Artificial intelligence has become a prominent force in today’s world. While some individuals express concerns over the potential “existential risk” associated with this technology, others remain optimistic. Vivi Kola, a long-standing Swiss cola maker, falls into the latter group and has embraced artificial intelligence to develop its latest product, Vivi Nova.
The inspiration to utilize AI in beverage development came after experimenting with OpenAI’s chatbot, ChatGPT. This natural language processing tool creates conversational dialogue that closely resembles human interaction. Excited by the possibilities, the Vivi Kola team leveraged AI tools to rapidly create a low-sugar, vegan soda with health benefits. Remarkably, this feat was achieved within a mere two days.
The initial steps involved requesting ChatGPT to develop a vegan recipe using ingredients known for their health benefits. The provided response included water, lime juice, haskap berry juice, ginger juice, chicory root powder, and cane sugar. The team was awestruck by the suggestions. ChatGPT stated that the drink would contain antioxidants, fortify the immune system, support a healthy gut, and aid digestion.
ChatGPT explained the distinct benefits of each ingredient. “Haskap berries are known for their high antioxidant content, reducing inflammation and protecting against cell damage. They are also rich in vitamins C and K, boosting immunity and promoting healthy bones,” noted ChatGPT. “Lime juice is rich in vitamin C, supporting immune function and protecting against oxidative stress. Additionally, it contains flavonoids, linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases. Chicory root powder is a prebiotic fiber that promotes healthy gut bacteria, digestion, and has shown effectiveness in lowering inflammation and blood sugar.”
Duly impressed, the Vivi Kola team acquired the ingredients, combined them, and conducted taste tests. The initial feedback was positive.
To determine a suitable name for the new beverage, the team once again turned to AI. In line with Vivi Kola’s portfolio, they sought a four-letter word. ChatGPT proposed various options, including Vivi-Life, Tron, Best, Fuel, Tide, Luxe, Plex, Tone, and Nova. The team enthusiastically settled on “Vivi Nova.” ChatGPT responded, stating, “Great choice! Vivi Nova is a catchy and unique brand name that could potentially attract customers interested in trying a healthy and refreshing craft soda.”
For the label design, Vivi Kola sought the input of generative AI bot Midjourney and 3D creation tool Unreal Engine. Starting from a seemingly mundane image of a haskap berry, the AI tools transformed it into a detailed, futuristic illustration used for Vivi Nova’s label.
Impressed by AI’s capability to recognize current trends and generate creative content, Vivi Kola’s managing director, Camilo Antezana, remarked, “Although artificial intelligence is an exciting aid, it cannot replace people at the moment.”
Vivi Nova is now available at Swiss retail giant Migros, and Vivi Kola plans to stock the soda at its sister company ViCAFE starting this month.
(Article updated 14/6/23 with input from ChatGPT conversation and Vivi Kola-sourced images.)
