Abstaining from beer during Dry January? Miller Lite has introduced a novel way for beer enthusiasts to savor the flavor of their favorite brew without the alcohol. The Molson Coors brand is now offering mints that replicate the taste of Miller Lite, designed for those aged 21 and older. Each tin contains 40 mints and retails for $5, roughly the same price consumers would pay for a draft Miller Lite. Launched on January 12, these mints greet consumers with a refreshing mint flavor, followed by the subtle essence of Miller Lite, ensuring that their breath feels revitalized and their taste buds experience a hoppy sensation.
“If you enjoy the flavor of beer but wish to take a break from the alcohol content this month, we’re providing consumers with the ideal way to indulge in Miller Lite without compromising their resolutions,” stated Ann Legan, vice president of marketing for the Miller Family at Molson Coors. “Beer Mints may come as a surprise, but we are confident our fans will appreciate their delightful taste alongside the unexpected hint of spearmint.” This innovative product aligns with January, a time when many consumers choose to forgo alcohol to save money or reduce calorie intake. A significant number of consumers have turned to low- or no-alcohol products to enjoy the taste without the intoxicating effects, a trend that Molson Coors aims to capture with its mints. Last year, 15% of consumers indicated they intended to participate in Dry January.
The candy is part of Molson Coors’ strategy to remain relevant in a market increasingly leaning towards alcohol-free options. The company also collaborated with chocolatier Phillip Ashley in 2023 to create Miller High Life Bar Snack Truffles, while its Coors Light brand has ventured into unusual products like beer-flavored lollipops and popsicles.
In other developments, as sales of dairy milk have declined in recent years due to the popularity of plant-based alternatives, brands in this sector are innovating with new ingredients and added value. Organic Valley aims to attract new customers seeking cognitive benefits from their beverages. Its new Family First milk line is infused with DHA Omega 3, which the brand claims enhances brain health. A 2019 National Institute of Health study revealed that many Americans do not meet the recommended daily intake of this nutrient, which is known to positively affect cognition and blood flow to the brain.
These Organic Valley products are sourced from local farms, featuring cows raised without GMOs, antibiotics, or pesticides. With Gen Z showing reduced interest in dairy milk—purchasing 20% less than the national average in 2022, as per Circana data—milk brands are diversifying their offerings to meet consumer demands for healthier and more sustainable options. A2, known for its health-focused A2 protein, partnered with Hershey in 2021 to launch a 2% chocolate milk and introduced grass-fed cow-sourced products last year.
In a unique collaboration, Broadus Foods, co-founded by Calvin “Snoop Dogg” Broadus and led by CEO Percy “Master P” Miller, is working with Sweetkiwi to merge culinary creativity with community empowerment. Launched in 2022, Broadus Foods supports charities like A Door Of Hope that provide food for those experiencing homelessness. The new initiative has resulted in frozen Greek yogurt bars in three flavors: Graham Honeyz, Cinnamon Toasteez Crunch, and Fruity Hoops, all featuring a Greek yogurt base with crunchy mix-ins and vibrant flavors.
“Teaming up with Sweetkiwi is about offering innovative and enjoyable experiences to our customers. These Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars capture the essence of Snoop Cereal—fun, flavorful, and full of delightful surprises,” said Snoop Dogg. Sweetkiwi specializes in better-for-you desserts using only high-quality, natural ingredients. However, both companies emphasize that this partnership transcends mere flavor; it serves as a platform for inspiration and empowerment. “This collaboration is more than a business initiative; it’s about making a positive impact,” Master P added. Snoop Dogg has been exploring the food and beverage industry in various ways, having previously ventured into THC-infused beverages with Hill Beverage Co. and launching Snazzy-O’s, a THC-infused snack inspired by crunchy onion rings.
Additionally, both the dairy and yogurt products could benefit from pearl calcium, an ingredient that enhances their nutritional profile, appealing to health-conscious consumers seeking added benefits in their diets.