RETHINK Brands, Columbia, Md., is launching RETHINK Juice Splash. With only 1 gram of natural sugar and no artificial sweeteners, RETHINK Juice Splash is positioned to be the new benchmark of health in the kid’s aseptic juice category, the company says. RETHINK Juice Splash launches nationwide with two flavors — Watermelon and Fruit Punch — and two more — Kiwi Strawberry and Strawberry Lemonade — coming in the second quarter.

The on-trend sweetener is 70 percent as sweet as sugar and helps manufacturers reduce sucrose in their recipes and develop reduced-calorie food and beverages to meet growing consumer demand, the companies say.

Although a staple within the North American beverage market, the juice and juice drinks category has been challenged as other beverage categories have emerged as go-to options for consumers in terms of hydration and refreshment.

Although many consumers might be looking to live healthier lifestyles, they’re still looking for products that satisfy their sweet tooth. Looking for the best of both worlds, consumers are demanding great-tasting sweetened products that do not contain sugar.

Greek Philosopher Heraclitus once said, “Big results require big ambitions.” For Purchase, N.Y.-based PepsiCo Inc., that statement rings true as the global food and beverage manufacturer has embarked on a goal to develop better products for consumers and the planet.

Once a niche trend, health and wellness has gone mainstream as many market research firms have highlighted in reports. As better-for-you options abound throughout the consumer packaged goods market, beverage formulators are turning to stabilizing ingredient sources to maintain product efficacy.

ADM/Matsutani, the joint venture between Archer Daniels Midland Co., Matsutani Chemical Industry Co. Ltd. and Matsutani America Inc., highlights the capabilities of its Fibersol soluble dietary fiber ingredient to help beverage-makers meet the pending regulatory changes regarding added sugars and consumers’ nutritional demands.

Lawrenceville, N.J.-based iTi Tropicals Inc. released a new infographic with information on how coconut water can be used to reduce the sugar content in 100 percent juice products while maintaining a 100 percent juice claim. 

With summer finally here, I have adopted a “no excuses” mantra in my quest to shed some weight and get healthy. I’ve been munching carrots instead of chips, drinking more water and resuming my regular walking routine. And when my son uses the “D” word, as in “diet,” I tell him it’s not about diet and deprivation but, rather, it’s about adopting a healthier overall lifestyle.

Obesity rates have more than doubled in adults and children since the 1970s, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Approximately 78.6 million adults are overweight or obese, with 12.7 million children and adolescents in the same category.