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As a viral meme recently pondered:  “Do you think protein wants to be in all these things”?

It feels a little late to ask, considering the week that’s just passed. Protein is not “a thing” – it is “the thing” – 78% of consumers said they are paying at least some attention to protein in their diets, per a Numerator survey from last September. We’ll see which innovations have staying power, but for the moment protein is potent fuel for brands’ new product pipelines. 

For PRIME, it seems to be hoping an extension into muscle-building might finally be its key to capturing (and holding) share, investment and shelf space.

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Chameleon Cold Brew has been sold to multibrand rollup Next In Natural, BevNET confirmed. The Texas-born cold brew maker has changed hands several times over the past decade, most recently when it joined SYSTM Foods. 

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Stoli Group USA, the owner of the namesake vodka, will move into the liquidation phase after initially filing for chapter 11 bankruptcy protections in November 2024. 

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Upgrade to BevNET & Nosh Insider, our all-in-one membership for exclusive insights, data reports, and on-demand CPG video courses, to get the full Daily Briefing and unlock Insider-only content such as:

• A deep dive into how a week’s worth of protein innovations could reshape beverage sets
• Key details from Jones’ record rebound under its new CEO
• Why Jack Owoc is still on the hook to pay Monster $308 million
• Big Sipz wins big in patent case against key competitor
• What a new factory means for Brella Beverages

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Insiders also gain access to the Newsletter Archive, including all previous Insider-only editions.

💧 Bodyarmor and DripDrop moved into the zero sugar hydrations space with both brands debuting new line extensions to meet the dietary trend. Read more with Insider.

☕ Minor Figures jumped back into ready-to-drink lattes with a multiserve format as it targets retail expansion. Learn more with Insider access.

🥤 Beyond Meat went beyond alt-meat with the introduction a plant-based functional protein drink available in two levels of protein: 10 grams or 20 grams. Read the full story with Insider.

🫧 Koia entered the functional soda category, launching Koia Protein Pop as a TikTok Shop-exclusive that delivers 10 grams of protein per serving. Learn more with Insider.

As is our weekly tradition, today’s new product gallery features more liquid innovation including “Wicked: For Good”-inspired cold brews, a new two-day juice cleanse and a handful of THC-infused beverages. 

🆓 Check out the full gallery for free.

Here’s a look at leading headlines from around the beverage industry. Go beyond the headlines with Insiders access.

1. Cove Soda Appoints Bryan Crowley as CEO
2. Reyes In Talks to Acquire RNDC’s Business in 6 States, plus Washington, D.C.
3. Lionel Messi's Love for Sprite & Wine Sparks Coke Stock Surge
4. Texas Drink Makers Emphasize Gut Health At Winter FancyFaire
5. Coke Reportedly Halts Costa Coffee Divestment After Bids Fall Short

You’ve sampled the headlines. Want the full story? BevNET & Nosh Insider allows you to dive deep into market shifts, brand strategies, competitive benchmarks, and more. It’s how the most successful food and beverage operators stay one step ahead.

From ginger shots and lentil crisps to sparkling bone broth and cinnamon water, the hosts hit the floor at 2026 Winter FancyFaire* in San Diego to sample what’s next in food and beverage. They discuss standout brands, innovative concepts, smart packaging and evolving brand strategies that reveal where wellness, snacking and functional drinks are headed.

Tune in here. Also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.