In American sports, the term “three-peat” refers to winning three consecutive championships. In the beverage world, the bottled water category achieved its “three-peat” by remaining the No. 1 packaged beverage in the United States by volume, according to the Alexandria, Va.-based International Bottled Water Association (IBWA).

Recent statistics from New York-based Beverage Marketing Corporation (BMC) show that 69 percent of the growth in bottled water consumption stems from people shifting away from carbonated soft drinks (CSDs) and fruit drinks, said IBWA in a May press release.

As consumers are shifting away from sugary alternatives, they are beginning to venture into the land of plant waters, experts say.

“Many consumers want beverage options that are hydrating and taste good, but are healthier than traditional CSDs or juices with high-sugar content,” says Holly McHugh, marketing associate at Imbibe, Niles, Ill. “Plant waters tend to be high in electrolytes and various vitamins and minerals depending on the source and since they come from plants, the perception is that they are all natural and better for you.”

Read the full article in Beverage Industry.