WATCH: Finding hibiscus beyond tea at Natural Products Expo East

Hibiscus, the colorful flower usually associated with tea, brightened many products at Natural Products Expo East. The tropical flower provides a rich hot pink or deep ruby red color to functional beverages and mocktails. A sprinkle of dried hibiscus on food offers a fun, bright pop of color not usually found on a plate. The unique tart flavor tastes excellent hot or cold, giving brands great versatility in its use.

Hibiscus is also known for a wealth of holistic health benefits, as it contains many antioxidants and can help boost the immune system. Botanicals will continue to be a trending ingredient, so it is inspiring to see this colorful one at play and showing up in many products. As an ingredient, hibiscus will be an easy-to-spot ingredient on shelves. Watch the video to see what products our editors spotted on the show floor.