Is Nitrogen The Next Evolution In The Coffee Market?

Following Starbucks’ decision to launch nitrogen-infused cold coffee in 500 of its stores across the U.S, Califia Farms has joined the race to tap into what could be the next evolution in the coffee market.

Announcing the launch of Califia Nitro Cold Brew, the first completely dairy-free, nitro-infused cold brew coffee latte, the innovative beverage company says the new product will untap the next great adventure in coffee.

“Califia Nitro Cold Brew is a healthy, non-alcoholic alternative to a refreshing craft beer experience,” explained Greg Steltenpohl, CEO of Califia Farms.  

“And it’s a tastier, plant-powered option for fans of Nitro coffee who like it creamy and prefer not to consume cow’s milk,” he added.

According to Mintel, cold brew coffee has experienced dramatic growth over the past year, with 24% of consumers reporting they are drinking it.

Califia Farms, which is already a leader in RTD coffee drinks (outpacing Starbucks in specialty retailers), aims to lead innovation in the emerging trend. The company, which is known for disrupting retail refrigerator shelves hopes to bring its own unique spin to the category.

Marrying creamy almond and macadamia milks with a cold brew made from a specially-curated signature blend of direct-sourced beans, Califia Nitro Cold Brew is infused with a jolt of nitrogen that brings out the natural sweetness of the coffee in a silky micro-foam reminiscent of a dark draft beer.

“Whether purchased to drink on-the-go or poured into a glass for a gleaming head of foam, we are excited to be making this kind of frothy artisan brew conveniently available to consumers at retailers nationwide,” said Steltenpohl.  

Serving the growing ranks of customers (particularly millennials) seeking premium, clean energy swaps for high-sugar carbonated and coffee drinks, nitrogen-infused coffee has been popular in a number of independent coffee shops for the past few years, but the trendy beverage has yet to hit the mainstream.

Spotting the potential to move in on the market, Starbucks, who expects the cold coffee category to double in the next three years, is pitching its hopes on the long-term appeal of nitro-coffee, as part of the company’s ongoing investment in the category of iced beverages.

“The opportunity to create an entirely new cold coffee experience is limitless and our customers are already telling us that they want to meet us on this journey as cold coffee is now becoming a go-to drink,” concluded Howard Schultz, Starbucks chairman and ceo.