Whey Out: Dairy-Based Brands Seek Plant-Powered Expansion

As consumers continue to embrace plant-based diets, the protein drink category is no exception to the growing trend towards vegan products. But as plant-based protein startups like OWYN and Koia grow, established companies that have long played in the animal-based sector are now looking to get in. This year, a number of protein drink makers — from PepsiCo-owned CytoSport to enhanced water maker Protein2o — are introducing new plant-based lines in a move to set the pace in an emerging market.

Protein2o Expands Retail Presence

Seizing on Americans’ love affair with protein and energy, Protein2o has logged impressive retail growth to grow the country’s number-one protein water brand. Leading the way is Protein2o’s newest innovation Protein2o PLUS Energy, which is popping up on store shelves and displays this Spring in CVS, Rite Aid, Discount Drug Mart, HyVee, Jewel, Tom Thumb, Randall’s and Central Market.

Protein2o Introduces Energy Line Extension

Protein2o Plus Energy contains 125 mg of natural caffeine from green coffee beans and 15 g of whey protein per 16.9 oz. PET bottle and is available in Blueberry-Raspberry and Cherry Lemonade flavors.