New Brew emerged from a desire to provide a sophisticated, non-alcoholic alternative for social rituals, leveraging ancient plant-based ingredients instead of alcohol. The brand's founders sought to reintroduce ceremonial plants into drinking, promoting a sense of calm and wellness. By combining extracts from the kratom leaf and kava root, New Brew aims to deliver a distinct and palpable effect that is different from both alcohol and traditional caffeinated beverages.
The Core Active Ingredients: Kratom and Kava
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa)
This evergreen tree is native to Southeast Asia, where its leaves have been traditionally used for centuries to combat fatigue, enhance productivity, and manage discomfort. In New Brew, the extract from the kratom leaf is a primary active ingredient. Each can contains approximately 25mg of Mitragynine, a key alkaloid responsible for its mood-enhancing and mildly stimulating properties at lower doses. The company uses a broad-spectrum extract to reflect the natural composition of the plant, rather than isolating specific, more potent alkaloids.
Important Kratom Considerations
- Legality: While federally legal, kratom is banned in several states (including Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin) and some local municipalities. Consumers should verify local regulations before purchasing or consuming.
- FDA Warnings: The FDA has not approved kratom for any medicinal use and has warned consumers about potential risks, including liver toxicity, seizures, and substance use disorder.
Kava (Piper methysticum)
Kava is a root from the South Pacific, traditionally used in Polynesian ceremonies and social gatherings to promote relaxation and sociability. Its active compounds, called kavalactones, have mild to moderate sedative effects and can induce a sense of bliss. A single 12 fl oz can of New Brew contains about 100-125mg of Kava root extract, which works to produce a feeling of calm.
Other Key Ingredients and Flavoring
In addition to its signature botanicals, New Brew contains other components to provide its taste, effervescence, and subtle energizing lift.
Caffeine from Tea
Unlike many conventional seltzers, New Brew includes a small amount of natural caffeine, derived from Earl Grey black tea extract. At 30mg per can, it provides a gentle lift, balancing the relaxing effects of kava and the stimulating properties of kratom. Some flavors, like the citrus variety, might use brewed oolong tea instead.
Flavor and Sweeteners
New Brew is sweetened with a combination of organic cane sugar, agave syrup, and monkfruit extract. The distinct flavor profiles come from natural flavors and real fruit juice concentrates, which vary by flavor. For example, the Mango variety contains mango puree and lime juice concentrate, while the Berry flavor uses raspberry and lemon juice concentrates.
Additional Components
- Filtered Water: The base of the seltzer.
- Sodium Citrate: A salt used as a preservative and to regulate acidity.
- Citric Acid: Adds a tart flavor, contributing to the overall taste.
The Synergy of Ingredients
The combination of kava and kratom is intended to provide a balanced, non-inebriating experience. The kava provides a sense of calm and relaxation, while the low-dose kratom offers a gentle mood boost and increased clarity. The addition of a small amount of caffeine from the tea extract provides an extra layer of focus and energy without the jitters or crash associated with high-dose coffee or energy drinks. The company emphasizes sipping to assess tolerance, as the effects can vary significantly between individuals.
New Brew vs. Common Alternatives: A Comparison
| Feature | New Brew (Euphoric Seltzer) | Alcoholic Beverage | Coffee (or Energy Drink) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Active Ingredients | Kava, Kratom, Caffeine | Ethanol | Caffeine |
| Intended Effect | Calm, clarity, non-inebriating bliss | Intoxication, relaxation, disinhibition | Stimulation, alertness, energy |
| Potential Risks | Nausea, constipation, habit-forming; FDA warnings on kratom; legal restrictions in some areas | Addiction, impaired judgment, hangover, long-term health issues | Jitters, anxiety, sleep disruption, dependence |
| Alcohol Content | 0.0% | Varies | 0.0% |
| Best For | Socializing, relaxing, creative pursuits without impairment | Social events, unwinding; can impair judgment | Morning routine, productivity boosts |
Safety and Responsible Consumption
Given the active botanical ingredients, responsible consumption is paramount. New Brew is intended for adults 21 and over and is not recommended for those with a history of substance abuse, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, or those on certain medications. The brand itself advises against mixing with alcohol and recommends against daily consumption due to its habit-forming potential. It is crucial for consumers to understand the active components they are ingesting and to respect their personal tolerance.
New Brew Flavor Profiles
For a refreshing and palatable experience, New Brew offers a variety of flavors:
- Mango: A tropical and radiant flavor featuring mango puree and lime juice concentrate.
- Berry: A balance of sweet and tart, with raspberry and lemon juice concentrates.
- Citrus: A bright and zesty flavor using lime and lemon juice concentrate.
- Yuzu: A crisp, yuzu-infused seltzer with a smooth, fruity taste.
Conclusion
Ultimately, what New Brew has in it is a carefully calibrated blend of ancient botanical extracts designed to provide a unique, non-alcoholic drinking experience. By combining the relaxing properties of kava and the stimulating effects of low-dose kratom, along with a touch of natural caffeine, it offers a different kind of buzz. However, this novelty comes with important safety considerations, including regulatory scrutiny and the need for informed, responsible use. Before trying this euphoric seltzer, consumers should be aware of the active ingredients, understand the potential risks, and check the legality of kratom in their specific location.
Our Mission: Redefining What It Means to “Share A Drink” - New Brew
