Energy gels: what matters in liquid sport nutrition

This shift is also changing expectations towards nutrition. Consumers are looking for solutions that fit seamlessly into their activities. Products that are easy to use, deliver functional benefits and support performance in a practical way are gaining importance. Sports nutrition is no longer a niche category. It has become part of a broader approach to managing energy, recovery and overall wellbeing.

Within this context, liquid sport nutrition formats such as energy gels have established themselves as a reliable option. Their relevance becomes particularly clear in endurance sports, where energy supply is a key factor for maintaining performance over longer periods.

Modern energy gels are designed to respond to this challenge in a targeted way. For activities lasting longer than 90 minutes, glycogen stores decrease significantly, making external carbohydrate intake essential. Rather than simply delivering fast energy, today’s formulations aim to provide a more balanced and sustained supply.

This is achieved through a combination of different carbohydrate sources. Dextrose enables quick availability, while maltodextrin supports intermediate release. Isomaltulose, known as Palatinose™, contributes to a more gradual conversion in the body, leading to a more stable blood glucose response. As a result, energy is supplied more evenly, which is particularly relevant for long-duration performance.

At the same time, formulations increasingly include electrolytes such as sodium and magnesium. These help to compensate for losses during prolonged activity and support normal muscle and nerve function.

Another important aspect is usability. The evolution towards liquid and drinkable gels reflects a clear need: products must be easy to consume under real conditions. A fluid consistency allows intake without additional water, which simplifies handling during exercise.

Why energy gels are essential in endurance sports

For endurance disciplines, maintaining energy levels over time is critical. As physical activity continues, the body relies increasingly on external carbohydrate intake to sustain performance.

Energy gels provide a compact and practical solution. They can be consumed during activity without interrupting movement or focus. This makes them particularly suitable for long-distance applications such as marathons, cycling events or triathlons.

Market data from Mintel confirms that such formats are gaining relevance. Sports nutrition is now widely used across Europe:

• In the UK, 49% of adults used a sports nutrition product within a three-month period leading up to November 2025

• In Germany, usage increased from 43% in 2023 to 47.2% in 2025

• Energy formats such as bars, gels and blocks already reach 31% of users in Germany

• 72% of German consumers state that these products help them save time when managing nutrient intake

These figures highlight a clear development. Convenience and functionality are no longer optional. They are expected. Source: Mintel, Germany 2026

Carbohydrate design: from fast to sustained energy supply

The effectiveness of an energy gel depends largely on how its carbohydrates are structured. The goal is not only to deliver energy quickly, but to maintain supply over time. Combining different carbohydrate types allows this balance. Fast-absorbing sugars provide immediate support, while more complex carbohydrates enable a slower, sustained release.

Isomaltulose/Palatinose plays a key role in this context. Derived from sugar beet, it is digested more slowly compared to conventional sugars. This contributes to a more stable energy profile and reduces the risk of rapid fluctuations. The result is not a single peak, but a more consistent supply. This is particularly beneficial in endurance scenarios where stability supports performance.

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