Joint venture releases collagen-infused functional water in New Zealand

Kiwi companies Adashiko and Parker Beverages have teamed up to launch a functional collagen water, in an effort to capitalise on the global collagen ready-to-drink (RTD) market.

Adashiko Collagen Refresh features a pure shelf-stable collagen and artesian water blend, with no preservatives, flavouring, colours or other additives.

The beverage took over a year to develop by a joint venture between Adashiko, which offers a range of collagen products, and Hawke’s Bay manufacturer Parker Beverages.

Doug Speedy, managing director of Parkers Beverage, says the refined collagen gives the water a crisp, light taste with no need for additional flavours to mask any bitter notes.

With its new beverage, the companies aim to rejuvenate the premium bottled water industry and to introduce nutraceutical beverages widely into the hospitality industry. 

“The bottled water category in the hospitality industry typically consists of unflavoured still and sparkling varieties and has seen little innovation for some time,” said Luci Firth, Adashiko CEO.

She added: “Many New Zealanders will struggle to pay for bottled water and with so little value added by suppliers, restaurateurs and bar owners are left to compete head-on with tap water, while still having to cover the cost of supplying it.

“The addition of a functional water product to this category means they will now be able to offer a competing product which they can justify retailing at a premium price point.”

According to Firth, the neutral-tasting, odourless collagen water can also be used as a mixer for cocktails.

Adashiko Collagen Refresh water is being rolled out nationwide and is currently available in New Zealand supermarkets and a number of restaurants and bars. With interest from export markets, the companies have said it has begun the regulatory process in the USA, Australia and Singapore.