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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.
Nonalcoholic beer gets a boost from Spider-Man star
Fans of Marvel’s web-slinging superhero now have a new way to enjoy nonalcoholic brews.
Actor Tom Holland, best known for his role as Peter Parker in the recent Spider-Man films, has launched Bero, a nonalcoholic beer brand aimed at consumers seeking a more balanced lifestyle.
Bero introduces three beverages: Kingston Golden Pils, Noon Wheat, and Edge Hill Hazy IPA, each containing less than 0.5% alcohol-by-volume. The brand, developed in collaboration with American brewers, draws inspiration from British brewing traditions as a tribute to Holland’s homeland.
Holland mentioned that his two years of sobriety inspired him to create these drinks.
“This beer isn’t just for those on a similar path, but for everyone who values quality, craftsmanship, and living life to the fullest,” Holland stated. “BERO delivers the taste and experience of a great brew, never settling for less.”
The brand’s products are now available online and will debut in Target stores in early 2023.
Bero is spearheaded by CEO John Herman, a seasoned CPG industry professional who previously served as president of Nutrabolt, the company behind C4 energy drinks and protein powders. Other partners of the brand include Imaginary Ventures and talent agency WME.
Bero will compete with other leading nonalcoholic beer brands like Athletic Brewing and non-alcoholic versions of popular beers such as Corona, Heineken, and Stella Artois. The nonalcoholic beer market is projected to reach $24.2 billion by 2029, with a 5% compound annual growth rate, according to Statista data.
— Chris Casey
Demand for bottled water on the rise
More consumers are declaring water as their preferred beverage, according to data from the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA).
An IBWA survey revealed that 89% of Americans consider water among their favorite drinks, marking a 6% increase from 2022.
The survey, conducted by The Harris Poll and encompassing over 2,000 U.S. adults aged 18 and above, indicated that nearly nine in 10 Americans consume bottled water and hold a positive view of it as a beverage choice.
Sixty-nine percent of respondents ranked bottled water as one of their top non-alcoholic beverages (up from 65% in 2022), surpassing soda (regular and/or diet) at 61% and coffee at 60%.
“Drinking water — be it tap, bottled, or filtered — should always be encouraged,” said Jill Culora, IBWA’s vice president of communications. “With the prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease in our fast-paced society, bottled water offers a safe, healthy, and convenient beverage option.”
For eight consecutive years, bottled water has been the highest selling beverage by volume, overtaking soda. As Americans strive to reduce sugar intake and opt for healthier food and drink options, bottled water has become increasingly popular. Its portability and convenience have been key factors in its appeal to consumers on the go.
— Christopher Doering
Cannabis beverage makers unite to influence policy
With cannabis beverages restricted to select states, brands are collaborating to sway federal policy.
The Coalition for Adult Beverage Alternatives (CABA) was recently launched with the goal of advocating for safe and legal THC beverages and influencing legislative changes by prioritizing consumer safety through a clear code of conduct for the industry. The coalition has enlisted two Washington, D.C.-based lobbying firms to aid in their efforts.
Founding members of the trade group include THC-infused beverage producers such as Cann, Tilray, Wynk, Pamos, and Vertosa. CABA projects that the cannabis beverage industry could reach $2.8 billion by 2030.
Diana Eberlein, chair of the coalition and vice president of marketing at cannabis ingredients manufacturer Sōrse Technology, emphasized the coalition’s focus on working with Congress to establish sensible regulations that offer adult consumers a variety of safe alternatives.
The coalition highlighted the absence of regulations in the sector, allowing “bad actors” to exploit the category by selling highly potent drinks to minors containing synthetic cannabinoids.
“Our aim is to educate lawmakers on the safety and positive impact of low-dose THC beverages in the lives of adult Americans and to demonstrate the distinction between these products and the risky, highly intoxicating beverages marketed to children by unscrupulous entities,” stated Jake Bullock, CEO of Cann. “Adults should have the option to purchase safe, low-dose THC beverages in the same manner as alcohol, with strict age restrictions of 21+.”
The future of cannabis beverages remains uncertain, but industry insiders are optimistic that the outcome of the upcoming presidential election could pave the way for legalization, including Irwin D. Simon, CEO of Tilray.
— Chris Casey