Blake’s Hard Cider (BHC) announced the debut of Sorta Pop probiotic soda, the first non-alcohol beverage in the brand’s 10-year history.

The new line of low-calorie, low-sugar carbonated probiotic sodas are set to hit Southeast Michigan independent retailers in mid-January, just in time for health-conscious resolutions and Dry January, the company says.

Sorta Pop is available in three flavors — Tangerine, Strawberry-Watermelon-Cucumber, and Lemon Lime — all made with real fruit. The “better-for-you” beverage is free of gluten and caffeine, with 25 calories or less, and only 3 to 6 grams of sugar from the addition of monk fruit, the company notes. The new beverages are packed with more than a million probiotics in each 12-ounce can, which might support digestive balance and gut health, it says.

“Coming from Blake’s 77-years [of] experience growing, picking and pressing our harvest, exploring a healthy, alternative beverage made with real fruit is a natural extension for us,” said Chelsea Cox, BHC director of marketing and product development, in a statement. “As consumers become more selective and educated in their beverage choices, that shift makes way for a ‘better-for-you’ beverage like Sorta Pop that delivers great flavor, bubbles, plus health benefits.”

Available in single-serve 12-ounce cans, Sorta Pop can be purchased for a suggested retail price of $2.49, with expanded distribution planned for spring to chain store retailers in Southeast Michigan, it says.

www.sortapop.com