Latest news with #Fairlife
Business Insider
3 days ago
- Health
- Business Insider
Dairy is so back. It's now a high-protein, gut-healthy superfood shoppers love.
Want to snack on something that's high in protein, gut-friendly, minimally processed, and tastes good? Hit the dairy aisle. After years of being outshone and relegated to second best by shiny, new plant-based alternatives like oat milk and cashew cream, dairy is not only in demand, it's having a glow-up. Products like mint chocolate cookie probiotic ice cream and pistachio-flavored kefir — some of which come wrapped in whimsical, retro-style packaging — are hitting the market as dairy finds itself at the center of the Venn diagram of health, food, and cultural trends. "I really have not seen this type of dairy innovation in past years," Jessica Rubino of New Hope Network, an organic-focused consultancy firm that tracks US food and drink industry trends, told Business Insider. According to the organization's insights, the organic dairy sector grew by 9.8% in 2024, up from 5.6% the previous year — far higher than the one or two percent a year increase seen since around 2015. "That type of increase in growth is pretty significant," Rubino said. Dairy aligns with health trends With 82% of US consumers considering wellness a top or important priority in their everyday lives, according to 2024 trend data from McKinsey, food and drink can't just taste good, it needs to provide health benefits too. A large part of dairy's appeal right now is that it's high in protein and minimally processed. Whether you want to eat enough protein to build muscle, you use a GLP-1 and need more protein to maintain muscle mass or are a member of the manosphere following the carnivore diet, we've gone protein-crazy in recent years. The global protein market is estimated to reach over $47.4 billion by 2032, up from $26 billion in 2021, according to Statista. Protein-enhanced products, such as sodas, waters, powders, and bars, have taken over grocery store aisles. Fairlife, the industry leader in ultra-filtered milk, which contains 50% more protein than regular milk, has seen dollar sales rise by 31% in the past 12 months, according to data from market research agency Circana. The milk is filtered to separate its components (water, lactose, protein, fat, and vitamins and minerals) and reformulated. Lactose and sugar are removed, and protein is concentrated. Melissa Altobelli, a dairy industry analyst at Circana, told BI that Fairlife, which has been around since 2012, has exploded in popularity recently because its product chimes with current trends. "It's not that the effort wasn't made in the past. It's just more appealing to consumers currently," she said, adding: "Protein is in everything at this point, and that's what consumers are looking for." Rubino also sees gut health as a particularly big draw for dairy, as people seek out functional foods to "optimize" their health and live longer. "You can get high dosages of probiotics through these food products," she said. The ultra-processed foods backlash is good news for dairy As ultra-processed foods take over from carbs as the demon of the dietary world, shoppers are losing their appetite for them. Typically long-lasting and designed to be irresistible and easy to eat, these foods contain ingredients you wouldn't find in a regular kitchen, such as gums, emulsifiers, and colors. Mounting research links ultra-processed foods to a host of health conditions — from type 2 diabetes to depression and poor gut health. As public awareness of ultra-processed foods has grown, people have become more wary of alt milks, which typically contain additives, Amy Bentley, a professor of food studies at NYU who specializes in the American diet, told BI. "Alt meat and alt milk don't want to be put in that category. They want to say, 'Hey, we're different.' But if you read those ingredient labels of some of those alt products, they are very, very ultra processed," she said. This has been dairy's gain: "The pendulum has swung back," Andrea Hernández, the author of the food trends newsletter Snaxshot, told BI. "Milk was the original functional drink," Hernández said, "and it's become culturally cool again." "Consumers are still looking for simple ingredients and naturalness," Altobelli said. And traditional dairy products, like unflavored yogurts and cottage cheese, as well as more innovative ones like Fairlife, fit the bill. The cult status of raw dairy in a MAHA world Dairy products, including raw milk, have become part of a cultural conversation in the past year or so. Fans of raw milk say it contains more beneficial microbes than pasteurized milk and can protect against allergies and asthma. Food scientists, however, argue that the ostensible benefits of raw milk are outweighed on a population level by the risk of catching bird flu or being poisoned by E. coli. Raw milk, along with beef tallow and butter, has also become synonymous with the "make America healthy again," or MAHA, movement. Its spearhead, Robert F. Kennedy Jr, the US Health Secretary, said in June 2024 that he