KANSAS CITY — Beverage manufacturers are tapping into consumer demand for functional drinks and indulgent offerings.
Seattle-based Starbucks expanded its portfolio of ready-to-drink products with Starbucks Iced Energy. The carbonated beverage features 160 mg of caffeine and is formulated to support mental clarity, according to the company. Flavors include peach, watermelon and blueberry lemonade. The company also added Frappuccino Lite beverages to its line that have 100 calories per serving, no added sugars and come in flavors like sea salt caramel, vanilla and chocolate.
“We always keep a pulse on the latest consumer trends and preferences to ensure we’re continuing to evolve our ready-to-drink Starbucks beverage portfolio to meet consumer demand,” said Jennifer Wong, vice president, Americas channel development at Starbucks. “That’s why we’re excited to bring to market two new ready-to-drink product innovations, Starbucks Iced Energy and Frappuccino Lite, to expand our portfolio and offer alternative drink options that fit everyday consumer needs.”
The Coca-Cola Co. launched Simply Pop, a prebiotic soda, under its Simply brand. The drinks are formulated with 25% to 30% fruit juice from concentrate, 6 grams of prebiotic fiber, zero added sugars, vitamin C and zinc.
“We found that consumers, especially wellness-focused Gen Z-ers and millennials, were really interested in juice and prebiotic sodas,” said Becca Kerr, chief executive officer of nutrition at The Coca-Cola Co. “And since many brands in this category are new, they were looking to align with names they know and trust for both quality and taste.
“This was particularly true for those curious about prebiotic sodas but who hadn’t yet taken the leap. We knew that in order to bring new drinkers into the category, we had to strike that perfect balance of innovation and trust.”
Plant-based beverage maker Califia Farms debuted its Creamy Refreshers line aimed at consumers seeking “mindful indulgences.” Formulated from a blend of fruit juices and coconut cream, the drinks contain 10 or less grams of sugar per serving. Flavors include strawberry creme, key lime colada, piña colada and orange creme.
“Over the last 15 years, Califia Farms has loved experimenting with the endless possibilities of plants,” said Suzanne Ginestro, chief marketing officer, Califia Farms. “Creamy Refreshers is a perfect example of how that innovation unlocked something new, delicious and fresh.”