With summer approaching, a battle for the beverage market among food corporations has begun. The niche strategy product selected by the food and franchise industry this year is "tomato basil beverage." The related industry views this as a reflection of the "slow aging" trend. Slow aging aims to not only extend lifespan but also to slow down the aging process, maintain good health, and delay the onset of diseases.
According to the distribution industry on 26th, beverages using tomato and basil are gradually appearing in the market. Woongjin has launched "The Victoria Tomato Basil Soda." It is zero-calorie but has a sweet taste added. The company explains that it features a non-stimulating sweetness.
Sales performance is also quite good. After its launch in April, it sold a cumulative total of 700,000 bottles in just two months. In terms of sales amount, it is at the level of 600 million won. In the beverage industry, new products typically produce between 150,000 and 200,000 bottles. Selling 700,000 bottles in just two months is regarded as a successful new product. A representative from Woongjin noted, "This is a limited edition product released to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the sparkling water brand 'The Victoria' and noted that it is frequently sold out and restocked on Naver Mall."
Coffee shops are also rushing to introduce beverages containing tomato and basil. The coffee franchise Ediya launched "Tomato Basil Ade" as a limited-time product for June. It has included "tomato basil ade" along with previously released fresh watermelon juice and tomato juice. A representative from Ediya explained, "It is a sparkling beverage that emphasizes a refreshing and fragrant flavor." Coffee franchise Angel-in-us operated by Lotte GRS also released an ade beverage and shaved ice using tomato basil.
Lotte GRS has previously enjoyed success with dishes that include tomato and basil. A representative example is the "Napoli Mafia Mozzarella Cheese Tomato Basil" menu launched at Lotteria operated by Lotte GRS earlier this year.
Lotteria introduced a mozzarella cheese burger with tomato basil in collaboration with Chef Kwon Sung-jun, known as the "Napoli Mafia," to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the mozzarella burger. This product sold 450,000 units in the first week after its launch. In one month, it sold 1.5 million units, and in three months, it reached 4 million units, thus being designated as a regular selling item.
The related industry believes the popularity of beverages or foods combining tomato and basil is the result of the slow aging trend. The lifestyle of aging slowly emphasizes a recent impact on everyday diets as well. In addition to tomato and basil, avocados and cucumbers are also representative.
An industry source said, "Cucumbers are not suitable for flavoring, and avocados have already had their moment," noting, "Recently, tomato and basil are gaining attention as slow aging ingredients." Another industry source stated, "The search volume for tomato basil beverages increased from 3,000 times in early May to 66,000 times within a month, indicating rising consumer interest," and added, "We expect positive consumer reactions to these niche carbonated beverages this summer."