CHICAGO — PepsiCo, Inc. is introducing Tropicana Essentials Probiotics, a line of juices with live and active cultures. Varieties include strawberry banana, pineapple mango and peach passion fruit.
The beverages contain no added sugar, preservatives or artificial flavors and will be available in multi- and single-serve sizes nationwide early next year.
“We are thrilled to be the first to bring probiotics more commonly seen in yogurts, supplements and kombuchas to the mainstream juice aisle,” said Björn Bernemann, vice-president and general manager for Tropicana North America. “As a heritage brand rooted in innovation, Tropicana is dedicated to launching significant innovation within the rapidly evolving health and wellness space.”
Health and wellness is a key driver of recent innovation at PepsiCo, which also is launching organic Gatorade varieties, Naked cold-pressed juices, Mtn Dew Kickstart with 60% less sugar, Stacy’s organic pita chips and Sabra vegetable-infused guacamole. In the company’s North America Beverages segment, product development efforts are directed at faster-growing spaces within the category, said Kirk Tanner, president and chief operating officer, North America Beverages, during a presentation for the investment community in September.
“When you play a portfolio strategy, you can see across your portfolio where you have growth, explosive growth and no growth,” Mr. Tanner said. “And… carbonated soft drinks — that’s in the low to no growth area. But we’ve seen explosive growth around teas, coffees, our sports portfolio with Gatorade, the water portfolio across enhanced waters and premium waters to everyday water. There’s a lot of growth in the category out there, and we’re watching where consumers are going.”
