Califia Farms, Los Angeles, is announcing two new additions to its best-selling line of Barista Blends: Mushroom Oat Barista Blend and Hemp Barista Blend. The new barista-tested plant milks double as creamers and offer even more variety to the morning coffee ritual while delivering on functional ingredients, the company says.
Citing a survey conducted by OnePoll for Califia Farms in January 2021 with a sample of 2,000 Americans who drink coffee, Califia Farms notes that functional ingredients was named the most important quality in plant-based alternative milks and creamers by one in five coffee drinkers. The survey also revealed that consumers' appetite for coffee experimentation has grown in the past year, with 42 percent of coffee drinkers recreating their favorite coffee drinks at home and one in three trying their hand at creating latte art during the pandemic.
The new Barista Blends, which were developed with professional baristas, steam and foam without sacrificing taste or quality, join Califia's line of Barista Blend beverages, including Oat Barista Blend, Almond Barista Blend and Unsweetened Almond Barista Blend.
"Our research found that one in four coffee drinkers would rather go without coffee if their preferred milk is unavailable. The right plant-based milk is a vital part of the coffee experience," said Suzanne Ginestro, chief marketing officer at Califia Farms, in a statement. "Our new Mushroom Oat and Hemp Barista Blends have the creaminess and consistency that elevate the at-home coffee experience with the added benefits of functional ingredients."
Mushroom Oat Barista Blend has 3,000 mg of whole Cordyceps, 2,400 mg of Lion's Mane mushrooms and has a smooth, earthy and full-bodied flavor, the company says. Meanwhile Hemp Barista Blend has a mild, nutty flavor, contains omega-3 ALA fatty acids and has no added sugar.
"Mushroom Oat and Hemp Barista Blends are nutritious additions to the average cup of coffee with benefits like calcium and healthy fats," said Ashley Koff, registered dietitian and chief executive officer of The Better Nutrition Program. "They also deliver on creamy taste and are allergen-free options that can be enjoyed on their own or in baking and cooking recipes."
Mushroom Oat Barista Blend and Hemp Barista Blend are available at leading national retailers, including Whole Foods, and have a suggested retail price of $5.99 for a 32-ounce carton.