Beyond Meat's protein soda might be its last chance and best hope

"Beyond Meat just launched a new product that's even further from meat than ever before: a protein soda. Beyond Immerse is the company's first product that makes no attempt to replicate meat whatsoever, marking a sharp shift in Beyond's business model. It might seem like it comes out of left field, but it all clicks into place once you know just how badly the veggie burger business is working out for Beyond."

"Immerse is an oddity in and of itself. Unlike most protein drinks, which are usually chalky at best, it claims to be "crisp and refreshing" and comes in three fruity flavors: Peach Mango, Lemon Lime, and Orange Tangerine. Each flavor then comes in two versions, with either 10g or 20g of protein, at either 60 or 100 calories per 12oz can, with 7g of fiber either way."

"As you'd expect from Beyond, Immerse is entirely plant-based. The protein comes from peas and the fiber from tapioca, with stevia, "natural flavors," and a few juice concentrates and food colorings to round out the ingredient list. Beyond makes sure this ticks off a few more of the health food boxes, promising plenty of antioxidants and electrolytes too. Immerse's macronutrients are almost suspiciously impressive."

Beyond Meat introduced Beyond Immerse, a plant-based protein soda that departs from meat-replication and signals a business-model shift. The beverage is marketed as "crisp and refreshing" and is available in Peach Mango, Lemon Lime, and Orange Tangerine. Each flavor comes in 10g or 20g protein versions, with 60 or 100 calories per 12oz can and 7g of fiber. Protein derives from peas and fiber from tapioca, with stevia, "natural flavors," juice concentrates, and colorings included. The product promises antioxidants and electrolytes and reflects a pivot as the veggie burger business struggles and the company remains unprofitable.

Read at The Verge