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The Weekly Sip is Food Dive’s column focused on the latest news in the rapidly changing and growing beverage sector. From inaugural product lines to big investments and controversial topics, this column aims to quench the thirst for developments in the category.
Danone introduces plant-based milk for kids
Danone has announced the launch of a new plant-based milk specifically targeted towards children.
The company’s Silk brand is introducing Silk Kids, which is their first-ever plant-based beverage designed for kids aged five and up. Developed in collaboration with pediatricians, Silk Kids is made with an oatmilk blend to provide enhanced nutritional benefits.
Compared to Silk Original Almondmilk, Silk Kids contains at least 10% more of the daily value per serving of protein, vitamin D, potassium, riboflavin, phosphorus, iodine, and choline.
Kristie Leigh, registered dietitian and director of nutrition and scientific affairs at Danone North America, stated, “Delivering on both taste and nutrition is imperative, especially when it comes to nourishing kids. That’s why we developed Silk Kids – to provide targeted nutrition kids need in a plant-based beverage they’ll love, because mealtime shouldn’t be a struggle.”
Silk Kids will be available in 59-ounce cartons on select shelves this fall, with a nationwide rollout planned for early 2025.
Many parents struggle to find a plant-based milk they enjoy, with a survey revealing that one-third of consumers have not found a plant-based dairy product they like. Despite this, plant-based dairy options remain popular, with 64% of consumers purchasing them weekly alongside regular dairy. Health and nutrition were cited as the most important factors influencing purchase decisions.
—Christopher Doering
Celsius anticipates sales growth following co-packer acquisition
Energy drink company Celsius Holdings is optimistic about its growth prospects following a successful quarter.
Retail sales grew by 7.1% year-over-year in the latest quarter, outperforming the overall energy drinks category which saw a 2% increase. Celsius recently acquired its longtime co-packing partner, Big Beverages Contract Manufacturing, for $75 million, with CEO John Fieldy stating that this purchase will enhance its position in the energy drink market by leveraging its supply chain for new product development.
Fieldy explained, “In this instance, vertical integration, the opportunity to leverage the business a little bit and to have the optionality around LTOs and innovation and R&D was well worth it.”
Known for its better-for-you ingredients with zero sugar or aspartame, Celsius generated over $1.3 billion in revenue last year. The company is considering expanding into other categories such as water or food in the future.
—Chris Casey
XXI Martinis launches new holiday cocktails
The espresso martini has become a popular choice among consumers, leading one brand to introduce a bottled version of this classic cocktail.
XXI Martinis, a brand specializing in espresso martinis, has expanded its presence to 36 states and online sales. They have also released a limited edition flavor, Chocolate Peppermint Martini, and miniature bottles in preparation for the holiday season.
Angelo Bottley, co-founder of XXI and a renowned bartender, highlighted the convenience of their bottled espresso martini, stating, “There’s an alternative to the mundane hostess wine gift, and holiday gatherings don’t have to be stifled with messy and time-consuming cocktails.”
Priced at $34.99 per bottle, XXI Martinis’ offerings include flavors like chocolate, raspberry, and peach martini, each containing 15% alcohol-by-volume. The rise of ready-to-drink cocktails has seen an increase in popularity for espresso martinis, with brands like MOTH offering canned versions.
—Chris Casey