Innovative energy sources have been used for ages. This article discusses the history of energy drinks, from their humble origins in Japan to Red Bull and Monster’s rapid expansion. It also outlines how natural, healthier drinks like King Kongin energy drinks are becoming more popular.
Invention of Energy Drinks
Japan invented the current energy drink after WWII. Taisho Pharmaceuticals sold minibar-sized herbal “energizing tonic” Lipovitan D in 1962. The tonic was first sold to truckers and industry workers who worked long shifts.
Lipovitan, which looks and smells like cough syrup, was touted as a drink to increase mental and physical function. Taurine, the drink’s principal ingredient, would later appear in Red Bull.
Krating Daeng, an energy drink featuring caffeine, taurine, and B vitamins, debuted in Japan in 1976. Krating Daeng and other cocktails caught on in Asia after becoming popular among Japanese executives in the 1980s.
The Rise of Red Bull
Energy drinks gained international popularity when Austrian manufacturer Dietrich Mateschiz toured Bangkok and ‘discovered’ them. He was amazed by the tonics’ results and teamed with Krating Daeng’s makers in 1984 to push the brand global.
Krating Daeng became Red Bull and swept Europe. Taurine, caffeine, and carbonation made Red Bull famous overnight. Mateschiz brought his kid to the US in 1997, launching the energy drink business.
A changing energy drink market
Many emerging firms have sought natural caffeine sources as part of the well-being and clean-eating movement. Also, they market their goods more transparently. Knowing what substances do to the body makes consumers feel more comfortable drinking a product.
Yerba mate tea leaves give Guayaki caffeine, whereas MatchaBar and Kuli Kuli employ green tea leaves.
Their biggest drawback is that these natural energy sources may not provide enough energy and attention.
Some people avoid these options because they despise yerba mate’s and other teas’ bitter taste.
Enter Natural/organic energy drinks
With a rise in health and wellness concerns, the market needed something unique that had no side effects. Also, they wanted it to boost energy and work as consumers expected.
Natural or organic energy drinks occupied much of the market, and consumers were more content.
Today, King Kongin is an emerging brand with experts to back its authenticity. It is a natural energy drink with real fruit and naturally occurring caffeine.
Please note that synthetic caffeine works faster than natural caffeine and is cheap to manufacture. However, it has its fair share of drawbacks if consumed a lot.
You can check King Kongin’s latest arrivals here or on Amazon.
Conclusion
Originally created for long-shift workers, energy drinks are now synonymous with energy and alertness. Natural and organic energy drinks have increased as consumers want healthier options.
King Kongin and other energy drinks without synthetic additives provide a decent boost. Synthetic caffeine may deliver a faster rush, but its side effects make natural alternatives appealing.
Finally, the history of energy drinks may have huge beginnings, but today, it is a multi-billion-dollar business. Customers value energy and well-being, making natural energy drinks an attractive option. Thank You for Reading!
