Zero-calorie beverages are low-calorie drinks labeled as “0 calories” if they contain less than 5 calories per 100 milliliters. (Image courtesy of GS25)
SEOUL, May 20 (Korea Bizwire) –As health-conscious consumers grow in numbers, zero-calorie drinks have surpassed 50 percent of carbonated beverage sales at convenience stores in South Korea.
GS25, a major convenience store chain, announced on May 21 that from January to April of this year, zero-calorie drinks accounted for 52.3 percent of its total carbonated beverage sales.
Zero-calorie beverages are low-calorie drinks labeled as “0 calories” if they contain less than 5 calories per 100 milliliters.
The proportion of zero-calorie drinks in GS25′s carbonated beverage sales has been steadily rising, from 32 percent in 2022 to 41.3 percent last year, and crossing the 50 percent mark this year.
Out of the 112 carbonated beverage products currently sold at GS25, 61 are zero-calorie options, a twentyfold increase from just three products in 2020.
GS25 attributes the surge in zero-calorie drink consumption to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has heightened health awareness and led to a number of fitness trends ultimately influencing consumer eating habits.
In response to this trend, GS25 is collaborating with Lotte Chilsung to launch two new private-brand zero-calorie carbonated beverages on May 29: “Yours Soft Soda Zero Strawberry” and “Yours Soft Soda Zero Peach.” These drinks not only have zero calories but also contain no artificial coloring and have lower carbonation levels.
“The trend towards health promotion is a global phenomenon,” said Eo Dong-il, the merchandise director of GS25′s beverage team. “Going forward, we aim to expand our offerings beyond zero-calorie drinks to include a diverse range of functional beverages, such as juices and teas, catering to consumers seeking a healthier lifestyle.”
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
