TOP has developed a natural sports drink based on fresh whey which is a part of the Dutch IPC project 'Food, Sports and Health".
Literature study of TOP on the functioning of proteins shows that minimally processed and unheated proteins, potentially have a better contribution to muscle recovery after exercise, which leads to better sports performance. Therefore the sports drink is based on fresh whey, which is only mildly treated with pascalization, to ensure food safety and an extended shelf life.
Sports nutrition is a growing category within health products. The current offer of protein-rich sports drinks mainly consists of powders that need to be rehydrated before usage. A chilled, natural and ready-to-use sports drink, taking into account performance, taste and health is not yet on the market. And yet natural and healthy products are becoming increasingly popular.
Convenience, natural and minimally processed are the main features of this sports drink. Besides fresh whey, it also includes fresh black currant and beet juice. Therefore it is not only rich in protein (10%) but it also contains fiber and micronutrients, including potassium and magnesium, which are relevant for muscle recovery after exercise. The sports drink is named RE:Balance, because healthy exercise suits good sports nutrition for a healthy balance.
In cooperation with InnoSportNL, the organization that initiates and realizes the development of innovative products and services for athletes, top athletes at the Dutch Sportcentrum Papendal will test the sports drink soon. The athletes are hereby prompted for the taste, the usage and the overall impression of the new sports drink. Based on this feedback TOP will finalize the drink for production and market launch. TOP hopes to find production and sales partners to introduce this product to the market.
