Latest news with #healthydrinks
Washington Post
5 days ago
- Business
- Washington Post
What's the best prebiotic or probiotic soda? It's rough out there.
In recent years, drink cases at grocery stores and delis have been transformed into rainbow-colored seas. Cans of fizzy drinks — with Gen-Z-bait graphic design and bright hues — touting healthier-than-regular-soda properties are muscling up to the standard fare of bottled waters and juices. Many of these elixirs aren't just promising to take the place of a traditional sodas, only with lower sugar and fewer calories — they also claim to offer health benefits, including the holy grail of buzzy wellness: 'gut health.'
Globe and Mail
27-05-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
From Gut Health to Recovery Drinks, This Category Is Just Getting Started
Equity Insider Issued on behalf of Safety Shot, Inc. VANCOUVER, BC, May 27, 2025 /CNW/ -- Equity Insider News Commentary – As consumer preferences continue to shift, refreshment is no longer just about quenching thirst—it's increasingly about delivering benefits. Functional beverages, which offer everything from clean energy and hydration to mood and immunity support, are emerging as one of the most dynamic segments in the industry. RBC Capital Markets' Nik Modi identifies the category as a key growth engine over the next five years, while projections from Research and Markets and InsightAce Analytic forecast the market could grow to as much as $618.8 billion by 2034. With rising interest in temporary abstinence, mindful consumption, and non-alcoholic options, legacy beverage makers are taking notice. Among the brands gaining ground in this space are Safety Shot, Inc. (NASDAQ: SHOT), The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO), PepsiCo, Inc. (NASDAQ: PEP), The Kraft Heinz Company (NASDAQ: KHC), and Oatly Group AB (NASDAQ: OTLY).
Health Line
21-05-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Is Coke Zero Bad for You?
Coke Zero is calorie-free but has no nutritional value. While drinks with artificial sweeteners may have negative long-term effects, such as increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes, more research is needed. Coke Zero, recently rebranded as Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, is marketed as a healthier version of the original sugar-sweetened beverage, Coca-Cola Classic. It contains zero calories and sugar while providing the signature Coca-Cola flavor, appealing to those trying to reduce their sugar intake or control their weight. This article takes a detailed look at Coke Zero and explains whether it's a healthy choice. Zero nutritional value Coke Zero does not provide any calories and is not a significant source of nutrition. One 12-ounce (354-ml) can of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar (Coke Zero) offers: Calories: 0 Fat: 0 grams Protein: 0 grams Sugar: 0 grams Sodium: 2% of the Daily Value (DV) Potassium: 2% of the DV Artificial sweeteners are used to sweeten this beverage without adding calories. The health effects of artificial sweeteners are controversial, and concerns regarding their safety are growing. Though the research is inconsistent, some studies find that the use of artificial sweeteners may contribute to the development of obesity and metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that increase disease risk. Coca-Cola Zero Sugar (Coke Zero) uses several common artificial sweeteners, including aspartame and acesulfame potassium (Ace-K). The remaining ingredients are carbonated water, caramel color, food additives, and natural flavors. The only differences between Coke Zero and the new rebrand Coca-Cola Zero Sugar are minor changes to the natural flavor composition. Artificial sweeteners and weight loss Research results on the effects of Coke Zero and other artificially sweetened beverages on weight loss are mixed. In a 2023 52-week study of 493 adults, researchers found that compared to people who drank water, those who consumed beverages with non-nutritive sweeteners lost more weight over the study period, an average of 16.5 pounds (7.5 kilograms), compared to those who drank water, who lost an average of 13.4 pounds (6.1 kg). However, a similar 2023 study that lasted 12 weeks found no difference in weight loss among participants who drank water versus beverages with non-nutritive sweeteners. The researchers also examined other metrics, like waist circumference, but found no significant differences. The non-nutritive sweetener group lost slightly more to their waist circumference, but the difference was about 1 centimeter (cm). A 2023 review of research that looked at multiple studies suggests that non-nutritive sweeteners have no immediate effects on the metabolic or endocrine systems. The evidence on the effects of artificially sweetened beverages on weight management is conflicting, and more research is needed. Long-term research is also needed to determine if artificial sweeteners may influence the body in ways other than calorie intake. Diet sodas and tooth erosion Similarly to regular soda, drinking diet sodas like Coke Zero is associated with an increased risk of tooth erosion. One of the main ingredients in Coke Zero is phosphoric acid. One 2002 study on human teeth noted phosphoric acid causes mild enamel and tooth erosion. An older study from 2015 observed that Coca-Cola Light (Diet Coke), which differs from Coke Zero only in that it contains both phosphoric and citric acid, caused enamel and tooth erosion in freshly extracted cow's teeth in just 3 minutes. Still, the same 2002 study suggests that citric acid erodes teeth more than phosphoric