Ancient-Inspired Hydration Drink Expands to United States
The new non-alcoholic, electrolyte-infused beverage targets health-conscious U.S. consumers.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Healthy Food
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Beverage company founders Merrick Watts and Ed Stening are bringing their non-alcoholic drink, Posca Hydrate, to the United States market. The product is based on a recipe dating back more than 2,000 years to ancient Rome and features added electrolytes and nutrients.
Why it matters
The expansion introduces a historically inspired beverage to American shelves, targeting consumers seeking non-alcoholic options with a focus on nutrient and electrolyte content.
The company reports 50 percent sales growth last year for its non-alcoholic drink. The specific nutrient and electrolyte composition of the recipe, which is based on an ancient Roman formula, remains publicly unknown.
The players
Merrick Watts
Co-founder of the beverage company producing Posca Hydrate.
Ed Stening
Co-founder of the beverage company and former head of the Lion spirits business.
The details
Posca Hydrate is a modernized version of a beverage originally developed more than 2,000 years ago in ancient Rome. The updated formula integrates electrolytes and additional nutrients into a non-alcoholic soda base. This approach is designed to cater to the preferences of modern consumers who prioritize health-conscious ingredients.
Timeline
The original Roman beverage recipe dates back more than 2000 years.
The brand experienced 50 percent sales growth during 2025.
Health Landscape
This product expansion aligns with a broader trend of repurposing ancient hydration formulas to meet current demand for functional, non-alcoholic beverages. It joins a growing marketplace of modern drinks that emphasize electrolyte supplementation and nutrient density.
Consumers interested in functional sodas should review the full ingredient and electrolyte labels when the product reaches the U.S. market. As with any new food or drink, individual sensitivities to specific added nutrients are worth discussing with your doctor.
The takeaway
When choosing new functional beverages, focus on the total electrolyte and nutrient content rather than historical claims alone. Always check nutrition labels to see how a new product aligns with your specific dietary needs.
Further reading
Learn more about selecting functional beverages at our Healthy Food section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Australian Financial Review.
Live Poll
Would you choose a drink based on an ancient recipe over modern alternatives?
