The rise of functional beverages

What if your drink did more for you? Let’s talk about functional beverages. Whether you’re looking to replace alcohol with a healthier daily ritual, as a social lubricant, or as a wind-down tool, there’s a growing sector of adult non-alcoholic beverages that intersects with wellness, lifestyle, and even personal expression.

Functional beverages are drinks with added benefits beyond taste and refreshment. The most visible of these are probiotic sodas, like Olipop and Poppi. Just walk in any grocery store, and you’ll see firsthand how widespread these brands have become. By offering a soda alternative, these brands have made probiotics that support gut health mainstream – and consumers are all in. Olipop, founded in 2018, brought in a solid $500 million in revenue by 2024.

But functional beverages go well beyond probiotics and gut health. Think, electrolytes for added hydration, adaptogens for stress relief, nootropics for cognitive function, and botanicals for relaxation. As alcohol sales shrink, alternatives rise, and there are a ton of options on the market offering similar effects like increased sociability, a calmer headspace, and increased energy (with no hangover, mind you). For many, imbibing functionals is about having options that elevate the moment… without the side effects of booze.

Do’Mo: A brand to watch

One standout functional beverage brand is Do’Mo, who are redefining what it means to sip with intention. Do’Mo creates refined, non-alcoholic beverages that heighten the non-alc experience. What sets them apart is a powerful blend of 6,000 mg of 17 functional ingredients in each can – substantially more than most functional beverages on the market. Natural nootropics boost energy and combat fatigue. Amino acids support the production of GABA, serotonin, and dopamine, and neurotransmitters that promote relaxation and pleasure. All of these ingredients are supported by nutrients and absorption enhancers to ensure you feel the benefits fast. Already winning awards a mere 6 months after launching, Do’Mo has great momentum.

But Do’Mo isn’t just about what’s in your glass – it’s about rethinking why and how we drink in the first place. One particularly interesting shift? The growing conversation around sober sex. Historically, alcohol has been used to relax and get in the mood, but more people are realizing alcohol actually can dull sensation, hinder connection, and lead to less intentional encounters. Valentine’s Day is around the corner – are you taking notes?

Functional beverages are offering an alternative: drinks that enhance the mood without numbing your body or connection. Traditional aphrodisiac herbs like damiana and maca are finding their way into functional beverages. to heighten pleasure, increase relaxation, and encourage presence in intimate moments. These beverages are rewriting the narrative around what it means to feel confident, connected, and sexy without relying on alcohol. 

The future of functional beverages

Globally, the functional beverage market is expected to grow from $164.8 billion in 2024 to $175.84 billion in 2025, with projections indicating continued expansion. What’s more important to notice, though, is a deeper shift in consumer behavior – driven by increasing interest in health and wellness, the future of drinking looks more intentional than ever, and we’re along for the ride.