acid, which suggests that Coke Zero may affect tooth enamel slightly less than Diet Coke. Diet Coke had less erosive effects than other beverages, such as Sprite, orange juice, and apple juice. Coke Zero and diabetes risk Coke Zero is sugar-free. However, the sugar substitutes it contains may not necessarily be a better option for people looking to reduce their risk of diabetes. A large 2023 study involving 105,588 participants with a follow-up of 9.1 years suggests that consuming non-nutritive sweeteners is associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A 2024 review of research suggests non-nutritive sweeteners may negatively affect the gut microbiome, or the helpful bacteria that live in your gut and aid digestion, potentially affecting metabolic health and contributing to diabetes risk and worse outcomes for people with diabetes. The results from these studies don't provide an exact explanation of how artificially sweetened beverages increase your risk of diabetes. Therefore, more research is needed. Other potential downsides Artificially sweetened beverages like Coke Zero have been linked to other health issues, including: Increased risk of heart disease: An observational study found a link between artificially sweetened beverages and an increased risk of heart disease among women with no prior history of heart disease. Increased risk of kidney disease: Soda's high phosphorus content may damage kidneys. A 2017 study noted that those who drink more than 7 glasses of diet soda per week nearly double their risk of kidney disease. Could alter your gut microbiome: Artificially sweetened beverages may alter your gut microbiome, potentially negatively affecting blood sugar management. Further research is needed to determine the exact effects of Coke Zero and other diet beverages on your health.
Associated Press
20-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
The $600B Beverage Shift: Why Function Is Outpacing Flavor
Equity Insider News Commentary Issued on behalf of Safety Shot, Inc. VANCOUVER, B.C., May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Equity Insider News Commentary – In the U.S. and abroad, analysts report that consumer interest in 'boosted' drinks—those promising anything from gut health to stress relief—is not only rising but redefining how wellness is consumed. RBC's Nik Modi recently told an industry forum that functionality and wellness will dominate beverage growth over the next decade, driven by aging populations and rising demand for convenience. Meanwhile, according to Research and Markets the global market is forecast to swell to nearly $175 billion by 2030, with women and APAC consumers leading the charge toward cleaner labels, fortified ingredients, and plant-based formats. Amid this shift, several public companies are positioning themselves for upside—including Safety Shot, Inc. (NASDAQ: SHOT), Tilray Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY), The Hain Celestial Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAIN), Zevia PBC (NYSE: ZVIA), and The Vita Coco Company, Inc. (NASDAQ: COCO). Beverages aren't just about quenching thirst anymore —they're becoming the delivery system of choice for health-conscious consumers. Analysts at Insightace Analytic are even more optimistic than Research and Markets, forecasting that the global functional beverage market could reach $618.8 billion by 2034, expanding at a steady 9.4% compound annual growth rate as drinks and supplements continue to converge into one of the most dynamic categories in consumer goods. Safety Shot, Inc. (NASDAQ: SHOT) is gaining early momentum in the functional beverage space, capturing interest with a patented formulation designed to support the body's natural ability to reduce blood alcohol content. The company is tapping into a fast-growing market segment where wellness meets nightlife, offering a solution built for modern consumers who want to enjoy their evening without paying the price tomorrow. At the heart of the product lineup is Sure Shot®—a first-of-its-kind beverage that has clinically shown in human trials that it works with the body's metabolism to help lower BAC and promote clearer, more energized mornings. With strong consumer appeal, growing retail visibility, and a strategic IP portfolio, Safety Shot is carving out a unique lane in the evolving better-for-you beverage category. Safety Shot's late-2023 rebrand and launch on Amazon made an immediate impact, with multiple sellouts signaling strong early traction. That momentum has continued into 2024, as more consumers look for functional options that fit into active social lifestyles. The company is finding its lane in a category that sits between energy drinks and next-day wellness support—an emerging sweet spot for performance-minded buyers. Backed by clinical research, the brand is building confidence with a product that does more than just hydrate. A peer-reviewed human study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Dietary Supplements reported that Sure Shot helped lower both blood and breath alcohol markers compared to placebo. Participants also noted feeling clearer and more alert—feedback that aligns with the product's positioning around smarter self-care and next-morning readiness. Availability has expanded rapidly, with Sure Shot now offered through Amazon, and retail names like 7-Eleven, Albertsons, Vons, and GoPuff. A newly launched stick-pack version enhances portability and consumer trial, while also improving merchandising flexibility and margin profile. On the IP front, Safety Shot recently secured an additional patent covering elements of its formulation—further