Functional beverage brand Koia has launched a plant-based protein and dairy-free drink with no excess sugar.

Koia is claimed to be one of the first refrigerated, ready-to-drink, 100% plant-based protein drinks range to retail in US.

According to the brand, the drink contains only plant-based ingredients and is soy-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, and non-genetically modified organism (GMO) and has no excess sugar or calories with five-to-one ratio of plant protein to sugar content.

"Koia was developed with the belief that people should expect more from their protein beverage."

Koia co-founder Dustin Baker said: "Koia was developed with the belief that people should expect more from their protein beverage.

"People looking for a healthier protein option shouldn't have to compromise on flavour or consume hidden calories, excess sugars or artificial ingredients.

"We're as conscious about what we put into Koia as what we keep out. The result is an honest, craveable beverage that people can actually feel good about."

The drink comes in Vanilla Bean, Cacao Bean and Coconut Almond flavours. It is available exclusively at Whole Foods Markets for $5.99.

A 12oz serving of Koia is conatins 16g-18g of plant-based protein and 5g-8g of natural fibre. The drink is formulated with a blend of rice, pea and hemp proteins.

Koia was founded in 2013 and intends to expand its distribution in the natural food channel in 2017, besides introducing new flavours.

Image: Koia-plant powered nutrition. Photo: Courtesy of PRNewsFoto/Koia