Lifeway Foods introduced Muscle Mates, a ready-to-drink functional beverage that pairs 20 grams of protein with 5 grams of creatine and Lifeway's 12 live and active probiotic cultures.

Set to hit shelves in grocery stores, fitness centers and select retailers nationwide by year-end, Muscle Mates delivers a powerful trifecta:

• Protein – builds and repairs muscle
• Creatine – enhances strength, endurance, recovery and cognitive performance
• Probiotics – support gut health and digestion

"Muscle Mates is an exciting step forward in functional nutrition," said Julie Smolyansky, CEO of Lifeway Foods. "Our goal is to bring together the best of performance and wellness by offering support for strength, recovery, focus and gut health in one convenient and great-tasting format. We see opportunities to serve a wide range of consumers, from athletes and fitness enthusiasts to those simply looking to support their overall well-being. I am particularly eager to highlight creatine's emerging relevance for women, as more are exploring its potential role in energy, performance and healthy aging."

Launch flavors include Mixed Berry, Strawberry Banana and Vanilla, each crafted to be smooth, satisfying and full of flavor. Every 8oz bottle is portable and protein packed, making it the perfect choice for fueling up before a workout, recovering afterward or supporting strength and gut health anytime. Muscle Mates is expected to begin shipping to retailers nationwide in Q4, with new flavors and formats currently in development.