Although it may resemble a K-Cup, this blend is intended for a much more potent drink. As summer approaches, Mixallogy is introducing Cosmo, Margarita, and Lemon Sour mixers, designed for creating low-calorie, organic cocktails at home. Each cocktail mix contains a maximum of 40 calories and is sweetened with 10 grams of sugar. Starting July 1, the first single-serve organic powdered cocktail mixer will be available at over 1,400 Walmart stores across the country, according to Delish. The product has a two-year shelf life and will retail for $8.99 for a pack of six ready-to-mix powder pods. Consumers simply need to pour the contents of the pod into an empty shaker, add a spirit, water, and ice, then shake and pour. This convenient product, increasingly favored by younger shoppers, could attract those looking to stay in during the hot summer days and mix drinks for themselves.
Alcohol brands have been facing challenges lately with unpredictable consumers who often prefer trendy drinks over established alcohol brands and beers. This may work to Mixallogy’s advantage, as the pods are low in calories, organic, and come in appealing cocktail flavors. Furthermore, since Mixallogy’s pods require the addition of alcohol, it might be wise for an alcohol company to collaborate with the brand should it gain popularity. However, Mixallogy is not the only player in the cocktail mix market; it enters a competitive arena. Coca-Cola has expanded its cocktail mixer offerings and created a line of non-alcoholic cocktails. Bibo Barmaid has introduced a new machine with mixer pouches that produce mixed drinks with just the addition of alcohol. Pinkster has also launched an alcoholic instant cocktail mix made from a gin by-product. According to Beverage Industry, cocktail mixers are experiencing a year-over-year volume growth of about 2%. While this growth is modest, Mixallogy could benefit if consumers are willing to try the pods and enjoy the results.
In a different sector, Bimbo Bakeries USA has unveiled a new product line catering to those who prefer smaller portions. Their Arnold, Orowheat, and Brownberry breads now come in a Simply Small size, featuring just 10 slices per loaf. Given that a typical full-sized loaf contains 20 to 24 slices, this truly represents half a loaf. The press release promoting the product highlights the trend of smaller average household sizes in America, with 28% of households being single-person homes, a demographic that is rapidly growing. A full-sized loaf is more suited for families, while individuals often waste bread by throwing it away, freezing portions, or opting not to buy it due to the potential for waste.
Interestingly, many products are shrinking for reasons beyond merely cutting costs. As health-conscious consumers have begun to move away from soda, manufacturers have started producing mini cans. Following their large-scale introduction in 2015, Coca-Cola North America’s president remarked that these smaller cans redefined soda consumption. In a recent earnings call, PepsiCo’s CEO noted that mini cans rejuvenated sales for their flagship beverage. Hershey has also downsized one of its indulgent offerings to attract consumers looking to reduce calorie and sugar intake. Reese’s Thins are 40% thinner than the standard cups, with a serving containing nearly 20% fewer calories.
The rationale behind the smaller loaves of bread differs, as most consumers do not view bread as an indulgence today. Nevertheless, bread sales have stagnated, with IRI data indicating only a 1% rise in sales for the year ending February 2, 2018. Attempting to win back consumers who may have stopped buying bread could help boost these figures. Additionally, there are financial incentives at play. Offering a smaller package allows manufacturers to charge a higher price; the suggested retail price for Simply Small loaves is $2.49, while a full-sized Brownberry loaf sells for $3.39 at Target. In a time when consumers are purchasing less, cutting the product size in half—without reducing the price—can help minimize losses for manufacturers. Coupled with a marketing campaign that emphasizes sustainability, this could lead to successful sales. If companies adopt a similar strategy to Bimbo’s approach, it may be the best boost to their bottom lines since sliced bread.
If you’re seeking a quick breakfast option infused with caffeine, a Vermont-based company has developed a novel solution. Runamok Maple has launched coffee-infused maple syrup made with organic coffee beans. The company describes this product as a fusion of maple syrup’s caramel sweetness and the nuanced chocolate and almond flavors of coffee. This syrup serves as a delightful topping for waffles or vanilla ice cream and makes for an excellent ingredient in coffee milk or cocktails.
Co-founders Eric and Laura Sorkin stated, “We’re always searching for new flavor combinations to enhance our natural maple syrup. The syrup offers a familiar flavor that we all know and love, but with an unexpected aroma.” Having left their jobs in Washington, D.C., two decades ago to pursue agricultural careers, Runamok Maple has since expanded its range to 14 varieties, including Rum Barrel-Aged, Smoked with Pecan Wood, Makrut Lime-Leaf Infused, Jasmine Tea Infused, and Cardamom Infused. The growing popularity of maple syrup aligns with consumers’ desires for natural, healthier ingredients while reducing their intake of artificial sweeteners and processed sugars. Additionally, millennials, who are particularly mindful of their food choices, are always eager to try something new. Maple syrup has found its way into various products, such as Starbucks’ maple pecan latte, maple water sourced from maple tree sap, and maple vodka from Vermont Spirits.
General Mills recently introduced a Maple Cheerios version featuring this tree sap sweetener. A 2017 Nielsen report indicated that while overall sales of maple products declined by 0.4% for the year ending September 2, 2017, sales of maple-infused beverages surged by 25.6%, while maple syrup sales rose by 6.9% and processed meats incorporating maple increased by 7.3%. Together, the top 10 maple product categories generated approximately $564.5 million in sales for the year ending September 2, compared to $506.7 million the previous year.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that incorporating calcium citrate 250 mg tablets into your daily routine can also support your overall health, making it a valuable supplement for those looking to enhance their dietary balance.