only drinks raw milk and, before he was appointed, criticized what he called the FDA's "aggressive suppression" of raw milk, which he said on X in October 2024 "advances human health." In late May, he took shots of the stuff in the White House on a podcast. Federal law prohibits the sale of raw milk across state lines, but individual state laws, not the FDA, dictate whether it can be sold within that state. Raw milk enthusiasts include people across the political and cultural spectrum. Republican congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene posted "Raw Milk does a body good" on X in October 2024. Gwyneth Paltrow, an early adopter of wellness culture, said she adds raw milk creamer to her coffee every morning. And "tradwife" influencer and dairy farmer Hannah Neeleman, who posts as "Ballerina Farm" online, was featured milking one of her cows on the cover of the conservative women's magazine Evie in November, emblazoned with the words " The New American Dream." Hernández said there is a "romanticization of a dairy farm or a farmer's life." "It's become trendy to be able to say, 'Oh, I got this $20 raw milk jug at Erewhon,'" the Los Angeles-based health food store known for its $20 smoothies, she said. The next era for dairy: exotic flavors with health benefits People may want their meals to be nutritious, but that doesn't mean they're willing to compromise on taste. On top of wellness, consumers, and Gen Z in particular, are looking for "unusual flavors as they seek new and unique experiences," according to branding consultancy and market research agency VML's Future 100: 2025 trends report. One in four of us want "interesting and exotic global flavor combinations," the report said. If the offerings at Natural Products Expo West, a prolific trade show for organic, sustainable food and beverage products, which took place in California in March, are any indication, brands are meeting the moment. Attendees could try ashwagandha -infused or Aleppo chile-flavored ghee, pineapple cottage cheese, and reduced-sugar chai tea-flavored yogurt. Alec's, an organic ice cream brand that displayed at the trade show, launched their Culture Cup, a 4 fl oz cup of ice cream with added pre- and probiotics, in April with flavors including chocolate-covered strawberry and dark chocolate honeycomb. All Things Butter, a company founded by the British chef Thomas Straker in 2023, has also gained traction for its flavored butters. Current products include cinnamon bun butter, chocolate butter, and smoked paprika butter. Unlike traditional butter packaging, its butter sticks come in colorful foil adorned with anthropomorphic cartoon cows. It was the first "very yassified, very millennial looking" dairy brand Hernández noticed, but she's certain we'll see many more.
NDTV
6 days ago
- Business
- NDTV
Ozempic Users Flock To Protein Shake Now Named America's Unhealthiest Bottled Drink
Water is the best way to hydrate, but if you're craving something else, be cautious. Many bottled drinks like juice and protein shakes may seem healthy, but they're often high in sugar. These convenient drinks can exceed daily recommended sugar intake, making them a less healthy choice than they appear. Fairlife's Core Power protein shakes have been named the unhealthiest bottled beverage in America by food and nutrition magazine Eat This, Not That!, despite their popularity among fitness enthusiasts and Ozempic users. The shakes' muscle-boosting reputation is overshadowed by concerns over their nutritional content, sparking surprise and concern among consumers. A news portal consulted dietitian Mary Sabat, MS, RDN, LD, who identified the seven unhealthiest food choices-ranking Core Power Protein Shakes as the worst among them for health impact. They are a go-to for many after a workout or to boost their protein intake, but Sabat says these drinks are highly problematic. "I put these first because they are so highly marketed as a great source of protein and a healthy food when in reality they are a disaster to your metabolic health," Sabat says. "Core Power Protein Shakes may seem like a convenient post-workout drink, but a closer look at the ingredients reveals several health concerns." She explains, "They use non-organic, conventional dairy, which often comes from cows fed GMO corn and soy and may contain residues of hormones and antibiotics-unlike grass-fed dairy, which is higher in omega-3s and CLA and free from harmful residues. The addition of carrageenan, a thickening agent linked to gut inflammation and irritation, further detracts from its health profile." Sabat also points out other harmful ingredients. "Artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium are also used, both of which have been associated with gut microbiome disruption and potential carcinogenic effects in animal studies," she says. Sabat adds, "Lastly, the label includes 'natural flavours," a term that can encompass up to 100 different undisclosed chemical additives, many of which are far from natural. Together, these ingredients make Core Power far less healthy than its marketing implie"s.