strengthening its position in the wellness beverage landscape. This added layer of protection supports long-term brand value and provides a competitive moat as the category continues to evolve. To accelerate growth, the company has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Yerbaé Brands Corp., a plant-based energy drink company with an established retail footprint and over $12 million in trailing revenue. The move expands Safety Shot's reach into adjacent functional beverage markets, offering cross-category synergy and access to a broader health-conscious audience. As it scales, the company is evolving its marketing strategy —transitioning from early influencer efforts to targeted, grassroots brand-building. New retail activations and partnerships within the beverage and alcohol ecosystem are designed to drive trial, increase product visibility, and reinforce brand relevance at the point of consumption. Safety Shot has also initiated a spinout of its Caring Brands subsidiary, allocating 2 million shares to existing shareholders as part of a value-add initiative. Initially offered for a limited time, the program has been extended into the second half of 2025, giving more investors the opportunity to participate in the potential upside. With expanding distribution, clinical research, growing intellectual property, and a strategic acquisition in motion, Safety Shot is beginning to transition from early mover to category contender. Its focus remains on building a defensible brand that aligns with the modern consumer's pursuit of energy, clarity, and control. CONTINUED… Read this and more news for Safety Shot at: Tilray Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) latest expansion play targets both cannabis beverage fans and edible-curious consumers with the nationwide launch of XMG Atomic Sours. The brand is leveraging sour nostalgia to introduce a differentiated sensory experience in both drink and gummy formats. It also marks High Park Holdings' formal entry into the cannabis gummy space, broadening Tilray's platform. The release comes as functional beverage crossover products continue to gain momentum across retail channels. The Hain Celestial Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAIN) continues to lean into functional wellness trends through its beverage brands, which include plant-based and herbal offerings spanning global markets. Although beverage sales dipped this quarter, the company attributed the softness to non-dairy shifts in Europe and a delayed start to hot tea season. Management emphasized that innovation and portfolio discipline will drive recovery and growth. As market momentum builds around health-first consumption, Hain remains positioned to capitalize on structural tailwinds across the category. 'Going forward, we are focused on five key drivers for improving value: simplifying our business and reducing overhead spending, accelerating renovation and innovation in our brands, implementing strategic revenue growth management and pricing actions, driving operational productivity and working capital reduction, and strengthening our digital capabilities,' said Alison Lewis, Interim President and CEO of Hain Celestial. 'The opportunity ahead of us now is to unlock the full value of our business through focused and disciplined execution.' Zevia PBC (NYSE: ZVIA) reported first-quarter results that beat expectations on multiple fronts, including a record 50.1% gross margin and improved adjusted EBITDA. The company's flagship zero-sugar beverages (containing stevia) are gaining traction through new product formats and an aggressive marketing push, including a top-performing variety pack at Walmart. 'We are pleased to have delivered net sales at the high end of our guidance while meaningfully exceeding our adjusted EBITDA expectations for the first quarter,' said Amy Taylor, President and CEO of Zevia. 'Both our innovation and marketing strategies are yielding strong response.' The Vita Coco Company, Inc. (NASDAQ: COCO) is adding some summer flair to its functional beverage lineup with the launch of Piña Colada Coconut Juice with pulp. 'We wanted to capture the classic vacation feeling of a Piña Colada, but make it more accessible for everyday enjoyment, no blender or beach required,' said Jane Prior, Chief Marketing Officer of The Vita Coco Company. 'With summer just weeks away, Piña Colada Coconut Juice is the perfect addition to your favorite summer traditions.' The new flavor blends pineapple and coconut water to deliver hydration and nostalgia in a single can, tapping into the growing consumer trend toward flavorful, health-conscious alternatives. This expansion reflects the brand's continued strategy of pairing tropical indulgence with clean-label functionality. Article Sources: CONTACT: Equity Insider [email protected] (604) 265-2873 DISCLAIMER: Nothing in this publication should be considered as personalized financial advice. We are not licensed under securities laws to address your particular financial situation. No communication by our employees to you should be deemed as personalized financial advice. Please consult a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decision. This is a paid advertisement and is neither an offer nor recommendation to buy or sell any security. We hold no investment licenses and are thus neither licensed nor qualified to provide investment advice. The content in this report or email is not provided to any individual with a view toward their individual circumstances. This article is being distributed by Equity Insider on behalf of Media Corp. ('BAY'). 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Arab News
