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Adaptogens in Functional Beverages: Benefits
Adaptogens are natural substances found in plants, herbs, and mushrooms that help the body manage stress and maintain balance. They’re increasingly popular in functional beverages, which combine health benefits with great taste. Here’s what you need to know:
- Why Adaptogens? They support relaxation, energy, focus, and overall wellness without relying on stimulants or sedatives.
- Trending Product: IMPOSSIBREW® non-alcoholic beer, launched in February 2025, uses adaptogens like L-theanine and ashwagandha to mimic the relaxing effects of alcohol.
- Market Growth: The functional beverage market is booming, expected to reach $62 billion by 2027, with adaptogen drinks projected to hit $2.4 billion in sales within the next decade.
Quick Comparison
| Aspect | IMPOSSIBREW® Enhanced Beers | Standard Adaptogen Drinks |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Alcohol alternative for social settings | General wellness and stress relief |
| Key Ingredients | L-theanine, ashwagandha, Vitamin B1 | Rhodiola, ginseng, holy basil, etc. |
| Benefits | Relaxation, familiar beer taste | Variety of functions (energy, focus, etc.) |
| Limitations | Contains 0.5% ABV, higher price point | Taste can vary, effects depend on brand |
| Price | $2.99 per unit | Varies, often lower than IMPOSSIBREW® |
Takeaway: If you’re looking to replace alcohol in social settings, try IMPOSSIBREW®. For daily wellness, explore adaptogen drinks with a wider range of benefits.
Mushroom Magic: Adaptogen Drinks Are The New Alcohol Alternative
1. IMPOSSIBREW® Non-Alcoholic Beer
IMPOSSIBREW® has developed a unique Social Blend™, crafted in collaboration with Dr. Paul Chazot from Durham University. This blend combines traditional brewing techniques with adaptogens to create a drink designed to help you unwind.
Here’s what’s inside the Social Blend™:
- L-Theanine: Known for promoting relaxation and mental focus.
- Ashwagandha Root: Often associated with reducing stress and anxiety.
- Vitamin B1: Plays a role in supporting cognitive health.
- Soluble Plant Fibers: Included for overall wellness.
IMPOSSIBREW® uses a cryogenic fermentation process that skips dealcoholization. This method keeps the flavor intact while maintaining the effectiveness of the adaptogens.
Customer reviews highlight its impact: 71% of users reported feeling more relaxed, and 88% reduced their alcohol consumption after trying IMPOSSIBREW®.
"Social Blend™ technology isn't an accident. It's the result of questioning everything we thought we knew about social drinking... about daring to imagine something that wasn't possible before." – IMPOSSIBREW®
The brand's commitment to quality has not gone unnoticed. In 2023, IMPOSSIBREW®’s Lager and Pale were recognized as the UK's Best Non-Alcoholic Beers, and the company boasts a 4.8-star rating from over 1,000 reviews.
However, IMPOSSIBREW® isn’t for everyone. It’s not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with gastrointestinal issues or hypertension, or those taking medications such as antidepressants or blood thinners.
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2. Standard Adaptogen Drinks
In 2021, the market for adaptogen-infused drinks saw a 33% growth rate. These beverages are crafted with natural ingredients known as adaptogens, which are believed to help manage stress and support mental focus.
Popular Ingredients in Adaptogen Drinks
Many adaptogen drinks include ingredients like:
- Rhodiola: Known for providing steady energy without the caffeine jitters or crashes.
- Ginseng: Often associated with improved mental clarity and stress management.
- Holy Basil: Thought to help stabilize mood and emotional well-being.
- Schisandra: Linked to better focus and cognitive performance.
- Cordyceps: Said to boost energy and physical endurance.
These drinks aim to help your body maintain balance. Professor Norbert Kaminski from Michigan State University explains:
"The idea is these adaptogens help maintain your body and equilibrium."
Market Growth and Consumer Preferences
The non-alcoholic beverage market, valued at $1.46 trillion, is growing at a 6% annual rate. This surge highlights a rising demand for functional drinks that go beyond hydration. In fact, 7 out of 10 consumers choose these beverages for their added health benefits, like better hydration.
John Wiseman, founder of Curious Elixirs, highlights the importance of realistic marketing:
"Our drinks are designed to be incredibly flavorful and with subtle health benefits. Unlike many new brands that are overpromising, we only communicate that Curious Elixirs will help you unwind."