New York Post
7 days ago
- Business
- New York Post
Ozempic users are hooked on this popular drink — which was just ranked the unhealthiest bottled beverage in the US right now
They're pumping protein — and guzzling sugar bombs. Fairlife's Core Power protein shakes — beloved by fitness fanatics and Ozempic users alike — have just been crowned the unhealthiest bottled beverage in America, despite their muscle-boosting reputation, according to Eat This, Not That! Shakes like these are a 'great way to start the day without having to sit down and have a full breakfast,' gushed Elise Ramer, a 42-year-old PR pro in Florida, previously reported on by The Post. Advertisement Ramer said she puts Core Power in her coffee while taking the weight-loss drug Mounjaro — since users need to focus on their protein intake due to the possible muscle loss side effect. But nutrition experts are throwing a red flag on the play. 'I put these first [as the unhealthiest bottled drink in the U.S.] because they are so highly marketed as a great source of protein and a healthy food when in reality they are a disaster to your metabolic health,' registered dietitian Mary Sabat recently told Eat This, Not That! Advertisement 3 Experts warn that protein shakes — a hit with many Ozempic users (above) — are hyped as health drinks but are actually a metabolic meltdown in a bottle. myskin – 'Core Power protein shakes may seem like a convenient post-workout drink, but a closer look at the ingredients reveals several health concerns.' The shakes are made by Fairlife, owned by Coca-Cola, and boast up to 42 grams of protein per bottle — but that muscle comes with a side of controversy. According to Sabat, it's not just about sugar. 'They use non-organic, conventional dairy, which often comes from cows fed GMO corn and soy and may contain residues of hormones and antibiotics — unlike grass-fed dairy, which is higher in omega-3s and CLA and free from harmful residues,' she told the outlet. Advertisement 'The addition of carrageenan, a thickening agent linked to gut inflammation and irritation, further detracts from its health profile.' Sabat also slammed the inclusion of artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium, warning they've been 'associated with gut microbiome disruption and potential carcinogenic effects in animal studies.' 3 The shakes, churned out by Coca-Cola-owned Fairlife, pack a whopping 42 grams of protein — but that muscle boost comes with a side of scandal. And it's not just sugar, warns Sabat. Jammy Jean – She added, 'Lastly, the label includes 'natural flavors,' a term that can encompass up to 100 different undisclosed chemical additives, many of which are far from natural. Together, these ingredients make Core Power far less healthy than its marketing implies.' Advertisement That hasn't stopped the protein craze. Thanks to the Ozempic effect, these shakes are flying off shelves faster than a gym bro's tank top. Sales of protein and meal-replacement drinks surged 11.1% to a whopping $4.7 billion last year — and it's the Ozempic army leading the charge, retail tracker SPINS revealed. As The Post previously reported, Rila Global Consulting found 13% of those on GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro had consumed protein shakes in the past two years. But some experts warn that overloading on protein — especially the highly processed kind — can backfire. 3 As The Post previously reported, 13% of Ozempic and Mounjaro users have chugged protein shakes in the past two years, according to Rila Global Consulting. Tobias Arhelger – Dr. Joseph Antoun, CEO of longevity company L-Nutra, previously told The Post that too much animal protein can raise IGF-1 levels, a hormone linked to accelerated aging, cancer and diabetes. 'The goal isn't to just build muscle — it's to live long enough to use it,' he said. In the meantime, maybe stick to a protein-packed egg — and leave the mystery 'natural flavors' to the lab rats.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
KO vs. KDP: Which Beverage Player is More Refreshing for Investors?