07-05-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Kingdom showcases defense innovation at Athens expo
What's the matcha with everyone? The beloved green tea powder hits mainstream in Saudi Arabia RIYADH: Once a niche ceremonial tea in Japan, matcha is now gaining mainstream popularity in Saudi Arabia, thanks to a growing interest in wellness trends, evolving taste preferences, and the rise of mindful living. The data backs the trend. According to a recent report by IMARC Group, Saudi Arabia's green tea market, which includes matcha, was valued at $140.14 million and is projected to grow to $229.24 million by 2033. Imports of packaged green tea nearly doubled in value between 2020 and 2023, suggesting a growing appetite for premium, health-focused drinks. That growing demand is reflected on cafe menus and social media feeds across the Kingdom. Matcha lattes, once limited to specialty coffee shops, are now a fixture at trendy cafes and home kitchens alike. Whether it's served iced in sleek glass cups or whisked at home with oat milk, matcha is more than a drink. It's a mood, a personal statement, and for many, a healthier way to start the day. In Dammam, 19-year-old Sara Anas remembers her first taste of matcha back in 2019. 'My dad likes trying new things,' she said. 'It didn't taste that great at first, but when matcha became popular in 2021, I got excited to try it again from local cafes.' Now, she drinks it almost daily. 'It might sound strange, but I don't feel like it's heavy on my body like coffee. It makes me feel more relaxed and gives me energy in a better way.' Anas is part of a growing demographic. In Riyadh, 26-year-old Amal Al-Mutairi starts every morning with matcha. 'I prefer it iced with vanilla milk to make the flavor smoother and lighter,' she said. For her, the appeal began with reading about its benefits. 'It gives me calm energy without the jitters or crash I usually feel after drinking coffee. It also helps me focus for longer periods.' That calm, focused energy — often described as a 'cleaner' caffeine experience — has made matcha especially popular among students and professionals. For Anas, it's a campus essential. 'It's a must before classes! It gives me the energy to continue my day at uni,' she said. But matcha is more than functional. It's become a lifestyle, embraced for both its wellness claims and its visual charm. Globally, matcha's rise is part of a broader wellness boom. Japan's matcha production rose 185 percent from 2010 to 2023, and demand is now so high that suppliers are warning of shortages. Japan's top growers have begun limiting exports to meet domestic needs. Matcha's health appeal is not just hype. Rich in antioxidants — especially a compound called EGCG — studies suggest it may reduce inflammation, support cardiovascular health, and aid cognitive function. A recent Saudi study also found that over half of the participants believed matcha could help with weight management and blood sugar balance. Still, experts note that moderation matters. Excessive matcha consumption may interfere with iron absorption and isn't recommended for everyone. The ritual of preparing matcha, especially for those who make it themselves, has become part of a broader shift toward slow, intentional living — something many young Saudis are leaning into. That ritual is deeply personal for 27-year-old Leen Al-Zamil, who turned matcha from curiosity into a daily indulgence. 'I was curious at first and honestly, I hated it so much, but I think (that's) because it was hot,' she said. 'I liked it cold with vanilla syrup and oat milk. I definitely can't drink it alone.' Now, she can't go a day without it. 'Sometimes twice or more,' she said. 'I like its color … I enjoy every step of making it, and it just tastes so good. It brightens my mood.' Al-Zamil is not the only one who sees matcha as more than just a drink. For 28-year-old Mona Abdullah, matcha represents healing. 'As someone who suffers from IBS, coffee tends to affect me for a while, whereas matcha provides steady energy without causing any discomfort,' she said. 'I've stopped drinking coffee for the past three months. I now believe that matcha is a better source of caffeine compared to black coffee.' Irritable bowel syndrome is a common digestive condition. Many people with IBS find that coffee, with its acidity and high caffeine content, can trigger discomfort, making gentler alternatives like matcha a preferred choice. Abdullah drinks it twice a day, iced, and without any added flavors. 'Health,' she says, is what made her switch. Still, matcha's appeal goes beyond health — it's also about aesthetics and culture. 'I think it's a mix of everything,' said Al-Mutairi. 'The health benefits, the taste, and yes, the aesthetic.' Anas echoed that idea, noting that people's motivations vary. 'For me, it's for its health benefits and for the taste. You don't usually get a healthy drink with a good taste,' she said. 'But I think there are a lot of people who drink it just for the aesthetic. You see them adding hundreds of syrups just to say they drink matcha.' That blend of wellness and image — serious health meets playful branding — has fueled matcha's surge on social media. With its bright green hue, minimalist packaging, and frequent cameos in cafe selfies, matcha has become the drink of the 'soft life' movement, one that prioritizes peace, balance, and pleasure. 'It's definitely the vibe and the taste,' said Al-Zamil. In a country where coffee culture runs deep, matcha is not replacing tradition; it's offering something new: a blend of taste, lifestyle, and personal meaning, one bright green cup at a time.
