Prepared Foods takes a look at new better-for-you foods, drinks and supplements introduced in January 2020.

Isagenix International, Gilbert, Ariz., says it created BĒA—a ready-to-drink beverage whose name stands for “botanical energy plus adaptogens”—to both energize and nourish the body.

“After analyzing the energy drink market, we identified a strong need for a healthier caffeinated beverage, and BĒA delivers,” says Joshua Plant, PhD, Isagenix chief science officer and chairman of the company’s scientific advisory board. “Consumers can now boost their energy levels more naturally with ingredients that are a step up from what you typically find in this drink category. This is tremendously important given so many people are paying close attention to what they put into their bodies.”

Available in a Berry Bellini flavor, BĒA has 125mg of naturally sourced caffeine from green tea and is made with raw nutrients and vitamins sourced from fruits and vegetables including beets, spinach, broccoli, carrots, sweet potatoes, oranges, apples, strawberries, and maitake and shiitake mushrooms. It also features botanical antioxidants as well as adaptogens, such as ashwagandha, that can help fight stress.

“Another factor that sets BĒA apart is it has 10 calories, less than 1g of sugar, and no artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners,” Plant adds. “Consumers can enjoy this drink without feeling bad about what’s in it.”

Although customers can purchase BĒA directly from Isagenix, the company recommends ordering through independent distributors. Preferred customer pricing is $39.99 for a 12-pack, and 5% of all profits help the ISA Foundation—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization operated by Isagenix—provide healthy nutrition and support to underserved children, wellness education for all, and aid for those affected by natural disasters.

Way2B LLC, Minneapolis, describes its line of new Way2B Way Better Water Drinks as functional, plant-based water beverages. 

Co-Founder and CEO Simona Huskova says Way Better Water Drink is powered by premium plant sterols, through a proprietary, industry-first water-soluble solution, which is tasteless and odorless. Each bottle of Way Better Water Drink contains one of the two recommended doses of sterol, providing a convenient way for consumers to increase their sterol consumption.

Huskova says plant sterols are clinically proven to provide numerous health benefits, such as lowering cholesterol levels, supporting cardiac health, prostate health, liver function and collagen maintenance.

“We’re creating a new, universal standard and a better Way2B for people everywhere,” says Huskova, “Way2B intends to transform the global health and wellness marketplace, making a difference with healthy, functional consumer products.”

Way2B Way Better Water Drink comes in four all-natural flavors: Lemon, Orange, Berry, and Plain. The product is available in single-serve, 12-fluid-oz bottles in the grocery store refrigerated section for $3.49- $3.99 and at Amazon.com in six-packs for $22.79. It is available in individual-serving bottles at Lunds & Byerlys and Cub Foods stores throughout the Twin Cities metro, and at Amazon.com through their Launch Pad program.

OATH Global Holdings, New York, says its new OATH Organic Oat-Milk with Plant Protein is the first market offering with 15-16g of protein and 6-10g of fiber. The product is available in four flavors: Double Chocolate, Matcha Chai, Indian Rose, and Golden Turmeric.

“Andy (Khiani), my co-founder, and I share a passion for food that is so delicious, it feels like a cheat treat, yet is super healthy, it adds to your wellbeing,” says Founder Royce Pinkwater. “Together, after almost two years of tasting and testing, we created this in a grab-and-go format that works for anyone, anywhere, at any time.”

Pinkwater says the organic oat milks harness the power of “plants with a promise” to deliver functional health benefits. She says OATH uses atypical proteins like almonds, pumpkin seeds, and oats. Additional ingredients include natural apple fiber (for sweetening), spices and botanicals including saffron, ginger, and cardamom.

Officials note, meanwhile, that all OATH drinks are organic, vegan, kosher and ethically sourced with no gums, dairy, soy, gluten, processed sugars or GMO’s.

The 12oz drinks are available at select stores throughout the New York City metro region. To celebrate the launch, OATH is partnering with LA-based optimistic lifestyle label, Madhappy, as the brand’s exclusive beverage partner at their pop-up location in SoHo, New York through January 2020. Officials say both brands “are rooted in promoting a healthy mindstate while creating premium products and experiences with overall wellbeing in mind.”