New energy thirst-quenchers burst gassy drinks' bubble

The Hotelympia show in London last month saw the unveiling of a new way to enjoy water in the form of O2go. When added to water, these powder supplements create a flavoured drink fuelled with vitamins. Why pay for unnecessarily expensive bottled water when O2go sachets are available at 18p each, asks north Yorkshire-based Santeau, which has launched the product.

"I do a lot of sport," says O2go creator Jonathan Yates. "So the product was initially for my own benefit." Consumer research revealed that people wanted a natural looking clear drink, so Yates had to search for colour-free vitamins.

"Ingredients such as COQ10 are popular in health products, because consumers are aware that they are good energy providers. However, COQ10's yellow colour meant it would be impossible to use in O2Go because it would resemble bottled urine!"

Instead, Yates settled for: Vitamin B1 (thiamin), which aids the release of energy from food and helps keep nerves and muscle tissue healthy; Vitamin B3 (niacin), which promotes the production of hormones and helps maintain healthy skin; Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) which boosts the immune system; Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), which helps in the formation of bloodcells; Maltodectrin, which provides energy; and Splenda Sucralose, the high intensity, no calorie sweetener, which is suitable for diabetics.

The product is available in Cranberry, Green Tea, Peach, Strawberry and Citrus flavours.

Yates is also developing an isotonic powder, O2go Sport Plus, that transforms water into a non-carbonated sports drink.

In a separate development, Different Drinks has launched Kixin, a high-energy drink without the fizz. The drink is sourced from Thailand and Different Drinks hopes that it will make an impact on the fast-growing UK stimulant and energy drinks market.

Consumers have reported that Kixin is easier to swallow than carbonated drinks, claims Different Drinks. It comes packaged in a glass bottle to convey the image of a premium quality drink which is healthier for you, adds the company.

"For the convenience of a single serve energy boost, consumers are prepared to pay a premium," says director of sales Tony Miner.

Kixin retails at £1.29 and is available in 150ml bottles.