Approval of the Electrolyte Beverages Standard in China: An Overview

On May 10, 2024, the China Beverage Industry Association (CBIA) announced the approval and release of the new group standard "Electrolyte Beverages" (T/CBIA 012-2024). This significant development aims to regulate the production and quality of electrolyte drinks, ensuring safety, consistency, and innovation within the industry. Below, we provide a detailed analysis of the new standard, its implications, and its intended impact on the electrolyte beverage market in China.

Background and Purpose

Electrolyte beverages have gained popularity due to their ability to replenish essential salts and fluids lost during physical activities. Recognizing the need for standardized production practices, the CBIA initiated the formulation of the "Electrolyte Beverages" standard. The main objectives are to:

1. Standardize Production and Quality: Establish uniform requirements for raw materials, sensory evaluation, physical and chemical properties, and food safety.
2. Enhance Product Innovation: Encourage the development of new products within a regulated framework.
3. Ensure Consumer Safety: Adhere to stringent safety standards to protect consumer health.
4. Improve Industry Practices: Guide manufacturers on best practices for labeling, packaging, transportation, and storage.

Key Provisions of the Standard

The "Electrolyte Beverages" standard (T/CBIA 012-2024) encompasses several critical areas:

1. Raw Materials:

   • Use of food nutrient fortifiers must comply with GB14880.
   • Additives should meet the requirements of GB2760.
   • Nutrients and salts must derive from approved sources.

2. Sensory Requirements:

   • The beverage should have a consistent color, taste, and smell.
   • Products must be free of foreign matter.

3. Physical and Chemical Requirements:

   • Soluble solids should not exceed 8.0% (by refractometer method).
   • Osmotic pressure should range between 50-340 mOsmol/L.
   • Sodium content should be between 50-1200 mg/L, and potassium between 50-250 mg/L.
   • Other electrolytes must adhere to relevant food standards.

4. Food Safety:

   • Compliance with GB7101 is mandatory, covering general beverage safety standards.

5. Testing Methods:

   • Detailed procedures for sensory evaluation, measuring soluble solids, osmotic pressure, and electrolyte content.

6. Inspection Rules:

   • Each production batch must undergo thorough testing before market release.
   • Guidelines for factory and type inspections to ensure ongoing compliance.

7. Labeling and Packaging:

   • Labels must follow GB7718 and GB28050, including clear indications of sodium and potassium content.
   • Packaging should protect the product during transportation and storage, complying with GB/T18455.

8. Transportation and Storage:

   • Products must be shielded from sunlight, moisture, and physical damage.
   • Cold chain logistics must be employed where necessary.

Industry Implications

The approval of T/CBIA 012-2024 marks a pivotal moment for the electrolyte beverage sector in China. This standard not only sets a benchmark for product quality but also aligns domestic practices with international food safety and quality norms. By involving major industry players such as PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, and Nongfu Spring in the drafting process, the CBIA has ensured that the standard reflects both global best practices and local industry needs.

Conclusion

The release of the "Electrolyte Beverages" standard by the China Beverage Industry Association is a significant step toward enhancing the quality, safety, and innovation of electrolyte drinks in China. As this standard comes into effect, it will undoubtedly lead to more consistent and reliable products, benefiting both consumers and manufacturers. Companies in the beverage industry should familiarize themselves with T/CBIA 012-2024 and integrate its guidelines into their production processes to ensure compliance and foster consumer trust.

By setting high standards and promoting rigorous adherence, the CBIA continues to play a crucial role in advancing the beverage industry's overall standardization and quality improvement efforts