The beverages come in three flavours: Mango and Papaya; Pineapple and Lime and Superfruits and contain just 50-63 calories per 250ml glass, said the fruit and vegetable products manufacturer.
As a direct comparison, Del Monte, which also makes prepared foods, said its standard Mango & Papaya drink contains 145kcal per 250ml serving.
The company said the range’s high fruit, vitamin and hydration benefits were targeted primarily at health and weight-conscious women, with children as an additional target group.
Health concerns
“We have listened closely to consumers’ health concerns and know that there is a real demand for healthy, natural drinks with lower sugar and calories,” said Tony Gill, Del Monte UK commercial director. “Del Monte Naturally Light fits the bill perfectly, with a high juice and vitamin content but just half the sugar and calories of standard juice and juice drinks.”
The beverages, which have been produced in partnership with the Gerber Juice Company, will initially be stocked on the ambient juice shelves in Tesco stores and selected Sainsbury’s supermarkets from mid-August. Further additions to the range are planned next year, including new flavours and the launch of convenience-sized 250ml bottles, said Del Monte.
The drinks also underline their vitamin and mineral content. They contain 100% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamin C and 50% of the RDA of vitamins B, E and selenium.