从解渴到健康，冰茶市场迈入减糖新阶段

Core Insights - The iced tea market is experiencing significant growth, with a global market size reaching $53.3 billion in 2023 and projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.7%, potentially exceeding $100 billion by 2033 [1][2]. Market Trends - A substantial 71.4% of consumers prioritize "reduced sugar/no sugar" labels when selecting iced tea, and 82.9% prefer reduced sugar formulations [2]. - The shift towards health-conscious consumption is evident, as consumers are increasingly valuing quality ingredients and taste over price [4]. Historical Context - The iced tea category in China began in 1993 with the introduction of bottled iced tea by Xuri Sheng, followed by major brands like Master Kong and Uni-President in 1996, which quickly captured consumer attention with classic flavors [6]. - The evolution of iced tea reflects a broader trend towards health, with reduced sugar and natural ingredients becoming key selling points [6]. Innovations and New Entrants - The unicorn brand Yuanqi Forest has redefined traditional iced tea by launching a "true tea, true fruit juice, reduced sugar" product, significantly reducing sugar content compared to standard iced teas [6][8]. - Yuanqi Forest's iced tea is projected to achieve sales of 1 billion units in 2024, a 500% increase from approximately 200 million units in 2023 [6]. Competitive Landscape - Established brands are also entering the iced tea market, with companies like Nongfu Spring launching carbonated tea drinks and other brands like Dongpeng and Wahaha introducing innovative products targeting specific consumer segments [10]. - The market is witnessing a transformation from merely quenching thirst to prioritizing health and ingredient quality, indicating a significant shift in consumer preferences [10][11].