What to Look for in Adaptogen Drinks
When choosing an adaptogen drink, keep these factors in mind:
- Ingredient Quality: Opt for brands that are transparent about sourcing.
- Targeted Benefits: Select adaptogens that match your health and wellness goals.
- Taste: Adaptogens can have bold flavors, so consider your palate.
- Purpose: Think about when and where you'll drink it - for energy, relaxation, or focus.
Adaptogen drinks offer a natural alternative to traditional caffeinated beverages and alcohol. They provide stress relief and cognitive support without the typical downsides of those options. As health-conscious consumers continue to explore these choices, adaptogen drinks are becoming a notable player in the functional beverage market.
Benefits and Limitations
With the growing interest in mental wellness, comparing these two beverage types highlights what each brings to the table. Here's a breakdown of how IMPOSSIBREW® enhanced beers stack up against standard adaptogen drinks:
| Aspect | IMPOSSIBREW® Enhanced Beers | Standard Adaptogen Drinks |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Mimics the relaxing and social effects of alcohol | Offers general wellness benefits |
| Key Benefits | • 71% of users report feeling more relaxed • Familiar beer taste and experience • Consistent formulation across products |
• Wide variety of flavors and functions • Greater diversity in ingredients |
| Limitations | • Contains 0.5% ABV • Higher price point • Limited product range |
• Some flavors may be unfamiliar • Effects can vary by brand and formulation |
| Key Ingredients | Social Blend™: L-Theanine, Ashwagandha, Vitamin B1 | Adaptogens like Rhodiola, Ginseng, Holy Basil, and Schisandra |
| Usage Restrictions | Not suitable during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or with certain medications | Depends on the specific formulation |
Studies and user feedback reveal positive outcomes for both categories, though their strengths differ.
Here are a few things to think about when deciding:
- Health Considerations: IMPOSSIBREW® contains 0.5% ABV, making it unsuitable for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and those on specific medications.
- Purpose: If you're looking for a product that recreates the social feel of drinking, IMPOSSIBREW® is ideal. For broader wellness support, adaptogen drinks may be a better fit.
- Cost: IMPOSSIBREW® products are priced around $2.99 each, which might be higher than some adaptogen options.
The choice ultimately depends on your personal needs and how you respond to the ingredients. IMPOSSIBREW® focuses on replicating the sensory and social aspects of traditional drinking, while adaptogen drinks aim to support overall well-being through a variety of functional benefits. Understanding these differences can help you decide which option aligns best with your goals.
Summary and Recommendations
The analysis highlights that adaptogen-infused functional beverages cater to different needs, offering options for both social settings and overall wellness.
For those looking for an alcohol alternative that fits into social rituals:
- IMPOSSIBREW® Enhanced Beers provide the relaxed feeling of "one or two pints" without the hangover, making them perfect for social gatherings.
For daily wellness and cognitive support:
- Standard Adaptogen Drinks come with a broader range of ingredients and benefits, making them better suited for overall health rather than replacing alcohol.
Your decision depends on whether you're after the social experience of traditional drinks or a more comprehensive approach to wellness. Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Goal | Best Option | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Replace alcohol in social settings | IMPOSSIBREW® | 71% of users feel more relaxed |
| Focus on daily wellness | Standard Adaptogen Drinks | Offers more functional benefits |
| Enjoy familiar flavors | IMPOSSIBREW® | Expertise in brewing ensures authentic taste |
| Explore ingredient variety | Standard Adaptogen Drinks | Includes a wider range of adaptogenic compounds |
"Our enhanced beers don't just taste great - they're specifically crafted to help you unwind naturally." – Mark Wong, founder of IMPOSSIBREW®
If you're transitioning from traditional beer, IMPOSSIBREW® Enhanced Lager ($2.99 per unit) is a great starting point, combining familiar flavors with adaptogenic benefits. On the other hand, if you're prioritizing wellness, trying out different adaptogen drinks can help you discover the best fit for your needs and taste preferences.
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What is IMPOSSIBREW®?
IMPOSSIBREW® is a pioneering non-alcoholic beer brand based in the UK that aims to create the world's most complete alcohol alternative using patent-pending technology.
Founded by Mark Wong in 2021 and working with some of the world's best professors, scientists and expert brewers, IMPOSSIBREW® specialises in expertly crafted non-alcoholic beers designed to match full ABV beers in both taste and feeling.
