Plus, this week’s new products, Taste Radio, Halfday sued, and a new class action ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ ͏‌ 
 
 
BevnetFebruary 20, 2026
DAILY BRIEFING: LITE EDITION
A preview of today's news & insights for the beverage industry.
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You’re reading the Lite Edition, a snapshot of BevNET’s full Daily Briefing for Insider members.

 

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📰 Big Today In Beverage

From BevNET Magazine: Premium Mixers Fear No Recession

From BevNET Magazine: Premium Mixers Fear No Recession
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Brad Avery

Senior Reporter

Consumers may be drinking less than ever, yet the cocktail mixer category is still growing – and adapting – to a 21+ demographic that craves premium, healthier options, even as the economy shows worrying signs of contraction.

Despite an economic environment rocked by tariffs and inflation, consumers are still splurging on higher quality indulgences. The general trend of preferring top shelf spirits and premium mixers to go with these spendy purchases remained strong in 2025 with positive signs ahead for brands playing in this space.

Unlock the full story on BevNET

 

🆕 This Week’s New Products

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⚕️ Erehwon and personalized health service Function launched the “World’s Healthiest Smoothie” – a nutrient-dense meal replacement shake aimed at driving shoppers towards Function memberships (at a discount, of course). Access the full update with Insider

🏄 Hard iced tea brand Surfside launched four new flavors, including Surfside Blueberry Lemonade and Half & Half. Read all about it

🇨🇦 Canadian brewery Formosa Springs is relaunching a line of mineral waters, under the stewardship of new owner Nicholas Reichenbach, the founder of Flow Water. Read the full story with Insider access

KDP hasn’t slowed its plans for innovation in 2026. The company shared a first look at its upcoming slate of releases, covering everything from dirty soda-inspired CSDs to a revamped Snapple to more energy options. Insiders can access the full update

Interested in reading about more new sips?

Check out this week’s new product gallery for more of the latest launches

 

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👉🏼 The News You Need 👈🏼

🎯 Kava Haven Targets Mainstream Drinking Rituals

As functional drink brands look for a foothold in the alcohol alternatives space, one kava company is trying something new. 

Read the full analysis with Insider access

 

🏛️ Halfday Sued Over Gut Health Claims

Halfday Tonics has been hit with a proposed class action lawsuit, taking aim at the functional iced tea brand’s stated “prebiotic benefits.” 

Continue reading the full breakdown with Insider access

 

Headlines Are Just the Beginning

You’re seeing the surface. Insider members get the full story.

BevNET & Nosh Insider is built for the teams who don’t just read the news, they use it. Unlock full access to everything on BevNET.com and Nosh.com, our members-only daily newsletter, and deep-dive data reports on the trends, brands, and moves shaping the future of food and beverage.

If staying ahead is part of your job, this is your silver bullet.

 

📰 Trending Headlines

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

  1. Breakthru Beverage Cuts 500 Jobs Amid Industry Shakeup
  2. Post CosMc’s, McDonald’s Expands Energy Drink Offerings Under McCafé Brand
  3. Throne Sport Coffee Nets $10M Raise, Launches DSD with Big Geyser
  4. Just Ice Tea Raises $9M; Big Geyser, Polar Involved
  5. NIQ: Spirits, Wine Cocktails Buck C-Store Declines
 

🎙️ Taste Radio: How To Make Expo Pay Off

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The real ROI of Expo West starts long before the show floor opens. In this episode, the team breaks down best practices for exhibitors looking to maximize your time and resources at one of the most competitive trade shows in the world.

Tune into the episode here. Also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

 
That's all for today's Daily Briefing: Lite Edition. We'll be back in your inbox on Monday.

Stay in the know across food, beverage, beer and spirits. Explore BevNET’s full lineup of newsletters and never miss the latest news, insights and trends. 
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