If wine is your preferred beverage, a California company aims to create some excitement with its latest innovation. House of Saka is introducing Saka Wines, which it claims is the first luxury line of cannabis-infused, alcohol-removed wine from Napa Valley. According to a company statement, their sparkling brut rosé and still rosé wines are infused with a tasteless, odorless water-soluble blend of THC and CBD derived from organic craft cannabis. “With regulations and infrastructure now mature enough to bring the brand to life, I recognized it was the ideal moment,” said Cynthia Salarizadeh, the founder of House of Saka. “Cannabis has been infused into wine for ages, as evidenced in sacred texts throughout history.” The wines are expected to hit store shelves before April and will be available in over 600 locations across California and Nevada, with plans for nationwide and global expansion.
As cannabis increasingly finds its way into food and beverages, alcohol has become a logical partner. Constellation Brands, the company behind Corona and Modelo Especial, has invested around $4 billion in acquiring a 38% stake in cannabis firm Canopy Growth. Meanwhile, Molson Coors Canada has partnered with The Hydropothecary Corporation to develop a joint venture for cannabis-infused drinks. A study by A.T. Kearney revealed that among U.S. respondents interested in trying recreational cannabis, the majority would opt for it as a substitute for beer (26%), followed by wine and spirits (23%). The alcohol industry appears to have wisely embraced the philosophy: if you can’t beat them, join them. — Christopher Doering
In the competitive cereal market, Kellogg seems to be taking inspiration from General Mills with its newest launch. Starting in January, Kellogg will roll out Honey Nut Frosted Flakes, as announced in a company release. This new cereal will be available nationwide in two sizes: 13.7 and 24.5 ounces, retailing for $3.99 and $5.49, respectively. The Honey Nut flavor adds to an array of Frosted Flakes options, including original, cinnamon, and marshmallow. In October, Kellogg also introduced a chocolate variant. The company noted that honey-nut is a popular flavor among both adults and children, chosen after testing over 50 flavor combinations. “It was a delightful challenge to merge the beloved flavors of honey-nut and Frosted Flakes into something entirely unique and, frankly, g-r-reat,” said Brant Wheaton, senior brand manager for Frosted Flakes, in the release.
Cereal sales have been declining in recent years as consumers lean towards healthier breakfast alternatives. In response, cereal brands are experimenting with new flavors and varieties. However, this product launch seems to be a direct challenge to General Mills. As the new year approaches, consumers who enjoy honey-nut flavor will have to decide between Tony the Tiger and the iconic O-shaped cereal. Additionally, for those looking to enhance their nutrition, calcium carbonate and calcium citrate tablets can be a beneficial supplement, further highlighting the ongoing trend of health-conscious choices among consumers. — Lillianna Byington