Dongwon F&B's zero calorie drinks / Courtesy of Dongwon F&B

By Kim Jae-heun

Dongwon F&B has recently launched a zero-calorie ion drink called Transparent Ion, followed by the introduction of Boseong Black Ice Tea Zero last June. The company is expanding its product line as part of its efforts to target the fast-growing zero-calorie beverage market here.

Zero-calorie drinks have actually been leading the growth of Dongwon F&B's beverage sector. As of September this year, the food company's sales of zero-calorie drinks more than tripled to show about 25 billion won (17.6 million), year-on-year.

Both Transparent Ion and Boseong Black Ice Tea Zero have broken the stereotype that ice tea and ion drinks have high calories and are too sweet. They are drawing much attention from consumers who are health conscious.

The cumulative sales of Boseong Black Ice Tea Zero surpassed 15 million bottles just one year after its launch ― riding high on the popularity of zero-calorie drinks. Dongwon expects to sell 30 million by the end of this year.

Transparent Ion is designed to target consumers who feel burdened by the high calorie and sugar levels of ion drinks, which many seek after working out. Dongwon did not add any coloring to the drink so as to keep it clear, which helps give it a cool refreshing feeling.

The two drinks are receiving positive feedback in various online communities and on social media too. One of the well-known local influencers uploaded a video of herself enjoying Boseong Black Ice Tea with "soju," a Korean distilled spirit, and its recipe went viral.

Dongwon has been actively investing in the research and development of healthy drinks and building related manufacturing facilities. In 2018, the company spent 140 billion won to adopt aseptic technology to produce drinks that are more hygienic and flavorful.

"The popularity of zero-calorie drinks is increasing here with consumers' growing interest in health. We will continue to introduce more variety of products meeting the market's demand," a Dongwon F&B official said.