CytoSport Inc., Benicia, Calif., debuted the first organic line for its Muscle Milk brand of ready-to-drink (RTD) protein shakes. Available in Chocolate and Vanilla flavors, Muscle Milk Organic protein shakes are available exclusively at Target stores nationwide and online at target.com in four-packs of 8.25-ounce cartons. Each RTD shake contains 15 grams of United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) certified-organic protein and 120 calories without any gluten.

“We constantly strive to remain on the forefront of product innovation, and we recognize the demand in the marketplace for organic product options,” said CytoSport Chief Marketing Officer Nikki Brown in a statement. “The Muscle Milk brand has always appealed to a wide range of consumers — men, women, active lifestylists, fitness enthusiasts, weekend warriors and professional athletes — and the organic line meets the workout recovery and snack needs for protein users across the entire spectrum. Muscle Milk Organic will also serve as a fantastic protein option to educate new users on the importance of protein in one’s daily nutrition routine.”

Sweetened with organic cane sugar and organic stevia, Muscle Milk Organic also is low in saturated fat and cholesterol, the company says.

This new product release follows the company’s announcement earlier this month that Hormel Foods Corp., Austin, Minn., has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire CytoSport Holdings Inc. for approximately $450 million. The deal includes the Muscle Milk brand of shelf-stable, ready-to-drink protein beverages; a manufacturing facility in Benicia, Calif.; as well as several manufacturing and distribution agreements both domestically and abroad, according to Hormel Foods.