Summary:
- Saudi Arabia has launched Milaf Cola, the world’s first soft drink made from dates, at the Riyadh Date Festival.
- Developed by Thurath Al-Madina, Milaf Cola contains no added sugar and offers health benefits from its date-based ingredients.
- The drink supports sustainable production and aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 for economic diversification.
- Milaf Cola aims to expand internationally, redefining dates as a trendy ingredient in beverages.
Saudi Arabia has introduced a groundbreaking beverage, Milaf Cola, which is touted as the world’s first soft drink made from dates. This innovative product was unveiled at the Riyadh Date Festival by Thurath Al-Madina, a subsidiary of the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund. The launch event was attended by Bander Al-Qahtani, CEO of Thurath Al-Madina, and Abdulrahman Al-Fadley, the Saudi Agriculture Minister.
Milaf Cola distinguishes itself from traditional sodas by using premium dates as its primary ingredient instead of corn syrup or cane sugar. This choice not only taps into the rich nutritional profile of dates—which are high in fiber, antioxidants, magnesium, and potassium—but also aligns with the growing consumer demand for healthier beverage options. The drink contains no added sugars, positioning it as a healthier alternative to conventional sugary sodas without sacrificing flavor.
The introduction of Milaf Cola is part of a larger initiative within Saudi Arabia to promote sustainable and locally sourced products, in line with the country’s Vision 2030 program. This program emphasizes economic diversification and sustainable development. By utilizing locally sourced dates, Milaf Cola supports local agriculture and reduces environmental impact, thus contributing to eco-friendly manufacturing practices.
Festival attendees have praised Milaf Cola for its unique taste, describing it as both familiar and refreshingly distinct. One attendee remarked that drinking it was akin to “drinking sunshine,” highlighting the beverage’s appealing flavor profile.
Thurath Al-Madina has ambitious plans for Milaf Cola, aiming to expand its market reach both regionally and internationally. The company hopes to redefine global perceptions of dates from being merely a traditional snack to a trendy and versatile ingredient in modern beverages. A spokesperson for the company stated, “Milaf Cola is just the beginning. We are working on a variety of products that will revolutionize how dates are consumed globally.”
This innovative product not only sets a new standard for health-focused soft drinks but also enhances Saudi Arabia’s reputation in the global food and beverage market by showcasing the potential of local ingredients in creating sustainable and nutritious products.
Source: India Times
