Plant-Based Functional Beverages and Sarcopenia: Nutritional Potential, Technological Challenges, and Future Directions

• Potential of plant-based beverages for muscle health and sarcopenia is understudied • Plant proteins can meet muscle health needs if complemented, fortified, and formulated • Lack of clinical trials in postmenopausal women, limits evidence and health claims • There is a lack in older nutrients requirements for preventing sarcopenia • Emerging technologies are fundamental for plant-proteins success in the industry With the global population continuing to age, the prevalence of age-related conditions such as poor muscle health and related sarcopenia is growing. Sarcopenia, the gradual loss of muscle mass and strength associated with aging, has recently become a major public health concern. Traditional interventions rely heavily on animal-based protein, even though there is growing interest in plant-based alternatives. Hence, questions about the feasibility, nutritional effectiveness, and environmental impact of plant-based proteins for muscle health in older adults rise. This review evaluates the potential of plant-based beverages in managing sarcopenia, focusing on the nutritional adequacy of plant proteins and their techno-functional suitability for product development. The narrative and bibliometric analyses indicate that, although animal-derived proteins still dominate sarcopenia management, advances in food technology and changing consumer preferences are opening promising opportunities for plant-based functional products to support healthy aging. Nevertheless, important gaps remain in understanding the nutritional needs of older individuals, especially regarding plant proteins. Future research should address: (1) protein intake guidelines tailored to older adults, covering both dose and protein source for counteracting sarcopenia; (2) exploit the use of processing innovations that enhance digestibility and bioavailability, solubility, and sensory quality of plant proteins; (3) the lack of sex-specific investigations, particularly in postmenopausal women, who are disproportionately affected by sarcopenia; and (4) the need for integrated, evidence-based work that translates current knowledge into practical and cost-effective interventions for sarcopenia management.