[Today’s New Product] Functional Cola-Flavored Soda "Aesabi Cola Zero"

CU Expands Its Healthy Soda Category

On May 19, BGF Retail announced that its convenience store brand CU has launched “Aesabi Cola Zero,” a new product in the healthy soda category of functional carbonated beverages.

Healthy sodas combine functional elements such as low sugar, zero calories, and prebiotics with carbonated beverages, expanding their reach in line with the “healthy pleasure” trend—enjoying drinks while managing health.

CU introduces AsaBi Cola Zero as a new product in the Healthy Soda category. Provided by BGF Retail

As of 2024, CU’s sales of healthy soda-related beverages increased by 14.7% compared to the previous year, with growth of 11.8% in 2025 and 23.6% in the first four months of this year. The number of healthy soda products offered by CU has also grown more than fivefold, from 25 varieties five years ago to 135 today.

Aesabi Cola is the first flavor of its kind to be introduced in Korea by CU. It recreates “Apple Cider Vinegar (Aesabi),” one of the most popular healthy sodas, in a familiar cola flavor. The product contains 1,000mg of apple cider vinegar and 3,000mg of dietary fiber, and uses allulose instead of aspartame, resulting in 0g of sugar. The company explained that the carbonation level is 4.2vol, which is 14% higher than similar products, providing a stronger fizz and refreshing sensation.

CU is also directly importing “Hoover,” a Spanish fruit juice made with 100% freshly squeezed juice and no added water, to enhance the original fruit flavor. It is available in three varieties—apple, grape, and grapefruit—at 2,900 won per bottle.

Lee Seungtaek, Head of the Beverage Food Team at BGF Retail, said, “Recently, products emphasizing functionality, beyond just low sugar and low calories, are gaining popularity with consumers,” adding, “We will continue to closely monitor complex consumer trends and consistently introduce a diverse range of products to meet customer demand.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.