Sweet Talk: A Profile of Stevia Pioneer James May
James May, the man who brought stevia to the U.S., wanted to offer consumers a healthy alternative to sugar. But before he got there, he faced more than the usual set of bureaucratic roadblocks.
Review: Bolthouse Farms Kids Smoothies
Bolthouse Farms Kids Smoothies are the company's newest addition to its portfolio of beverages premium juices and smoothies. Made with an all-natural formulation including fruit purees and juices from concentrate and no added preservatives, the company promotes the drinks as being "designed for maximum kid craveability." In a crowded category, however, the line is not one that’s overly innovative or unique.
Analysts, Investors Cheer Coke Investment in Monster
The announcement that the Coke has acquired a minority stake in Monster elicited a swarm of analyst reports on the purchase, which most view as immensely positive for both companies.
1/6 of a Monster: Coke Pays $2.15B for Stake in Energy Drink Giant
A long-discussed investment took place this afternoon when Coke bought 16.7 percent of Monster for a $2.15 billion payout.
Chilled Innovation: ZICO Unveils New Coconut Water Blends
ZICO said that the new line is aimed at reaching mainstream consumers who want to make better choices when it comes to healthy eating, but are not willing to compromise on taste.
Garden of Flavor Responds to FDA Letter
“We respectfully disagree with the FDA letter,” said founder Lisa Reed. “At Garden of Flavor, current good manufacturing practices, sanitation and food safety is our top priority."
UPDATED: FDA Sends Warning Letters to Three Beverage Companies
The FDA has sent warning letters to two juice brands and a Brooklyn, N.Y.-based food and beverage company regarding infractions of sanitation and product claims.
Review: AriZona Oak Reserve Tea
Taking a cue from flavor innovation often seen in alcoholic beverages, AriZona Beverages has launched a new line of teas brewed with oak chips. AriZona’s Oak Reserve Tea is certainly an interesting concept, but we're not clear as to why a consumer would choose this product over another tea.
Press Clips: PepsiCo Tries Cashew Apples
PepsiCo thinks juice from cashew apples, sourced in India, could work as a nice substitute for more common juice ingredients, according to The New York Times.
Channel Check – Lemonade
Looks like Calypso may have finally hit a ceiling, while Hubert’s and Coke’s own revamped Fuze are gaining strength on the bottled side. Cabana continues to announce new distribution, but the base has stayed low. On the whole, the category stayed strong on the warm-shelf side.
BevNET’s 2014 Natural Beverage Guide is NOW AVAILABLE
BevNET’s annual Natural Beverage Guide is the industry’s largest guide to drinks targeting the natural channel. From kombucha and cold-pressed juices to enhanced waters and powder mixes, the guide includes dozens of natural brands as well as a range of companies that supply goods and services to beverage manufacturers. View or download the guide today!
At Last, CSDs Record Positive Sales Figures
It feels kinda funny to write, but here goes: the carbonated soft drink (CSD) category recorded a positive four-week growth period in sales. It’s the first time that’s happened in more than a year.
Way Better Snacks CEO to Talk Differentiation at FBU L.A.
Jim Breen, the founder and CEO of fast-growing Way Better Snacks, will be on hand to discuss the role of differentiation in establishing and helping grow entrepreneurial brands during FBU.
BODYARMOR’s Sporting Chance
Gatorade has had its run over the past 40 years. The BodyArmor argument is that there are better ingredients, branding and pricing that will appeal to consumers and retailers.