The global beverage industry is undergoing transformation. At the center of this stands a compelling showdown between two very different giants: The Coca-Cola Company KO and Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. KDP. This industry, once dominated by legacy carbonated soft drinks, now spans a wide range of categories, including premium waters, ready-to-drink coffees, low- or no-sugar beverages, and functional drinks. KO and KDP each bring distinct strengths and strategies to the table as they compete for market share in this increasingly health-conscious and convenience-driven Coca-Cola, with more than 130 years of brand equity, commands unmatched global reach and a singular focus on beverages, KDP is a newer yet increasingly influential player that combines traditional soft drink power with a disruptive presence in the at-home coffee and beverage appliance segment. The contrast between these companies reflects the growing complexity of the beverage industry, where innovation, convenience, and health-conscious offerings are reshaping consumer face-off goes beyond classic soda wars; it is a battle of business models, innovation pipelines, strategic positioning, and shareholder returns. From financial performance and operational efficiency to product diversification and future growth potential, we will explore how these two players stack up in a rapidly changing you're betting on scale and legacy or disruption and agility, the competition between KO and KDP offers key insights for investors. So, let us dive into the numbers and the strategies to see which contender holds the stronger hand in today's beverage take a closer look. As one of the most recognized consumer brands in the world, Coca-Cola continues to dominate the global non-alcoholic beverage industry with an unmatched portfolio of more than 30 billion-dollar brands. With operations in more than 200 countries, Coca-Cola commands a significant value share across key beverage categories and channels, including both at-home and away-from-home consumption. Approximately 30% of its volume now comes from low- or no-calorie beverages, highlighting its alignment with evolving consumer health business strategy is built around an 'all-weather' approach, meaning it is designed to work well in both good and challenging times. Coca-Cola offers a wide range of products from classic sodas like Coca-Cola Zero Sugar and Sprite to dairy drinks like Fairlife, bottled waters like Dasani and Smartwater, and new health-focused options like Simply Pop, a prebiotic soda. The company adjusts its pricing and packaging to match what people can afford and works closely with its bottling partners to make sure products are available everywhere.A key pillar of Coca-Cola's growth is its investment in digital innovation and marketing personalization. Through platforms like Studio X, the company delivers localized, data-driven marketing content at scale. It also integrates connected packaging to deliver immersive consumer experiences, most notably through its 'Share a Coke' campaign, reintroduced in 2025 with a Gen Z-focused digital twist. Coca-Cola's digital ecosystem supports more than 100,000 customers in India alone, while its AI-powered tools are enhancing marketing efficiency and spend optimization. Keurig Dr Pepper has emerged as a powerful force in the beverage industry, successfully bridging the gap between established category leadership and disruptive innovation. With a diverse portfolio that spans carbonated soft drinks, premium coffee, energy beverages, and hydration products, KDP competes in virtually every key segment of the non-alcoholic beverage market. Brands like Dr Pepper, Canada Dry, and 7UP continue to gain market share, while newer offerings, such as Electrolit and Ghost, are expanding the company's reach into high-growth categories like sports hydration and company's strategic approach focuses on balancing short-term execution with long-term brand building. In its cold beverage portfolio, KDP has emphasized innovation, brand refreshes, and expanded distribution, all underpinned by full-funnel marketing and retail execution. In coffee, the company is reshaping its future growth through premium offerings like La Colombe and Lavazza, investing in next-generation systems, such as Keurig Alta, and exploring more sustainable brewing formats like a consumer and digital engagement perspective, KDP is highly attuned to emerging demographics and market trends. It is expanding its presence among consumers, introducing brands that resonate with younger and more health-conscious audiences, and scaling female-forward innovations like Bloom Sparkling Energy. Digital innovation is a growing pillar, with the company leveraging data-driven marketing and personalized content to boost brand relevance and conversion. This modern, insight-led approach, coupled with a portfolio that covers every major beverage occasion from morning coffee to evening refreshment, makes KDP a compelling investment. