
Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the surprising resurgence of the previously unpopular beverage "Red Scream" from Nongfu Spring, which has seen its price skyrocketing in the second-hand market despite being criticized as one of the "most undrinkable beverages" in China [5][7][10]. Group 1: Product Background - "Red Scream" was launched by Nongfu Spring targeting white-collar workers and brain workers with a "ginseng compound fruit flavor" [6]. - The beverage faced severe backlash upon release, receiving negative reviews and being labeled as one of the "top 5 most undrinkable beverages" in China [7][9]. - Following its poor market performance, "Red Scream" gradually faded from the market around 2018 [9]. Group 2: Recent Developments - In 2024, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the "Scream" brand, Nongfu Spring decided to relaunch a limited edition of "Red Scream," with 10,000 boxes available at a price of 75 yuan per box (5 yuan per bottle) [14][15]. - The limited edition sold out within three days on e-commerce platforms, despite its short shelf life of 12 months [16][17]. Group 3: Market Reaction - The second-hand market has seen prices for "Red Scream" bottles rise to between 48 and 200 yuan, with entire boxes being listed for as much as 1,000 yuan, marketed as "limited edition collectibles" [19]. - This phenomenon raises suspicions about the involvement of professional second-hand sellers capitalizing on the "limited edition" label [25]. Group 4: Consumer Behavior - The article notes that some consumers may be purchasing the beverage out of curiosity or nostalgia, wanting to experience the infamous taste for themselves [26][30]. - Content creators on social media are also buying such products to create engaging content, further driving demand [30][31]. Group 5: Company Response - Nongfu Spring has responded to the price inflation by stating that they will report the situation to relevant authorities and that future sales will depend on actual market performance [35]. - The company emphasized that the product contains beneficial ingredients, but the limited edition is nearing its expiration date, which could pose safety risks [38].