What’s hitting the shelves? Pepsi premium cola, organic Capri Sun and new Pimm’s cider

Pepsi’s new ‘unexpectedly bold’ premium cola​

Pepsi has launched a new premium soda called 1893, an ‘unexpectedly bold cola blend of the past and present’.

The beverage uses kola nut extract, real sugar and sparkling water, and is available in original and ginger cola flavors.

“While the cola can be enjoyed as a delicious standalone beverage, it is also the perfect complement for cocktails,” ​says Pepsi.

The cola is packaged in slim 12 oz. cans for a suggested retail price of $1.79.

Sugar-free energy drinks​

Orkla Health has launched True, a line of sugar-free energy and sports drinks containing protein BCAA. 

There are four flavors: two of which contain natural caffeine from green coffee beans in addition to BCAA.

The flavors are blueberry & acai, strawberry & goji, citrus, and pear & lime. 

The product was conceived in Sweden, and is being launched across the Nordic countries. 

Organic Capri Sun​

Capri Sun has launched its first organic offering, Capri Sun Organic.

The certified USDA organic juice drink has one serving of fruit in every pouch, and is made with 66% fruit juice, no added sugar, and no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Capri Sun Organic also contains 100% daily value of vitamin C for children.

Capri Sun Organic is available in Fruit Punch, Tropical Punch, Apple, and Grape, and can be found nationwide in the US.

Aquafina sparkling water​

PepsiCo bottled water brand Aquafina has added a new Aquafina Sparkling line to its portfolio, which is available nationwide in the US. 

Aquafina comes in three flavors: black cherry dragonfruit, lemon lime and orange grapefruit.

Packaged in slim cans, each 12 oz serve contains 10 calories and is sweetened with Fair Trade certified sugar. 

New nudie water range​

Australian brand nudie has extended its product range with new flavors as well as a new water range called nudie water.

Nudie water is available in orange and lemon, cucumber lemon, and mint & raspberry. Each beverage contains 4-10% juice.

The 450ml bottles are available in the chilled section at Woolworths, IGAs and cafes and corner stores nationwide for $2.49.

Other new launches for the Sydney-based brand are brekkie nudie (mango, pear, coconut yogurt, chia seeds and oats); nothing but 21 oranges – double pulp (using Australian oranges); and veggie nudie (cucumber, celery, kale, lemon and pear).  

Pimm’s prepares for summer​

Diageo brand Pimm’s has introduced three new flavors to its Cider Cup range: summer fruits, mango & passionfruit, and plum & red apple.

The new variants build on the launch of Pimm’s Cider Cup strawberry & cucumber in June last year.

The beverages have been launched this month ready to offer the ‘perfect patriotic tipple’ for the British summer.

“Summer is a key sales moment for cider and as a brand long associated with everything British, Pimm’s Cider Cup is a must stock ahead of moments of national celebration including Wimbledon and The Queen’s Patron’s Lunch,”​ said Claire O’Neill, innovation commercialisation manager at Diageo.

Coca-Cola’s premium water reaches Australia​

Coca-Cola has launched Glaceau smartwater in Australia this month, targeting the 18-34 year old demographic.

The brand, a vapor distilled mineralized water, has already seen success in other markets such as the US and UK.

"With the brand going from strength to strength across the globe, we felt it was time to bring Glaceau smartwater to Australia,” ​said Gloria Young, brand manager.

“It is designed to appeal to on-the-go, style-conscious consumers who are looking for something a little extra from their water. The vapor distillation process is a big point of difference for us. ​

"We have an opportunity to make a big impact in the category with this premium yet functional offering.”​

Protein2o launches tropical coconut​

Protein2o has unveiled a brand revamp and its reformulation to 100% whey protein isolate this month. A fifth flavor, tropical coconut, has also been introduced.

“There’s a lot of excitement from buyers who see protein waters as expanding their category to consumers who are interested in protein; there is a general consensus that the new branding and flavor profiles will be widely accepted by veteran and first time protein consumers alike,” ​said Robert Kral, vice president of marketing and procurement.

The refreshed line is now available at select retailers, and availability will expand over the next two months.

Coopers’ Craft​

Brown-Forman will introduce the company's first new bourbon brand in 20 years with the release of Coopers' Craft this summer.

The bourbon will initially be available in select US markets: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina and Tennessee.

Coopers' Craft will have a suggested retail price of $28.99 for a 750ml bottle. 

Packing a protein punch​

Optimum Nutrition has launched a new protein water: a ready-to-drink, whey protein isolate infused water with 20g protein in a 16 fl. oz. serve.

Optimum Nutrition Protein Water contains less than two grams of carbs, zero fat and sugar, and is low in sodium. The drink is available in three flavors –Icy Blue Raspberry, Orange Freeze, and Tropical Fruit Punch. “The drink is appropriate for consumption pre, during or post-workout for hydration and support of muscle growth and recovery,” ​says the brand.

The beverage is available across the US. 

From scientists to shelves​

Probiotic water PERKii​​ is launching in Australia, using patented technology developed by scientists at The University of Queensland that claims to ensure the delivery of live probiotics to the digestive system. 

PERKii uses microgels – tiny natural beads designed to encapsulate live probiotics and ensure survival through the acidic stomach environment to the lower digestive system.

The flavors are coconut & lime, raspberry & pomegranate, and green tea & elderflower.

The drink has 26 calories per serve, and one and a half teaspoons of sugar from apples.

It is lactose-free and packaged in a 300ml bottle.