SPECIAL SECTION
CANNED CRAFT COCKTAILS
A Healthy Way CANTEEN SHAPES THE HEALTH AND WELLNESS RTD SPACE By Joseph Luparello As the ready-to-drink category continues to unfold, shaping on-the-go drinking experiences, the mega frenzy of brands launching in the space envelops all aspects in the industry. As such, more brands innovate in flavor and style with canned creations evolving to suit the needs of all different types of imbibers. It’s no surprise that a spirit brand would zero in on the health and wellness sector. Austinbased RTD brand Canteen offers an alternative to canned drinks with an overly sweet reputation. Targeting the health-conscious drinker, Canteen specializes in refreshing, low-calorie, spirits-based canned cocktails. Its offerings are crafted from premium spirits with natural flavors, making each can of Canteen low in carbs, sugar, and sodium, as well as gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegan. The inspiration behind Canteen stems from the demand for a more premium beverage option made with strictly high-quality spirits. The team saw an open door for a product that not only incorporated real vodka but also possessed a rich, bold flavor that didn’t come at the expense of quality ingredients. The Canteen portfolio includes Vodka Soda, a vodka-based canned cocktail, Cantina, a tequila-based canned cocktail, and Gin Spritz, a gin-based canned cocktail. Each line contains a variety of delicious flavor combos, including Watermelon and Cucumber Mint Vodka Soda, Ranch Water and Grapefruit Paloma Tequila Soda, and Blossom and Citrus Gin Spritz. These expressions are made with an impressive but simple list of healthy alternatives in the ingredients and approach, making Canteen the better-for-you choice. Bartenders can utilize these fun and flavorpacked drinks to put a contemporary spin on the classics, like a Moscow Mule. As a bonus, the cocktails contain several ingredients in just one can, so they are a sustainable alternative by reducing waste.
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