top of page
FBX2.png

The latest food and beverage industry news and trend analysis

Exchange
Share Your ThoughtsBe the first to write a comment.
Article
Article
Nov - Food Bev - Website Banner - TIJ vs TTO 300x250.gif

Califia Farms, a leading innovator in the plant-based beverage sector, has announced a significant expansion of its United Kingdom ready-to-drink (RTD) estate with the debut of the Blueberry Matcha Almond Latte. Scheduled for a nationwide rollout on 18 May 2026, the product represents a strategic move to productise high-street café trends for the at-home consumer, specifically targeting the rapid acceleration of matcha consumption across Western markets.


The launch is positioned as a "first-to-market" flavour innovation, engineered to bridge the gap between functional wellness tea and indulgent plant-based lattes.


A primary differentiator for the new SKU is the technical focus on "authenticity and consistency." While many RTD tea products rely on heavily processed extracts, Califia Farms is utilising 0.4 per cent single-origin Japanese matcha to ensure a high-fidelity sensory profile that mirrors professional barista standards.


Key Technical Attributes Include


  • Flavour Layering: The formulation pairs the earthy notes of premium matcha with a subtle blueberry profile, designed to provide a multi-dimensional taste without the need for high sugar loads.


  • Lipid Base: Utilises the brand's signature almond milk to deliver a smooth, creamy mouthfeel that serves as a neutral canvas for the delicate tea and fruit aromatics.


  • Caloric Control: Positioned as a "lighter" alternative in the indulgent RTD space, the liquid contains only 93 kcal per serving and maintains a low sugar content to appeal to the wellness-conscious "intentional" shopper.



Retail and Availability

Califia Farms is utilising a phased distribution model to maximise early volume and brand visibility. By securing a three-month nationwide exclusive with Tesco, the organisation is ensuring the product dominates the functional chilled aisle during the peak summer trading window.


The 750ml multi-serve format is a tactical move to encourage household penetration, moving the product beyond the single-serve "grab-and-go" occasion and into the "fridge staple" category. The £3.25 RRP positions the latte in the premium-value tier, offering an accessible price point for lifestyle consumers seeking a more consistent and cost-effective alternative to daily café purchases.

Califia Farms Expands UK RTD Portfolio With Blueberry Matcha Launch

Eddie Sanders
Eddie Sanders
May 14, 2026
Califia Farms Expands UK RTD Portfolio With Blueberry Matcha Launch
Asset 8.png
New Products

Quorn Launches Air Fryer Optimised Lemon and Pepper Schnitzel

Asset 8.png
New Products

Vivera and The Vegetarian Butcher Launch Nutritious Plant-Based Range

Asset 8.png
Plant-based

Kite Hill Launches High-Protein Plant-Based Cream Cheese

Asset 8.png
New Products

THIS Expands Portfolio with Ready-to-Eat Plant-Based Deli Slices

Related news
You’re reading a free preview of The Newsroom 📰

✅ Get full access to The Newsroom — your personalised F&B feed with curated insights, company updates, and announcements. + access to the full app collection from FNBX

bottom of page