Be Active! Rethink Protein
with Collagen Peptide Solutions for Better-For-You Foods and Beverages
Under the theme "Be Active! Rethink Protein. Elevate Active Nutrition with Collagen Peptides," GELITA will showcase science-backed ingredient solutions that enable manufacturers to create foods and beverages that deliver nutritional value, satisfying taste and texture, and consumer-desired health benefits.
GELITA invites food and beverage innovators to visit booth #3214 at IFT FIRST Annual Event & Expo and discover how collagen proteins can help brands meet evolving consumer expectations for wellness-driven, protein-powered products.
BE ACTIVE!
Delight Your Tastebuds at Booth 3214
Visitors to the GELITA booth will get to try samples and discover how collagen peptides and gelatin can unlock new opportunities across the functional food and beverage landscape while meeting consumers' growing demand for convenient, nutrient-dense products. Visitors can also sample:
Where Taste Meets Science
Unlocking Better Snacking Experiences
Angie Rimel and Ginger Waller’s will discuss how the “better-for-you” snacking market is evolving beyond simple nutrition claims. Modern consumers now demand products that offer meaningful nutritional value without sacrificing superior taste, texture, and overall eating experience.
This shift is being accelerated by GLP-1 behaviors, which drive demand for nutrient-dense, satisfying snacks in smaller portions. While protein enrichment and sugar reduction are key purchase drivers, a critical gap remains between consumer health expectations and product reality. Rimel and Waller will provide practical insights into closing this gap, demonstrating how brands can design snacks that successfully meet these high standards, as sensory quality—rather than functional claims—is what ultimately secures repeat purchases.
📅 Monday, July 13, 2026
🕛 10:30 AM to 10:45 AM
📍 Exhibit Hall A: Taste of Science Stage
Ginger Waller
Manager, Technical Services Food & Beverage Food Scientist
Ginger Waller is the Manager Technical Services Food & Beverage. With over 20 years of experience at GELITA, Ginger provides essential technical assistance to current and potential customers, specializing in the application of collagen proteins and gelatin. She is actively involved in the research and development of new products within the edible and nutraceutical sectors, helping to drive innovation and support client success.
Angie Rimel
Marketing Communications Manager
Angie Rimel serves as the Marketing Communications Manager – North America for GELITA USA. Based in Sergeant Bluff, Iowa, she leads marketing and communication initiatives to elevate GELITA’s brand visibility and support its growth in the beauty, sports nutrition, and healthy aging sectors.
Why Collagen Peptides for Beverages?
Collagen peptides offer a unique combination of functionality, formulation ease, and proven benefits:
- Beauty from Within – Supports skin elasticity, hydration, and overall appearance
- Active Aging – Helps maintain mobility, bone strength, and joint health
- Performance Nutrition – Supports muscle mass and recovery
- Clean Label & Versatility – Neutral taste, clear solubility, no E-numbers
Collagen peptides are highly soluble, heat- and acid-stable, and designed for clear beverages with no impact on taste or texture, making them ideal for RTDs, shots, powders, and functional waters.
Elevate Active Nutrition with OPTIBAR® and SOLUFORM®
Today's consumers are embracing a more proactive approach to health, seeking products that support active lifestyles, healthy aging, weight management, and overall well-being. At the same time, emerging GLP-1 behaviors are increasing demand for nutrient-dense foods and beverages that deliver greater nutritional value in smaller portions. GELITA helps manufacturers rethink what protein can do and offer smart solutions such as:
