PepsiCo is launching Soulboost, an enhanced sparkling water beverage made with real juice and functional ingredients, the CPG giant said in a statement.

The beverage comes in two varieties: Blueberry Pomegranate and Black Cherry Citrus with 200 milligrams of panax ginseng to help support mental stamina; and Blackberry Passionfruit and Strawberry Rose with 200 milligrams of L-theanine to aid in relaxation. Soulboost will first be sold on Amazon and then roll out to retailers in the coming months.

As consumption of soda and other sugary drinks has declined, beverage manufacturers such as PepsiCo and Coca-Cola have expanded into other beverages like tea, sports drinks and carbonated water. 

By entering the functional space with Soulboost and Driftwell, PepsiCo is crafting a portfolio that not only includes indulgent offerings like Pepsi or Mtn Dew, but also drinks that cater to the different need states of the consumer. An individual could turn to a Muscle Milk for protein after exercising, its carbonated SodaStream platform to rehydrate, and a soda to indulge. Then when people are looking to unwind and reduce their stress level, Soulboost and Driftwell could be an option.

By having a more diverse beverage portfolio, PepsiCo offers more reasons to choose one of its products. As consumers gravitate toward functional offerings, the company will undoubtedly be launching more items in this fast-growing segment.

Source: https://www.fooddive.com/news/pepsico-launches-functional-sparkling-water-drink-soulboost/599509/