The distribution agreement provides Blue Pacific with access to a proprietary, patented-technology platform to provide its customers with encapsulated natural flavours that are said to offer superior taste, solubility and shelf life.

"Higher quality and better tasting powdered beverages are becoming a preferred option for Millennials and Gen Z who want beverages that offer authentic taste and convenience, and share their values in sustainability," said Blue Pacific Flavors CEO Donald Wilkes.

Blue Pacific/McCormick FlavorCell products are described as providing high aroma and full, multi-dimensional flavour delivery when compared to traditional spray dried flavours. The patented technology is said to improve shelf-stability of citrus and other fruit flavours and typically have a two-year shelf life. In addition to powdered beverage applications, the company will promote these products for a wide range of applications including bakery and confection. Blue Pacific Flavors will distribute McCormicks existing FlavorCell flavours and offer custom designed flavours featuring Blue Pacific Flavors natural fruit flavour keys.

"We see substantial interest in higher quality, encapsulated natural flavours from our core natural food and beverage clients. Our customers are looking for flavours that have stronger aroma and more authentic flavour impact than traditional spray-dried flavours," Wilkes added.

"At McCormick, we are excited to work with Blue Pacific to bring the benefits of FlavorCell to new markets and to help more product developers overcome challenges on their way to creating memorable, consumer-preferred taste experiences," notes Megan Ford, President, McCormick US & Latin America Flavor Solutions.

Blue Pacific Flavors develops natural and certified organic fruit and sweet flavours for a broad range of food applications including beverages, fruit preparations, dairy (yogurt and milk), plant-based milks, ice cream, frozen desserts, bakery and nutritional foods and confectionery products.