Core Ingredients of HOPR
At its foundation, HOPR is a refreshing sparkling water infused with key functional ingredients. The company, founded in Australia, created the beverage as a zero-alcohol, zero-sugar, and zero-calorie alternative for social drinking. The key to its unique flavour and functional effects lies in its simple yet carefully selected components. The base of all HOPR drinks consists of:
- Filtered Carbonated Water: Provides the refreshing, bubbly base for the beverage.
- Hops: These are the flowers of the Humulus lupulus plant, commonly used in beer for flavour and aroma. HOPR steeps the hops in water, not fermenting them, to extract their characteristic floral, citrusy, and earthy notes without alcohol.
- Citric Acid: A natural preservative and flavor enhancer derived from citrus fruits, it helps balance the flavor profile.
- Potassium Sorbate: A common food preservative used to ensure product stability and shelf life.
- L-Theanine: An amino acid found in green and black tea, it is included as a nootropic to help improve focus and promote relaxation.
- Lemon Balm: An adaptogenic herb used for its calming properties and ability to help manage stress.
Flavor-Specific and Functional Ingredients
While the core ingredients remain consistent, HOPR offers a range of flavours that introduce additional elements to create distinct profiles and functional benefits. Some of the notable additions include:
- Natural Flavor: Added to certain varieties like The Mango One or The Lemon Lime One to achieve specific taste profiles.
- Passionflower: This botanical is included in The Lemon Lime One for its calming and sleep-enhancing properties.
- Specific Hop Varieties: The Citra Hops One uses Citra hops for its floral and citrus notes, while The Citra & Amarillo Hops One combines two popular craft beer hops for a tropical flavour. The Lemon Lime One uses New Zealand Motueka hops.
- Ashwagandha: Some products from the brand, especially those developed through collaborations like with Purematcha, have incorporated Ashwagandha, an adaptogen known to regulate stress hormones.
The Brewing Process: Infusion vs. Fermentation
The creation of HOPR distinguishes it from both beer and traditional hard seltzers. While both are fermented, HOPR completely bypasses this process. This is a crucial detail that explains its non-alcoholic status and lack of sugar and calories.
- HOPR's Process: The manufacturer creates HOPR by steeping hops and botanicals directly into filtered carbonated water. This is similar to making tea, where the flavor and functional compounds are infused into the water.
- Beer's Process: Beer is made by fermenting grains (like barley or wheat) with yeast, which produces alcohol and carbonation. Hops are added at various stages for bitterness, flavor, and aroma.
- Hard Seltzer's Process: Most hard seltzers ferment cane sugar. This fermentation process creates alcohol, but unlike beer, it produces a neutral flavor base which is then flavored with syrups and essences.
HOPR Flavour Comparison: The Citra Hops One vs. The Lemon Lime One
| Feature | The Citra Hops One | The Lemon Lime One |
|---|---|---|
| Core Ingredients | Filtered Carbonated Water, Hops, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid, Lemon Balm, L-Theanine | Filtered Carbonated Water, Hops, Lemon Balm, Passionflower, L-Theanine, Natural Flavour, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid |
| Hops Used | Citra hops | Motueka hops (from New Zealand) |
| Flavour Profile | Floral and citrus aroma with notes of lychee and elderflower | Fresh, citrus 'mojito' lime character with lemon-lime and tropical fruit notes |
| Added Botanicals | Lemon Balm, L-Theanine | Lemon Balm, Passionflower, L-Theanine |
| Taste Experience | More beer-like, with a distinct hoppy taste | Zesty and fruity with a hint of citrus mojito flavour |
Who is HOPR for?
HOPR was developed for a growing market of consumers who are consciously choosing to cut back on alcohol or are sober curious. Its appeal extends to those seeking a healthier, alcohol-free alternative for social situations, or simply a relaxing beverage for the evening. The addition of functional ingredients like L-theanine and lemon balm targets individuals looking for a calming effect without the stimulants found in coffee or the depressant effects of alcohol. The drink is also suitable for vegans and individuals with gluten sensitivity due to its plant-based, non-grain ingredients.
Conclusion: A Clear Look at HOPR's Contents
In conclusion, the ingredients in HOPR reveal a functional, non-alcoholic sparkling water built on a simple foundation. At its core, the beverage combines filtered carbonated water, hops, citric acid, and preservatives with mood-boosting botanicals like L-theanine and lemon balm. Different flavors introduce additional ingredients such as natural essences and specific hop varieties to create a range of unique taste experiences. By avoiding fermentation and relying on natural infusions, HOPR provides a refreshing and guilt-free option for those seeking an adult-tasting beverage without the downsides of alcohol. The combination of clean ingredients and functional purpose makes HOPR a distinct entrant in the wellness and non-alcoholic drinks space. For more information, visit the official HOPR website.
