Near-water drinks, also known as flavored water or enhanced water, are beverages that have a water base but are flavored with natural or artificial flavors, and may also contain added vitamins, minerals, and/or sweeteners. These drinks are marketed as an alternative to plain water and are often low in calories or sugar-free.
Some examples of near-water drinks include flavored sparkling water, infused water, vitamin-enhanced water, and electrolyte-enhanced water. They are typically sold in bottles or cans and are commonly found in grocery stores, convenience stores, and vending machines.
It's important to note that while near-water drinks can be a good option for staying hydrated, it's still recommended to drink plain water as the primary source of hydration for optimal health.
The market scope for near-water drinks is quite significant and continues to grow. With an increasing focus on health and wellness, consumers are looking for alternatives to sugary and calorie-dense beverages, and near-water drinks offer a convenient and refreshing option.
According to a report by Grand View Research, the global enhanced water market size was valued at USD 8.26 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.0% from 2021 to 2028. This growth is attributed to several factors, including increasing health consciousness, rising demand for low-calorie and sugar-free beverages, and the availability of innovative flavor options.
In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has also influenced the market scope for near-water drinks, as people are more health-conscious and are opting for healthier beverage choices. This has led to an increase in demand for ready-to-drink beverages, including near-water drinks.
The market scope for near-water drinks appears to be promising, with increasing demand from health-conscious consumers, innovative product offerings, and expanding distribution channels.
There are several major players in the market for near-water drinks, including:
a) Coca-Cola Company
b) PepsiCo
c) Nestle Waters
d) Danone
e) The Kraft Heinz Company
f) Keurig Dr Pepper
The Coca-Cola Company's Powerade Zero Drops, PepsiCo's SoBe Lifewater, and Nestle's Arrowhead's Flavored Waters are among other well-known near-water drink brands.
The commercial production of near-water drinks typically involves several steps, including:
a) Water Treatment: The water used in near-water drinks must be treated to remove any impurities, such as minerals or microorganisms, that can affect the taste or quality of the final product. This can involve various treatments, such as filtration, reverse osmosis, and ultraviolet sterilization.
b) Flavoring: The water is then flavored with natural or artificial flavors to create the desired taste profile. Some manufacturers also add vitamins, minerals, and/or sweeteners, depending on the specific product and target market.
c) Carbonation: If a near-water drink is intended to be carbonated, the water is infused with carbon dioxide gas under pressure to create the desired level of fizziness.
d) Packaging: Once the near-water drink is produced, it is then packaged in bottles, cans, or other containers for distribution and sale. Packaging materials must be carefully.