Consumers are increasingly looking for healthy carbonated drinks that deliver the “bubbles” they want without the calories. They now have a great new option: 2B Sparkling, the first beverage to use Purefruit^™Natural Sweetener, has launched in Rexam (rexam.com) 12-ounce cans.

Purefruit originates from the monk fruit. For centuries, Buddhist monks have cultivated the small fruit and treasured it for its sweetness, which comes from unique, naturally occurring antioxidants. The result is a delicious sweet taste, but without the calories of sugar.

That’s how 2B Sparkling delivers all-natural, great-tasting carbonated refreshment with just 30 calories per 12-ounce serving, and no artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners or preservatives. It is available in Vanilla, Chocolate and Lemon Ice.

This product was originally developed and is approved as an option for the school beverage program for the New York City Department of Education, which has established stringent standards for what can be served to its students in hopes of improving health and wellness. 2B Sparkling meets and exceeds these standards and has been providing healthy “bubbles” to these students via 2,500 vending machines.

The company recently decided to expand its distribution and bring its one-of-kind beverages to the masses at a $.99 suggested retail price.

“With many people kicking off the new year focused on health and fitness, we are pleased to offer a carbonated beverage option that delivers all the great taste and flavorof a traditional soda without the calories and artificial ingredients,” says Larry Trachtenbroit, co-founder, 2B. “We believe that consumers should not have to choose between what is healthy and what they can afford. So 2B Sparkling is priced at $.99 to give consumers an all-natural, low calorie, lightly sweetened beverage choice at a great price. And through our partnership with Rexam, we are able to bring it to market in a great-looking can.”

2B also benefits from the many inherent advantages of aluminumcans including portability, durability and sustainability.Aluminumcans are the most recycled beverage container in the world with a U.S. recycling rate of 67%, more than double the rate of other beverage packages.

Rich Grimley, president and CEO, Rexam BCNA, commented on how 2B’s choice of aluminumcan packaging will benefit its brand and business. “Our 12-ounce can draws attention on store shelves by providing the best in colorful, reflectivegraphics, as well as delivering superior recycling, filling, distribution and retail display economics.”