C4 Cross-Category Sparkling Protein Drink, Minute Maid Spiked Expands into Hard Iced Tea
This edition of Leftovers focuses on three new products: C4 Energy introduces a caffeine-free sparkling protein drink featuring 20 grams of protein and a zero-sugar formula; Minute Maid Spiked extends its lemonade line into hard iced tea with 5% alcohol by volume; Mexican juice brand Jumex ventures into protein shakes for the first time, launching a product with 30 grams of protein.
The Leftovers column focuses on recently emerging product ideas, some of which are curious, some sound amazing, and others are beyond imagination. We cannot cover every proposal we receive, so here are a few "leftover" items selected from our inbox.
C4 Energy launches sparkling protein drink, entering the protein beverage market
C4 Energy has officially entered the protein beverage space with a sparkling protein drink, offering an alternative to traditional protein shakes.
Unlike other C4 products, this protein drink contains no caffeine. Each serving provides 20 grams of protein and is fortified with vitamins to meet growing consumer demand for functional beverages. Additionally, the product is sugar-free, aligning with another major health trend among consumers.
C4 is joining the protein craze to stand out in a crowded market. Several industry insiders believe that sodas and sparkling beverages represent an underdeveloped opportunity in the protein category. For example, Bellring Brands, the maker of Premier Protein, recently launched its own protein soda to counter increasing competition in the core protein shake market.
As the sparkling protein market continues to grow, C4 says its development focus is on creating a taste-first beverage.
"Sparkling and clear protein drinks are often criticized for being bland or leaving a chalky aftertaste, and we know that is not good enough for C4," said Emily Hoyle, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Nutrabolt, C4's parent company, in a statement. "We are applying our top-tier flavor expertise to this new category, giving consumers a protein drink that combines functionality with an enjoyable drinking experience."
C4 Sparkling Protein is sold in 12-can packs with a retail price of $27.99, available in three flavors: Strawberry Watermelon, Lemon Lime Sparkling, and Cherry Vanilla.
Nutrabolt says the new C4 line marks the company's return to its health and wellness roots. In addition to energy drinks, C4 also sells pre-workout supplements, while sister brand Bloom focuses on supplements and functional beverages.
According to ADM data, two-thirds of consumers want to increase their protein intake. The nutrient is also benefiting from the popularity of GLP-1 drugs. Beverages are often seen as a more convenient vehicle for protein consumption, especially for GLP-1 users who may experience digestive discomfort.
— Laurel Deppen
Minute Maid Spiked expands into hard iced tea category
Red Tree Beverages, Coca-Cola's alcoholic beverage subsidiary, is extending its Minute Maid Spiked lemonade line into iced tea, one of the fastest-growing segments in ready-to-drink cocktails.
Minute Maid Spiked vodka lemonade iced tea contains real vodka, 3% lemon juice, and 5% alcohol by volume. The product will hit shelves this summer, available in 8-can packs or 16-ounce single cans.
Minute Maid entered the alcoholic beverage space last year as part of efforts to pushmore Coca-Cola brands into the segment. As lemonade-based cocktails gain traction, Minute Maid hopes to leverage its brand recognition to carve out a place in this growing category.
Red Tree Beverages is continuing that strategy by adding iced tea to its portfolio, which has become another major driver of ready-to-drink cocktail growth.
According toIWSR data, hard iced tea has become one of the fastest-growing subcategories in ready-to-drink cocktails, with U.S. market volume growing 5% in 2025. Between 2021 and 2025, the segment achieved a compound annual growth rate of 22%.
"As the brand continues to expand, launching a vodka lemonade iced tea is a natural next step," said Lou Grill, President of Red Tree Beverages, in a statement.
Red Tree Beverages partnered withSazeraclast year to produce its alcoholic beverages, ending its partnership with Constellation Brands.
— Sarah Zimmerman
Jumex enters protein shake market
Mexican juice company Jumex has officially entered the protein shake market, marking its first foray into lifestyle nutrition.
Jumex Protein Shakes contain 30 grams of protein per bottle and come in three distinctive flavors: Mango, Chocolate Churro, and Vanilla Pudding. The product will be available at Walmart.
Jumex says the launch reflects its strategy to expand beyond its traditional juice and nectar portfolio into new categories, channels, and consumption occasions.
According to the International Food Information Council, the protein category is more popular than ever, with about 70% ofAmericans saying they want to increase protein in their diets, compared to 59% four years ago.
"Jumex Protein Shakes mark a significant milestone in the growth of our company and brand," said Salvi Folch, CEO of Grupo Jumex. "With this launch, we are entering a large and growing category on a national scale, offering consumers a differentiated protein drink that combines functionality, convenience, and authentic Mexican-inspired flavors."
Although Jumex, a 65-year-old Mexican beverage maker, is known for fruit nectars, juices, and other drinks, it is no stranger to smoothies. The company in 2025acquired the license for juice and smoothie brand Odwalla。
— Christopher Doering