Ross MacKay, founder of plant-based food start-up Daring Foods, has teamed up with fellow CPG entrepreneur George Heaton to introduce a new functional beverage and nutrition brand, Cadence.

MacKay and Heaton said they identified a significant gap in the $34bn sports beverage market, noting an ‘excessive use’ of sugar and caffeine, and deficiency in essential salts across products currently available on the market.

Recognising salt’s role in maintaining optimal physical performance, the co-founders brought Cadence to life – a ‘first-of-its-kind’ mineral salt beverage, specifically designed for effective hydration, peak performance and maximised recovery.

While most dietary advice focuses on reducing salt intake, recent research has highlighted salt’s importance for those engaging in intense exercise. Salt helps maintain essential electrolyte concentrations, reduces physical fatigue and boosts energy.

Cadence’s electrolyte beverage features a precise formulation of mineral salts, including 500mg of sodium chloride, 295mg magnesium lactate and 190mg potassium chloride.

The zero-calorie, natural, caffeine-free and vegan-friendly sodium drink is launching in a citrus flavour. It is sweetened by plant-based stevia sweetener, and is set to be accompanied by additional flavours to be introduced by the brand in the coming months. The brand is now officially available in the US following its recent successful ‘soft launch’ in Europe.

Co-founder MacKay commented: “I built a business based on a mission to disrupt the global food system and, now I am reframing the narrative around salt. Salt is a vital mineral that every human being needs to function, and those who exercise regularly need a suitable amount of salt in their system to recover and stay healthy. We’re thrilled to bring a first of its kind hydration product to the market that is 100% clean.”

Top image: © Cadence

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