There are thousands of people who constantly consume energy drinks to keep up with their busy lives. Caffeine and other stimulating drinks have been helping with focus and improving energy levels. But did you ever wonder what the history of the world-famous Red Bull was?
Red Bull was created by a Thai duck farmer Chaleo Yoovidhya. He created the drink to serve as a hangover cure and was initially called Krating Daeng. An Austrian businessman, Dietrich Mateschitze, discovered the drink while on a business trip in 1987.
The History of Red Bull
While we know the brand to be Austrian, Red Bull actually has Asian roots. In 1987, Dietrich Mateschitze discovered the drink while he was in Thailand on a business trip. The drink was originally called Krating Daeng and was invented by a duck farmer named Chaleo Yoovidhya.
Mateschitze partnered with Yoovidhya and founded the Red Bull GmbH in the same year. They slightly modified the ingredients to best suit the taste of Westerners. Yoovidhya still kept Krating Daeng and is also a major stakeholder of the Red Bull brand. While both brands use the same sun and bull logos, they continued marketing the drinks separately in Thailand and internationally. (Source: The Guardian)
What is the Story Behind the Name?
Krating is a large species of wild bison, more commonly seen in India. Daeng means red. It wasn’t hard for Mateschitze to develop the drink’s English name, logo, and brand. Their international brand carried the slogan; Red Bull gives you wings. While their Thai slogan is translated to Target is for hit. (Source: Rewind and Capture)
What is Red Bull Made Of?
Red Bull is formulated according to the country you live in. It basically contains varying amounts of taurine, caffeine, B complex, sucrose, and glucose. These were buffered in a solution of carbonated water, baking soda, and magnesium carbonate.
There are sugar-free versions of the drink that is made with sweeteners like acesulfame K and aspartame.
Red Bull also has several flavors that range from various fruits like watermelon, peach, lime, and even dragon fruit. To more special variants like cola, ale, and even cactus. These editions are often limited to certain countries and may not always be available. (Source: Mashed)
What Happened to the Founders of Red Bull?
Dietrich Mateschitz is still active in the business scene at the age of 77. According to Forbes, he is currently at a net worth of $26.9 billion, thus making him one of the wealthiest people.
Unfortunately, the Thai billionaire Chaleo Yoovidhya passed away of natural causes in 2012 at 89. He, too, was ranked as one of the richest men globally as his net worth is estimated to be at $5 billion. (Source: Forbes)
Is Red Bull Good for You?
While there have been several controversies behind energy drink consumption, actual studies show no serious health hazards associated with consuming the Red Bull brand.
Although too much Red Bull can increase your heart rate and blood pressure, it’s a matter of making the right choices. Moderation is key. (Source: Medical News Today)