New beverage innovations focus on fulfilling consumer demands.
Wynk, a hemp-derived THC and CBD-infused seltzer from Wherehouse Beverage Co., is expanding into multiple states though online retailers and brick-and-mortar stores. The brand is tapping into the “Cali sober” trend and is a non-alcoholic alternative that creates “a balanced, light and social buzz,” according to the company. Available in three flavors, black cherry fizz, lime twist and juicy mango, the cans contain zero sugar and come in two dosage options 2.5 mg and 5 mg.
“The Wynk team is focused on creating a new, safe and exciting adult-beverage category that aligns with shifting consumer trends,” said Phil McFarland, general manager, THC beverages. “By working with age-gated retailers and utilizing precision dosing technology, we are ushering in a cultural turning point where regulations are thoughtfully crafted to provide a sensible framework for this category.”
Plant Press is formulating a better-for-you energy drink that it markets as “clean caffeine.” The beverages are formulated with electrolytes, vitamins and are free from preservatives, artificial sugars, gums, and natural food colorings. The brand’s energy drinks are available in grapefruit ginger, passionfruit peach and watermelon varieties.
Plant-based energy company Yerbaé introduced its latest innovation, 12-oz energy drinks. In response to consumer feedback, the company is downsizing its product from 16-oz to the smaller 12-oz size. The line extension is available in three flavors: mango passionfruit, black cherry pineapple and watermelon strawberry.
“Our new 12-oz sleek can is a game changer that brings together the best of our signature flavors and the convenience that our consumers have been craving,” said Todd Gibson, co-founder and chief executive officer of Yerbaé. “We are excited about this launch as we have heard the consumers request for a smaller package size of the products they love.”
Cold brew coffee maker Chameleon Organic Coffee, a SYSTM Foods brand, partnered with Girl Scouts of the USA to create a new series of Girl Scout Cookie-inspired cold brew products.
The beverages will feature Chameleon’s new french roast cold brew blend alongside Girl Scout Cookie flavors in a soy-free and gluten-free formulation. Joining Chameleon’s portfolio of cold brew coffees, concentrates, espressos and lattes, initial flavors will include thin mints, coconut caramel and chocolate peanut butter.
Chamberlain Coffee, a brand founded by influencer Emma Chamberlain, expanded its ready-to-drink latte line, which launched in April 2023, with the introduction of oat milk lattes. The first launch of the product featured a blend of almond milk and coconut cream, but after consumer feedback, the line is now formulated with oat milk, which offers a sweeter flavor. The ready-to-drink oat milk lattes are available in salted caramel and mocha flavors and are sweetened with cane sugar and date syrup.
Pennsylvania-based Victory Brewing Co. partnered with Flowers Foods Inc.’s Tastykake brand to release a “Koffee Kake” ale, which features notes of pound cake and cinnamon.
“Brand crossovers are on the rise in craft for the unique and special value they bring to drinkers,” said Kelly Irvine, brand manager of Victory Brewing Co. “As Victory entered the world of collaboration, it was especially important for us to select a partner whose identity, values and flavor profiles would align with ours in a way that connected with our loyal fanbase.”
Non-alcoholic wine startup OJOY Wine Co. launched OJOY Sparkling Blanc, the brand’s flagship product. The canned beverage features California wine run through OJOY’s dealcoholizing technology. Each glass of Sparkling Blanc contains 0.5% alcohol by volume, 15 calories, and flavor notes of apricot, black currant and citrus, according to the company.
Lemon Perfect, a maker of hydrating water that is backed by Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, debuted both new flavors and sizes of its products. In response to consumer demand, the company will replace its original 12-oz bottles with a new 15.2-oz size. Lemon Perfect also added three new flavors to its line: blueberry, coconut and watermelon.
May
2024
Spring has sprung—with new sandwiches.
New product introductions tap into trending consumer flavors.