RAIZIN SWEETY RED

Posted on July 17, 2020 | Last updated February 8, 2025

Released on July 21, 2020, the latest addition to the RAIZIN series, "RAIZIN SWEETY RED," debuts as a limited-edition summer product.

RAIZIN SWEETY RED

Manufacturer	Taisho seiyaku
Country of Origin	Japan
Price	190 JPY
Flavor	Watermelon
Total rating	★★☆☆☆

Author information Author: Energy Drink-kun

In 2001, while living in the United States, I encountered energy drinks through the dance scene and was deeply impressed. After returning to Japan, I found that energy drinks were considered novelty beverages, so I established a comprehensive website in 2013 to share the true appeal of energy drinks. As an energy drink enthusiast, I began drinking them seriously again, collecting over 7,000 varieties of energy drinks from various countries. I am also active as a critic and expert, receiving media interviews.

Flavor of RAIZIN SWEETY RED

RAIZIN SWEETY RED
Upon opening, a sweet aroma reminiscent of watermelon popsicles or melon soda bursts out. The bright red liquid also gives off an artificial watermelon-like impression.

When you take a sip, a rich and artificial sweetness similar to a concentrated watermelon popsicle spreads alongside the cooling sensation of erythritol. There's no excessive sourness or chemical aftertaste—just a sweet watermelon popsicle flavor refined with artificial sweeteners and flavoring. The aftertaste is clean and doesn't linger.

Many people might find themselves thinking, "This artificial sweetness tastes familiar... but where have I had it before?" It's the kind of flavor that reminds you of something from a juice, candy, or ice cream you've had before.

RAIZIN SWEETY RED
Of course, RAIZIN’s signature ginger extract is included. If you're particularly sensitive to spiciness like Dorin-kun, you might feel a slight tingling sensation in your throat when drinking it at room temperature. However, under normal circumstances, you should be able to enjoy the sweet watermelon popsicle flavor without noticing the ginger’s kick. Chilling it thoroughly is highly recommended.

Energy Ingredients of RAIZIN SWEETY RED

RAIZIN SWEETY RED
Contains 1,035 mg of galangal extract (equivalent to 150 mg of EnXtra). This includes ginger extract, a key feature of the RAIZIN series.

RAIZIN SWEETY RED
EnXtra was introduced in 2020 when RAIZIN returned to the energy drink market as an alternative to caffeine. While it's marketed as a new energy-boosting ingredient derived from the ginger family, its actual effects remain unclear. Rather than expecting a specific boost, it’s best to just enjoy the flavor of SWEETY RED.

Design of RAIZIN SWEETY RED

The gradient from red to pink, the logo, and the white radar chart create a simple design. Interestingly, the white square on the front differs in shape from those found on the RAIZIN HARD GINGER and RAIZIN FRUITY THUNDER.

At first glance, it's unclear what this chart represents. However, checking the official website finally provides some insight. It turns out that RAIZIN SWEETY RED’s square represents "mild spiciness, strong sweetness, and a refreshing yet rich flavor."

RAIZIN SWEETY RED
The lack of an energy drink-style "poem" on the back is a plus, but since only the bare minimum product information is provided, the overall design remains simple and refined. However, this minimalistic approach also means it’s not immediately clear what kind of brand it is or what flavor to expect. A brief explanation of the front chart might have been helpful.

RAIZIN SWEETY RED is a limited-edition summer release. A more elaborate design distinct from the regular lineup could have made it feel even more special, making it more eye-catching on store shelves.

Starting in late June 2020, RAIZIN opened a long-term open space in Omotesando called RAIZIN R-ban Omotesando Park, set to run for a full year. This hints that more new releases might be on the way. Let's look forward to what RAIZIN comes up with next!