The top New Year’s resolution for 2015 was to stay fit and healthy, with losing weight a close second. Even without the data to prove it, I can assume 2016’s resolutions will echo the health sentiment of years past. At Bernick’s, we’re big on community wellness, and strive to keep our communities and consumers knowledgeable and proponents of healthy choices year-round. In that vein, here is some support on the beverage home front.
Water Remains King
You’ve heard the adage drink eight glasses of water a day a time or thousand. Water will always be the best bet for hydration, and it’s proven that consuming water clears skin, boosts productivity, and fuels muscles. It’s incredible and essential. In 2016, Aquafina along with Propel, PACt, LifeWater, Schweppes, and ONE promoted drinking more water, and their #ResolveToBeHappy campaign will reward consumers with the chance to win hundreds of prizes, while committing to healthy habits. Win-win! Sparkling water is a whole separate entity, and enjoys its own crazy success in the marketplace. If someone vows to give up their beloved diet sodas in the New Year, a healthy swap would be to sparkling water. Same carbonated, cold crack of the can or bottle, no calories, no sugar, no caffeine.
A Little Umbrella in Your Coconut Drink
Coconut water continues to bask in the glory that is a $1 billion industry. In just five years, the coconut water industry has exploded into one of the fastest-growing beverage categories in the world. PepsiCo's O.N.E. is the third largest coconut water brand in the U.S., which has grown over 1,100 percent since it was introduced at Whole Foods a decade ago. Why the popularity? It’s tropical and conjures up images of the beach while delivering powerful electrolytes not naturally found in any other beverage. It’s a low-calorie alternative to juice and grants athletes potassium for weary muscles.
The Protein Game is Strong
The protein drink market is a $15 million category, which is also part of the convenience market. Pre-mixed or bottled protein or performance drinks give people the flexibility to eat healthy on the run. If maintaining an activity level or achieving an athletic feat is something people desire, they’ll spend both the time and money on products that promote both. Muscle Milk Organic is certified as USDA Organic, and has lower fat and carbohydrates than other brands. The body needs protein to rebuild, recover, and grow muscle. Refueling post-workout requires a separate beverage, and those contain necessary electrolytes and carbohydrates to replenish what was lost during the game or performance. Campbell’s V8 line just released their +Energy line of natural energy drinks that contain energy derived from green tea, without artificial color or flavor.
The options to drink healthy beverages are plenty, with strong, well-loved brands continuing to deliver innovative products to a consumer base who continues to advocate for healthy options. Drink up!
