As consumers increasingly seek functional beverages, Vital Proteins, a brand owned by Nestlé, is introducing a sparkling water infused with collagen.
The new Vital Proteins’ Collagen Sparkling Water features the company’s Verisol collagen peptides combined with vitamin C. This refreshing drink is sugar-free and contains no artificial sweeteners, available in enticing flavors like strawberry blossom, lemon lime, and blood orange.
According to SPINS, a data company, skin, hair, and beauty have emerged as key health goals for consumers when selecting supplements, with 33% identifying these areas as their primary focus. Collagen stands out as the second-most common ingredient in food and beverage launches that carry a beauty claim. As noted by Innova, collagen has gained recognition as a “mainstream ingredient,” paralleling popularity levels seen in protein and fiber.
Vital Proteins has built its reputation on powdered collagen, which customers typically combine with various beverages. Cadent data referenced by the brand indicates that over one in three collagen users are eager to experiment with new formats.
This new collagen-infused sparkling water celebrates the rising demand for convenient ways to incorporate vitamins into daily routines. It joins other innovative products in the market, such as recent offerings from Monster Energy and Unwell Beverages.
The product has recently started rolling out to retailers and is expected to expand further by late spring.
“Today’s consumers desire beverages that serve dual purposes—hydrating them while also supporting their wellness objectives,” stated Jill Abbott, Vice President of Marketing Strategy and Innovation at Vital Proteins. “Our new Collagen Sparkling Water was designed to satisfy this trend, offering sparkling water enthusiasts, dedicated collagen users, and newcomers a tasty, convenient method to reap the clinically studied benefits of collagen peptides in their day-to-day lives.”
The launch of Collagen Sparkling Water broadens Vital Proteins’ ready-to-drink line, which the brand ventured into last year with a protein shake that also included collagen.
Vital Proteins is part of Nestlé Health Science, whose offerings also encompass Boost and Nature’s Bounty. Nestlé announced plans to acquire the brand in 2020, and the deal was finalized two years later, in 2022.
