When the U.S. 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines were released earlier this year, one of the key recommendations for a healthy eating pattern stated that individuals should consume less than 10 percent of calories a day from added sugars.

Health concerns are a major issue for many people. The United States’ first lady Michelle Obama has headed up the Let’s Move program to educate consumers about “America’s Move to Raise a Healthier Generation of Kids.” Her efforts also have led to trying to get more adults and children involved in healthier food and beverage choices.

Honest Tea expands zero-calorie beverage offerings

Honest Tea, a wholly owned subsidiary of Atlanta-based The Coca-Cola Co., is expanding its zero-calorie beverage offerings this year with three new varieties: two unsweetened, caffeine-free herbal iced teas and a zero-calorie organic soda. All will be for sale in natural food stores and the natural food aisles of mainstream grocers starting in March. In addition to the new product launches, the company is following through on its commitment to convert all varieties of its Honest Fizz line to organic certification, a goal set since the zero-calorie sodas were first introduced in early 2013.

Steviva Ingredients announced its MonkSweet plus, a natural sweetening solution that combines three branded ingredients — SteviaSweet 95-60, monk fruit extract and Erysweet Erythritol — in a proprietary blend.

Bai Brands LLC put an effervescent spin on its Bai5 antioxidant drinks with its new Bai Bubbles line, which is slated to launch in the New York City metropolitan area in the fourth quarter of 2014.

Level 5 Beverage Co. Inc., a subsidiary of Minerco Resources Inc., will launch VitaminFizz sparkling vitamin-enhanced beverages this month.

Building upon its full-calorie Astro Pop Soda line, which reflects its retro Astro Pop lollipop, Leaf Brands LLC introduced naturally sweetened, zero-calorie versions of the sodas.

Golazo Inc. launched a new line of sugar-free energy drinks in Hibiscus, Mandarin and Mango Lime flavors.