Protein — you want it, we go it. Whether you’re over it already or still maxxing out, there’s no debate that protein is one of the most powerful beverage innovation trends of the moment, as seen at Natural Products Expo West last week. Here’s a look at category’s latest new entrants and extensions.
Gym Soda
Gym Soda is the latest entrant into the clear protein soft drink set, courtesy of fitness energy drink Gym Weed. Available in 12 oz. stout cans in three flavors (Grapefruit Citrus, Grape and Cola), Gym Soda has 15 grams of protein and 3 grams of sugar. The brand’s Cola flavor also includes 45 mg of caffeine while the other two varieties are caffeine-free. For more information, visit gymweed.com.
Elmhurst
Having touched a range of plant-based dairy categories already, Elmhurst is introducing its first-ever dedicated protein line with Clean Protein, rolling out to stores this month as an exclusive with Sprouts. The shelf-stable four-SKU line ($4.99 each) features 27 grams of protein per 11 oz. carton, and is available in three cashew milk-based flavors – Sea Salt Chocolate, Vanilla and Strawberries & Cream – and one pistachio-based flavor, Pistachio Creme. Visit elmhurst1925.com to learn more.
Vital Proteins
Vital Proteins is continuing to innovate in RTD formats with Collagen Sparkling Water, a line of 12 oz. canned drinks made with zero sugar, collagen peptides and Vitamin C. Touting skin, hair and nail support, the beverages are now available in select retailers and come in Blood Orange, Lemon Lime and Strawberry Blossom flavors. For more information go to vitalproteins.com.
Koia
Koia sampled some test innovation at this year’s Expo West with Protein Waters. Both packaging and formulations are still being tweaked ahead of a scheduled Q3 launch. Currently, each flavor contains 16 grams of protein, 6 grams of fiber and zero sugar with 90 calories per 12 oz. bottle, however final specs are subject to change. For more on the brand go to drinkkoia.com.
Lifeway
Kefir producer Lifeway Foods showcased its take on the protein trend with Lifeway Muscle Mate, a line of drinkable kefir made with 20 grams of protein and 5 grams of creatine in 8 oz. bottles. Available in Mixed Berry, Strawberry Banana and Vanilla varieties, the line is now in retail across the country. For more information go to lifewaykefir.com.
Remedy Organics
Refrigerated nutrition shake brand Remedy is expanding its protein options with a trio of new releases under the Pro Power banner, each with 35 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber per 12 oz bottle. They are now available in Chocolate, Strawberry and Vanilla flavors at Sprouts and other retailers nationwide. To learn more, visit remedyorganics.com.
Super Coffee
Super Coffee’s product-focused channel strategy was on display at Expo West this year with Espresso + Protein, a zero-sugar line in 11 ounce cans designed for natural retail. Each SKU – Vanilla Sweet Cream and Espresso with Sweet Cream – contains 20 grams of protein (from ultra-filtered milk) and 90 calories, and 150mg caffeine. This one will be launching at Erehwon in June for around $3.49 per can. For more information, visit drinksupercoffee.com.
Bulletproof
Functional coffee brand Bulletproof has introduced Coffee + Creatine, an instant coffee made with 5 grams of creatine monohydrate per serving. The launch aims to help expand creatine use “beyond gym culture” and promotes both mental clarity and physical performance, the company says. It’s available now direct-to-consumer and through Amazon. For more information visit bulletproof.com.
Ka’Chava
To be fair, Ka’Chava is billed an “all-in-one nutrition shake” rather than just a protein drink. The company responded to fan demand with the launch of Coffee, which features the same plant-based protein (25 grams), 85+ superfoods and nutrients, adaptogens, probiotics, and antioxidants as the rest of the line. However, you may still need your morning cup: Ka’Chava’s blend is made with decaf. Get more details at kachava.com.
Everyday Dose
The popular next-gen, mushroom-boosted instant coffee is now getting more functionality with the addition of a +Protein line, launching on March 30 in Cold Brew and Vanilla varieties. This one features 10 grams of whey protein per serving (from A2 milk) and 90mg of caffeine from Arabica coffee + L-theanine, Chaga and Lion’s Mane, with zero artificial sweeteners. Learn more at everydaydose.com.