USA: AB InBev to release Bud Light Lemon Tea

Anheuser-Busch (AB InBev) is preparing to release Bud Light Lemon Tea after its new labelling received approval from the federal authorities, the Drinks Insight Network reported on February 20.

The new label describes the product as ‘lager brewed with real lemon peels and aged on tea leaves with natural flavours’. It was approved by the federal Alcohol Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau for 25oz cans and 12oz bottles.

AB InBev listed all 12 of its US breweries in the application.

Similarly to previous Bud Light extensions such as Bud Light Lime and Bud Light Orange, Bud Light Lemon Tea will be offered with 4.2% alcohol-by-volume (ABV).

According to the company’s website, the Bud Light line extensions use hop extracts, including orange, lime, platinum and chelada extra lime.

Shipments of Bud Light are reported to have dropped by 6.7% in 2018, despite the success of Bud Light Orange, which was released last year. According to Beer Marketer’s Insights, it was the largest percentage decline on record.

MillerCoors editorial communications manager Peter Frost said in order to get the brand back on track, AB InBev seems to be taking a two-pronged approach; continue filling its distribution pipeline with line extensions and go after its competitors.

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