Carlsberg Britvic-owned Plenish has expanded into the flavoured milk alternatives category to launch its new Dark Cocoa and Sea Salt Almond Drink, launched via Ocado.

Available now at an RRP of £2.50, the drink combines ‘rich dark cocoa depth with soft almond nuttiness and a velvety-smooth finish’.

According to data cited by the company, the growing flavoured milk alternatives market is now worth £19.2 million, and is growing by 12% year-on-year ahead of the unflavoured market. Additionally, the brand noted that research found 23% of UK consumers are aiming to reduce their sugar consumption.

The new drink responds to this demand, promoted as offering 30% less sugar compared with most UK chocolate plant-based beverages. It is also made without the use of oils, additives and artificial ingredients, like the rest of Plenish’s range.

The cocoa beans have been sourced in partnership with Tony’s Open Chain, with a farmer-first approach centred around human rights and environmental protection. Tony’s Open Chain works with cocoa operatives in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire, aiming to address structural inequality and poverty in these communities while building more equitable relationships with farmers.

Russell Goldman, managing director of breakthrough brands at Carlsberg Britvic, said: “We know today’s consumers are increasingly looking for ways to enjoy their favourite treats while also maintaining their health goals. That’s why we wanted to take our first step into flavoured m*lks and create a product that on great taste whilst staying true to our minimal ingredient promise”.

He added: “We’re proud to partner with Tony’s Open Chain to offer consumers something genuinely delicious that’s also thoughtfully made”.

This is the second brand-new product innovation from Plenish within the last month as the brand continues to offer its take on some of the beverage category’s biggest current nutrition and taste trends.

Addressing demand for clean-label, functional and high-protein options, the brand introduced its new Protein Oat Drink earlier this month, offering 10g of protein per serving while retaining Plenish’s artificial additive-free status.