The wellness and functional food market is growing rapidly, with consumers increasingly looking for natural energy boosters in convenient formats like gummies. However, many brands lack the resources to develop unique products from scratch, creating an opportunity for white-label solutions. Yerba mate, a caffeine-rich herbal tea popular in South America, offers natural energy benefits but is rarely available in gummy form. One way to address this gap could be to produce white-label yerba mate gummies that brands can easily customize and sell under their own labels.

Addressing the Market Gap

Many small to mid-sized wellness brands focus on marketing and customer relationships but lack the capacity for in-house product development. A turnkey solution—yerba mate gummies in customizable flavors, shapes, and optional add-ins (like vitamins or adaptogens)—could help these brands expand their offerings without heavy R&D or manufacturing investments. Retailers and consumers would also benefit, as the product provides a convenient, natural energy source in an accessible format.

How It Could Work

The process might involve sourcing high-quality yerba mate extract, formulating gummies for optimal taste and texture, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. Brands could then rebrand the gummies with their packaging and marketing. Potential revenue streams could include bulk sales, customization fees for unique flavors or additives, and subscription models for recurring orders. Stakeholder incentives include:

• Brands: Access to a market-ready product with minimal upfront cost.
• Manufacturer: Economies of scale through bulk production for multiple brands.
• Consumers: More variety in convenient, natural energy products.

Standing Out from Existing Solutions

While companies like Olly sell energy gummies directly to consumers, this idea focuses on white-labeling for other brands. Unlike generic supplement manufacturers, specializing in yerba mate could fill a niche in the natural energy market. Traditional yerba mate brands (e.g., Guayakí) don’t offer gummies, so this format could modernize consumption for new audiences.

An MVP might involve small-batch production, taste testing, and a pilot launch with select brands to refine the product before scaling. Early collaboration with flavor experts and legal advisors could help overcome challenges like taste masking and regulatory compliance.