Product Range
IMPOSSIBREW® offers a range of enhanced non-alcoholic beers, including:
- Enhanced Lager (0.5% ABV)
- Enhanced Pale Ale (0.5% ABV)
- Limited Editions (Seasonal)
Key Benefits
The key feature that sets IMPOSSIBREW® apart is its proprietary "Social Blend™" - a combination of active botanical ingredients and nootropics using patent-pending technology* designed to recreate the relaxing effects of alcohol without the negative side effects.
Along with record-breaking quality flavour that comes from a unique process without removing alcohol.
Social Blend™ Ingredients
Developed with leading scientists in top UK universities, Social Blend™ includes:
- L-Theanine
- Ashwaghanda
- Soluble Plant Fibres
- Vitamin B1
- Various Plant Extracts.
These ingredients are chosen for their potential to boost serotonin, promote relaxation, and create a calming effect similar to the "one or two pint feeling" without hangovers.
See more details on our very own research paper, with over 1,000 participants:
- More than 70% said they felt relaxed after consuming IMPOSSIBREW®.
- 88% have reduced alcohol consumption since discovering IMPOSSIBREW®.
- 95% have told a friend about IMPOSSIBREW® after trying.
- 3/4 say that IMPOSSIBREW® is "the most complete alcohol alternative currently available on the market today".
Recognition
IMPOSSIBREW® has received several notable achievements:
- Featured on BBC's Dragons' Den
- Awarded the first and only Gold Medal in the No/Low beer category from the London Beer Competition
- Received multiple industry Gold awards in categories against Full-ABV beers
- Most followed No/Low Alcohol brand on TikTok globally.
Mission and Vision
IMPOSSIBREW® is on a mission to redefine non-alcoholic drinking by creating better-than-alcohol alternatives for those who love beer but want to avoid the health risks associated with alcohol consumption.
The company aims to become the global leading alcohol alternative brand, focusing on helping people transition to a healthier mode of relaxation without the traditional issues and side effects of alcohol.
Production and Ingredients
IMPOSSIBREW® combines traditional brewing methods with their proprietary Social Blend™ along with patent-pending technology*
The beers are made with traditional brewing ingredients such as water, malted barley, wheat, hops, and yeast, in addition to the Social Blend™ components - leveraging their unique cryogenic fermentation process, which means no alcohol is ever removed from the product - ensuring the most authentic quality taste you've come to expect.
Who is it for?
IMPOSSIBREW® caters to consumers who:
- Are busy professionals and parents who would like to unwind with a drink but don't want the hangovers.
- Enjoy the taste and relaxing experience of beer
- Are looking for healthier alternatives to alcohol, with lower calories, carbs and sugar
- Want to avoid hangovers and other negative effects of alcohol consumption
- Are interested in functional beverages with potential mood-enhancing properties
By offering a unique product that aims to replicate both the taste and feeling of alcoholic beer, IMPOSSIBREW® is positioning itself at the forefront of the growing non-alcoholic beverage market.
Get Started Today
Give it a try today with our Welcome Bundle and get 2 Free Beers with your first purchase. Get it delivered straight to your door, risk-free with our 30-day money-back guarantee.
We hope you enjoy them as much as we do and we can't wait for you to try.
*Patent pending in the UK under application number GB2415685.3
How does 'Social Blend™' work?
Social Blend™ is our proprietary alcohol alternative made from a blend of science-backed ingredients using patent-pending technology*.
Designed to replicate the sensory and social relaxing experience of drinking, minus the headaches (and bad decisions).
Developed with Dr Paul Chazot, Bioscience Professor and Chair of Pharmacology at Durham University.
Key Components and Mechanisms
- L-Theanine:
- Ashwagandha Root:
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamine):
- Various nootropic herbs:
Benefits
- Relaxation: The blend promotes a state of relaxation without the sedative effects typically associated with alcohol.
- Mental Calm: By boosting alpha brain waves and serotonin levels, it helps maintain a calm and focused mental state.
- Stress Relief: The combination of L-Theanine, Ashwagandha, and Vitamin B1 helps mitigate stress and anxiety.
- Mood Enhancement: The inclusion these ingredients and other botanicals supports mood regulation and overall positive outlook.
IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™ is a carefully crafted combination of nootropic and adaptogenic ingredients designed to offer a relaxing and mood-enhancing experience without the drawbacks of alcohol. It leverages the natural properties of its components to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance mood, making it a unique alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages.
