Autumn Shelton, a former cannabis industry executive based in Santa Barbara, has launched TruBond, a ready-to-mix functional drink formulated with adaptogens and nootropics designed to support sustained energy, mental clarity, and social presence. The product combines brain-boosting mushrooms with prebiotic fiber and premium botanicals. It mixes with still or sparkling water and targets occasions ranging from professional meetings to evening social events, positioning itself as an alternative to morning caffeine and evening alcohol.
The RTD segment continues to see opportunity in wellness-focused beverages that address ritual replacement and consumption habit shifts. TruBond enters a growing market of alcohol alternatives and caffeine-free energy products targeting consumers reconsidering their daily consumption habits.
"Many of the habits that we look to for energy, or even comfort in social situations, can eventually just lead to exhaustion and fogginess," Shelton said. "When I gave up alcohol, I wanted to create a natural alternative to support balanced energy, while also taking the edge off everyday life and helping people feel more present and connected. TruBond is an elevated ritual that is designed for everything from meetings to concert nights."
The formulation aims to deliver balanced energy without a crash, leveraging adaptogenic and nootropic compounds sourced from botanical ingredients in meaningful concentrations. The ready-to-mix format offers retail and foodservice partners flexibility in merchandising—competing directly with both non-alcoholic beverage and functional drink categories.
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Written by FBM Publications Editors