Crystal Light Vodka Refreshers set to join hard seltzer market

When one thinks of Kraft Heinz, ketchup — not alcohol — usually comes to mind. Until now.

Crystal Light Vodka Refreshers are launching this month in two flavors: Wild Strawberry and Lemonade. Packs of four will be $9.99 at select retailers in the Northeast U.S. region.

Crystal Light is one of Kraft Heinz’ 37 brands. The company has co-headquarters in Pittsburgh and Chicago, since the merger in 2015.

Almost 40% of hard seltzer drinkers prefer lower-alcohol options of under 4% ABV, Kraft Heinz said, and the new Crystal Light Vodka Refreshers will have an ABV of 3.8%.

Just like original Crystal Light powder mix, the refreshers are zero-sugar, and will each be 77 calories, which Kraft Heinz said is the lowest-calorie ready-to-drink cocktail on the market.

Nearly 1 in 5 consumers of Crystal Light use the product as a mixer for their cocktails, according to Kraft Heinz.

“With tens of millions of social media videos showcasing creative ways to mix Crystal Light into cocktails, creating a delicious lower-calorie vodka refresher was a natural step for us,” said Jeremy Kross, director of beverage mixes at Kraft Heinz.

The new Crystal Light Vodka Refreshers will be somewhat fizzy — with light carbonation, Kraft Heinz said.

“We’re bringing fans a ready-to-drink version in a new format — now with a light, refreshing twist — offering the same signature flavors they know and love,” Kross said.

In 2026, Kraft Heinz said there are plans for a larger expansion of the vodka refreshers, with new flavors and multipack options to come.