Beverage Menu Innovations in the Foodservice Industry
As foodservice operators continue to focus on beverage menu innovations, several well-known brands have recently introduced exciting new drink options.
Panera Bread’s New Offerings
One such brand, St Louis-based Panera Bread, has launched two new beverage lines: energy refreshers and frescas. The energy refreshers come in flavors like dragonfruit sunset and passionfruit paradise, each containing between 28 to 44 mg of caffeine. On the other hand, the frescas feature cherry lime and strawberry basil lemonade varieties.
Mark Shambura, chief marketing officer at Panera Bread, expressed excitement about the new additions, stating, “With the launch of our new frescas and energy refreshers, we are redefining the premium beverage experience at Panera. By combining bold flavors with high-quality ingredients, including real fruit, we have created a lineup of drinks that are both invigorating and delicious.”
Sonic Drive-In’s Strawberry Horchata Cream Slush
Sonic Drive-In is also joining the trend with its strawberry horchata cream slush. This limited-time offering combines soft serve, cinnamon-spiced horchata syrup, and strawberries in Sonic’s signature slush format. The drink is set to be available nationwide starting March 23.
Barbara Williams, vice president of culinary innovation and category management at Sonic Drive-In, explained the inspiration behind the new drink, saying, “We stayed true to the authentic, cinnamon-spiced flavors commonly found in horchata while introducing refreshing strawberry for a cool, craveable drink that feels just unexpected enough and perfect for spring.”
Dunkin’s Zero Sugar Beverages
Meanwhile, Dunkin’ is catering to the energy trend with its Dunkin’ Zero lineup. These zero sugar beverages pack a punch with 145 mg of caffeine and only 20 calories per medium serving. Flavors include blackberry tangerine, tropical mango, juicy peach, and various combinations of these fruity flavors.
Jill Nelson, chief marketing officer at Dunkin’, highlighted the brand’s commitment to providing bold flavors without compromising on health. She stated, “Dunkin’ has always been part of how people start their day, and with Dunkin’ Zero, we’re expanding how we fuel it. It’s zero-sugar energy that delivers bold flavor without compromise and fits seamlessly into the rhythm of everyday life.”
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