(Read our latest research paper here)
*Patent pending in the UK under application number GB2415685.3
Do you ship overseas?
We ship to the UK Mainland for free when you spend over £35
We aim to expand internationally soon - stay tuned!
If you have any queries, feel free to email: hello(@)impossibrew.co.uk
How long will it take to get my orders?
For UK mainland deliveries, normal orders processed here will take 1-3 business days to arrive, with an optional upgrade to Next Day Delivery available (12pm cut-off).
Delivery details will be provided in your confirmation email.
How is 0.5% ABV alcohol-free?
Yes, we know it's confusing. Isn't 0.5% ABV still alcoholic? Officially, 0.5% ABV is classified as Dealcoholised.
- In fact, most things we consume daily have more than 0.5% ABV
- Burger Rolls - 1.2% ABV
- Orange Juice - 0.5% ABV
- Ripe Banana - 0.5% ABV
After more than 2 years of research, we've found that the 0.5% ABV from our natural brewing process significantly increases both flavour and mouthfeel - without spiking your blood alcohol level (BAC).
Is it really gluten-free?
Yes, IMPOSSIBREW® Enhanced Lager is gluten-free. Even though it contains wheat and barley, our beers have been third-party tested to contain less than 10 parts per million (PPM) of gluten, which meets the criteria to be listed as, and labeled gluten-free.
Does it have alcohol tax?
No. While it is true that our beers don't contain alcohol, and thus don't incur UK alcohol duty, we'd like to highlight some factors here that might be helpful in reflecting the value we provide.
- One-to-One Brewing Process: At IMPOSSIBREW, we take pride in our unique brewing techniques. Unlike other non-alcoholic beers, our products are never diluted, watered-down, or have their alcohol content removed - and some even dilute their alcoholic beers up to 5x. This means that our brewing process involves the same level of craftsmanship, time, and resources as a traditional craft beer, resulting in comparable production costs.
- Effective Nootropics: In our commitment to creating the most relaxing non-alcoholic beers, we utilise only the highest quality nootropics as our active ingredients, in safe and effectives dosages. At current alcohol tax rates for a 5% ABV beer, the cost of our nootropics more than double that. Instead of contributing the amounts as tax, why not have it contribute to the product quality itself?
- Small Scale Brewing: Currently, we operate on a smaller scale, which makes us less competitive than large, commercial brewers (often +10,000x our brewing size). As a growing business, we are passionate about our mission to create unique, high-quality non-alcoholic experiences, and we truly appreciate your support. As we continue to grow and expand our production capabilities, we look forward to passing on even more savings to our valued community!
At IMPOSSIBREW, we prioritise offering our customers an enhanced, premium, non-alcoholic beer experience by combining innovative brewing techniques, quality active nootropic ingredients, and award-winning taste. While our pricing may differ from other non-alcoholic competitors, we believe that the value proposition and unique experience our beers provide are well worth it.
At the end of the day, tasting is believing. So give it a try and let us know what you think - risk-free with our IMPOSSIBREW® Guarantee.
Who shouldn't drink IMPOSSIBREW®?
It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, those with certain medical conditions like GI disorders or hypertension, or individuals taking specific medications such as antidepressants or blood thinners. If you fall into any of these categories, it's best to consult with your doctor first.
Ashwagandha can lead to overstimulation (i.e. restlessness) if taken alongside thyroid medication.
What is your philosophy?
For thousands of years, we had only one way to unwind together. One way to let our guards down. One way to bridge the gap between who we are and who we are with others.
Not because it was perfect. But because it was all we had.
We decided that wasn't good enough.
We exist because we believe in a world where social connection doesn't demand compromise.
Where being present with others doesn't mean being absent from yourself. Where letting go doesn't mean losing control.This isn't about removing alcohol. This is about something better.
Our Social Blend™ technology isn't an accident. It's the result of questioning everything we thought we knew about social drinking. About working with scientists to understand what we're really seeking in these moments of connection. About daring to imagine something that wasn't possible before.
We believe the greatest innovations don't just solve problems - they change how we live. They make us question why we ever settled for less.
That's what we're building. Not just a drink, but a new way forward. A future where social connection comes without compromise. Where tradition meets innovation. Where science meets ritual.
This is the future of social drinking.
Got more questions?
Our customer support is available Monday to Friday: 9am - 5:30pm.
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