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Coca-Cola's 2025 sales and EPS implies year-over-year growth of 2.4% and 2.9%, respectively. The EPS estimates have remained stable in the past 30 days. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Keurig's 2025 sales and EPS suggests year-over-year growth of 5.6% and 6.1%, respectively. EPS estimates have moved up by a penny in the past 30 days. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Coca-Cola currently trades at a forward 12-month P/E ratio of 23.45X, which is above the Zacks Beverages - Soft drinks industry average of 18.66X. In contrast, KDP trades at a lower multiple of 16.19X, making it the more value-oriented pick among the two. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Coca-Cola's higher multiple is justified by its superior performance, global dominance, and consistent execution, which warrant a valuation KDP being the more value-oriented option based on valuation alone, investors pay up for KO because it consistently delivers stronger returns. Over the past year, Coca-Cola stock has gained 13.7%, outperforming KDP and the broader industry's decline of 1.2% and 4%, respectively. While KDP offers a lower valuation, Coca-Cola's stronger stock performance and solid growth trajectory give it the edge. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Despite its growing influence, KDP still lacks the global scale and market penetration of Coca-Cola, which operates in more than 200 countries and owns many of the world's top-selling beverage brands. While KDP shows strong momentum in innovation, it still trails Coca-Cola in brand equity and global brand recognition. Coca-Cola's century-old legacy and deep emotional connection with consumers around the world give it a commanding edge in terms of loyalty, trust, and cross-border KDP is undoubtedly a rising contender with impressive agility, it remains in the shadow of Coca-Cola's unmatched global infrastructure, legacy, and portfolio for investors seeking stability, consistent brand-driven growth, and long-term value creation, Coca-Cola stands out as the stronger, more reliable choice. KO currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), whereas KDP has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report CocaCola Company (The) (KO) : Free Stock Analysis Report Keurig Dr Pepper, Inc (KDP) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research
The Star
19-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Danone enters protein shake market with new yogurt
FILE PHOTO: French food group Danone logo is seen on products displayed in a supermarket in Paris, France, January 24, 2025. REUTERS/Gonzalo Fuentes/File Photo NEW YORK: Danone has introduced a new protein shake under its Oikos yogurt brand as rivals Fairlife and Chobani that have similar products gain popularity with consumers and those taking weight-loss drugs such as Wegovy. The company is looking to enter the US$7bil protein shake market, said Shane Grant, global deputy chief executive of Danone, in an interview last month. 'Three-quarters of US consumers want more protein in their diet, and GLP-1s are only accelerating this demand,' Grant said, referring to the weight-loss medications. 'We see the explosive growth across lots of demographics and occasions.' Danone said it spent about one year developing the shake, which is priced at US$3.69. People taking weight-loss drugs are encouraged to eat more protein to avoid losing muscle, Reuters has reported, leading to food makers such as Nestle and Conagra offering new products high in the nutrients or re-labelling existing ones to meet the new demand. Makers of smoothies and shakes have also joined the trend. Coca-Cola's ultra-filtered milk brand Fairlife, which offers protein shakes, isn't specifically marketed to people on GLP-1s, but is growing substantially, Coca-Cola executives have said in recent calls with Wall Street analysts, helping buoy the entire company. — Reuters Trading ideas: Samaiden, Gamuda, Hextar Capital, Pekat, Magma, ACME, MRCB, Avillion, EG, Paradigm REIT, Maxis, CSC, PIE
