These Lesser-Known Facts About Red Bull Will Help You Better Understand The Brand

The world today is obsessed with energy drinks, and needless to say Red Bull is at the top of the category, enjoying insane patronage across the globe. However, Red Bull didn’t get to be so big with just making the energy drink. The company has had a very interesting journey. These lesser-known facts will help you understand the brand better.

Red Bull’s Not Austrian: While it is common assumption that Red Bull originated in Austria, the beverage had its birthplace across the world in Thailand. Red Bull’s original inventor, Chaleo Yoovidhya concocted a tonic that had a more humble purpose: Chaleo’s drink was meant to help factory workers and truck drivers stay alert. Interestingly, the drink was originally called as Krating Daeng, which is Thai for Red Bull.

Via The Independent

Born In Thailand But Grew-Up In Austria: It is forgiven to assume Red Bull began its iconic journey from Austria. But what is true is that the beverage spread its wings from the region. Dietrich Mateschitz, an enthusiastic Austrian salesman, accidentally discovered the drink on a sales trip to Asia. Sensing he had stumbled upon a game-changing product, he partnered up with Chaleo. Working day and night, the duo introduced Red Bull to the mainstream global market.

Via Business Insider

The Pioneer Of Energy Drinks: Prior to Red Bull, there were no energy drinks. While sports drinks like Gatorade did exist at that time, they were being sold as “replenishments” or “refreshing re-hydrating and revitalizing drinks.” Red Bull created an entirely new market segment of the reinvigorating “energy drink.” Interestingly, though Red Bull was globally launched in 1987, it took over a decade for the drink to reach American shores.

Image Credit | Essentials of Nutrition

Red Bull Skirted Cocaine Controversy: While it is common knowledge that that Red Bull contains coca extracts, in 2009, Germany temporarily banned Red Bull after trace amounts of cocaine were found. However, Red Bull reaffirmed the world they only used de-cocainized coca leaf extracts, which several companies use. The company went on to prove that a human being would need to ingest over 100,000 liters of the product to get the effect, cocaine had on the body.

Via Examiner

Expensive F1 Victory: Red Bull has enjoyed immense success on the Formula 1 circuit. However, after winning both best driver and best team in 2012, they had to buy a second team to fit their roster.

Via Referral Candy

Red Bull Supports Spinal Cord Research: Under the non-profit organization “Wings for Life,” Red Bull funds and supports spinal cord research. Using their “World Run” event, which spans six continents, 33 countries, and 35 tracks, the company, is easily able to cover all the expenses for the organization.

Via Nature

Red Bull Invented An All-Natural Cola: Sensing they could enter the carbonated sweetened beverage market, Red Bull decided to come-up with “Red Bull Cola.” However, the company promises their drink is 100 percent natural – no preservatives, artificial colors, nothing.

Over the years, Red Bull has sold more than 40 billion cans. However, quite a few of those shipments are indirectly helping militants as well. Nonetheless, the company with a rather humble beginning has proven that with the right mix of product and publicity, any company can make it big.

[Featured Image Credit | AFP – Getty Images]