce:
“James Bruce, vice president of sales at Dallas, Texas-based Pecan Deluxe, concurs that the healthy, natural goodness and sweetness of fruits and nuts are riding high on the protein preferences of yogurt and cottage cheese with plenty of opportunities for growth.
“Fruit inclusions — especially berries, tropical fruits, and low-sugar options — add natural sweetness, vibrant color, and functional benefits like fiber and antioxidants. Nuts and seeds contribute crunch and satiety while boosting protein, healthy fats, and minerals, helping these products feel more like complete snacks or meals,” Bruce notes.
“Together, fruits and nuts also support clean-label positioning, as consumers recognize and trust these ingredients,” he adds. “In categories such as yogurt and cottage cheese, these mix-ins allow brands to differentiate through both indulgent and health-forward combinations, driving repeat purchases and keeping traditional dairy products relevant in a competitive, wellness-focused market.”
Let us be Your Secret Ingredient.
Let us develop custom-made inclusions just for you. Inquire here and one of our team members will be in touch with you shortly; we look forward to creating something extraordinary together!