The $64 billion functional drink boom has found its next target: kids

Mere decades ago, children would quench their thirst with sugary, neon-colored Hi-C, Kool-Aid, and Capri Sun, and in more desperate moments, even the backyard garden hose was sufficient. But recently, there’s been a proliferation of new children-focused beverage innovations from mainstay brands like Kraft Heinz’s Capri Sun and Kool-Aid and Nestlé’s Gerber, as well as startups founded by Jennifer Garner, the actress, and Michelle Obama, the former first lady, that come with stronger hydration and electrolyte claims. These drinks are frequently made with more natural ingredients and are free of artificial dyes and sweeteners, but retain popular kid flavors like tropical punch and berries. [Photo: Once Upon A Farm] This week, Garner’s organic children’s nutrition company Once Upon a Farm debuts a new lineup of refrigerated pouches called Electrolyte Blends in flavors like strawberry kiwi and guava strawberry. The launch comes mere weeks after Gerber unveiled a rehydration-focused line called Gerberlyte. Capri Sun’s electrolyte-focused Hydrate line and Kool-Aid’s electrolyte packets launched earlier this year. These brands are aiming their better-for-you hydration products at Generati…