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The CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI) has unveiled a new herbal soft drink named ‘Pio,’ marking a significant stride in health-oriented beverages. Unlike conventional sodas, Pio is entirely plant-based, free from artificial sweeteners and caffeine, while retaining the fizz and taste that consumers expect from soft drinks.
The journey to Pio’s creation began nearly a decade ago when NBRI first attempted to develop a herbal soft drink. Despite initial setbacks and tough competition from multinational beverage giants, the institute’s scientists persevered. Their relentless efforts have culminated in a product that offers a healthy alternative without compromising on flavor. Notably, Pio contains no preservatives and has a shelf life of four months.
Union Science and Technology Minister, Jitendra Singh, has endorsed Pio, which is marketed with the tagline “Pio Herbal, Jio Har Pal” (Drink Herbal, Live Every Moment). This endorsement underscores the government’s support for innovative health solutions.
“Soft drinks are consumed by people of all ages, from children to the elderly,” said NBRI Director Ajit Kumar Shasany. “There was an urgent need to replace these unhealthy drinks with healthier options. Our team of scientists conducted an in-depth study to develop scientifically validated and standardized health beverages fortified with specific health-promoting functional attributes.”
Pio’s formulation is based on traditional knowledge, incorporating extracts of herbs such as liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), heart-leaved moonseed (giloy), Ashwagandha, punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa), common grapevine, and cardamom. These extracts are expertly blended with carbonated water to ensure the drink tastes similar to synthetic soft drinks on the market. To manage the natural bitterness of the plant-based extracts, the sugar content is kept to a minimum.
“Pio contains no alcohol, cocoa, or other synthetic chemicals,” Shasany added, highlighting the product’s natural and health-oriented composition. “It has been successfully evaluated for its efficacy, offering a unique blend of modern nutraceutical concepts with traditional knowledge.”
The herbal extracts used in Pio provide various health benefits, including hepatoprotective, antioxidant, immuno-enhancing, cardio-tonic, diuretic, and digestive properties. The technology and process behind Pio have been patented, ensuring the integrity and uniqueness of this innovative beverage.
The technology for producing Pio has been transferred to a private company, which will handle its commercial production and distribution. Sandip Vyas, the managing director of the company, expressed confidence in Pio’s potential to replace other synthetic soft drinks. “We have undertaken all the necessary tests to ensure its production and efficacy,” Vyas stated, emphasizing the rigorous standards met by this herbal soft drink.
With Pio’s launch, CSIR-NBRI aims to revolutionize the soft drink market by offering a healthier alternative that caters to the growing consumer demand for natural and health-promoting beverages.
