Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the innovative launch of a transparent protein water by Japan's 7-Eleven private brand Cycle.me, highlighting its unique features and market potential in the growing protein beverage sector [3][7][12]. Product Features - Cycle.me's protein water contains 5g of low molecular collagen protein per bottle, aiming to provide hydration while supplementing protein intake [15][17]. - The product is marketed as low-calorie and not overly sweet, with a subtle peach flavor, making it more palatable for consumers [18]. - It utilizes deep-sea water from Kochi Prefecture, Japan, which is rich in minerals, suitable for hydration during outdoor activities [18]. Market Trends - Consumer interest in protein as a desirable nutrient has surged, with Cycle.me's research indicating it is the top nutrient consumers wish to actively incorporate into their diets [18]. - The protein food and beverage market in Japan is projected to grow by 2.8% in 2024, reaching approximately 276.3 billion yen (around 11.4 billion RMB) [18]. Development Challenges - Cycle.me faced significant challenges in maintaining the clarity and stability of the protein water during production, requiring extensive optimization of raw materials and processing techniques [19]. - The collaboration with DyDo, a major Japanese beverage manufacturer, was crucial in developing a product that retains nutritional value without compromising on transparency [19]. Comparison with Global Trends - While Cycle.me's product is unique in its transparent form, similar protein water products in the Western market often utilize hydrolyzed whey protein, resulting in a semi-transparent appearance [28][30]. - The trend of incorporating protein into everyday beverages is gaining traction globally, with brands like Super Coffee and SEEQ also innovating in this space [42][34].

现在要和你介绍一瓶含有蛋白质的水。 好了，当看到上面这句话，你的脑海里这瓶"水"是什么的颜色？ 大多数人的第一反应，可能都是乳白色。毕竟，牛奶、蛋白，乃至我们日常接触的蛋白饮料，几乎都带有乳感。在大部分消费者认知中，"蛋白质"与"乳 制"几乎是绑定的。 但这次，日本7-Eleven的自有品牌Cycle.me却选择了推出了一款透明的蛋白质"水"。 Cycle.me蛋白质水，图片来源：Cycle.me —— X @muscle sweets 说实话，我感觉还是买水煮蛋吃比较好。 ——X @tannpakukennkyu Cycle.me蛋白质水，图片来源：Cycle.me 日本当地的消费者也没怎么见过这种产品，因此一经推出，好奇的消费者就涌向了7-Eleven便利店，并在社交媒体分享自己的饮用体验： 小的7-Eleven根本没有，我在3个大的7-Eleven都找到了。最初的第一口有点黏，能感觉到类似胶原的口感，就像嘴里含了少量无味果冻一样。 ——Impress Watch @西村夢音 甜度适中，带淡淡的桃子味道。 ——X @lipsip 我喝了最近很流行的"蛋白质水"，结论是再也不买了。 Cycle.me蛋白质水 ...