Saint James Iced Tea is entering the functional beverage category with the launch of Saint James Yerba Mate, a new certified organic line designed to provide consumers with a higher-caffeine alternative to the brand's existing ready-to-drink tea portfolio.

The launch marks Saint James' first move beyond organic iced tea and comes as the company continues to expand its retail footprint across the US and Canada.

Available in Mango Passionfruit, Raspberry Lemon and Strawberry Tangerine, each 16oz bottle contains 150mg of natural caffeine, between 20 and 25 calories, and 3-4g of sugar.

The beverages are certified organic and non-GMO, with yerba mate sourced from South America. The drinks also contain naturally occurring compounds including polyphenols and theobromine, alongside caffeine, positioning the range within the growing market for functional and energy-focused beverages.

Brenden Cohen, co-founder and co-CEO of Saint James Iced Tea, said: “Our consumers already turn to Saint James as part of their daily routine, so creating a more functional option was the next logical step. Saint James Yerba Mate delivers the same quality and taste our customers expect from us, now with a more substantial amount of natural caffeine.”

The new line introduces a more distinctive visual identity for Saint James, with green and chrome packaging for its recyclable and resealable aluminium bottles.

The three-strong flavour range is designed to combine fruit-forward profiles with the natural caffeine credentials of yerba mate: Mango Passionfruit, Raspberry Lemon and Strawberry Tangerine.

Saint James said the new product maintains its focus on clean-label and organic ingredients while offering a more functional proposition for consumers seeking sustained energy throughout the day.

Saint James Yerba Mate is available now online in 12-packs priced at $39.99, with retail distribution set to expand through Kroger and Albertsons banners.