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In a step back from sugar-free, an Aussie company is launching a new range of low-calorie sodas that has a small amount of sugar instead of sugar replacements.

Melbourne-based StrangeLove has expanded its range of premium tonic waters, organic soft drinks and mineral waters to include a lineup of sodas made without sweetener additives.

A small amount of sugar, around 3.5g/100ml, is included in the Lo-Cal Sodas that are formulated with a recipe that uses extracts, juices and oils for flavours.

StrangeLove says it took a different approach with the new Lo-Cal Sodas made without stevia, xylitol and erythritol.

“All other reduced-sugar or low-sugar sodas compromise flavour for health, we didn't, StrangeLove co-founder James Bruce said. “We've cracked it and created a healthier soda that is unparalleled in terms of flavour.”

The new sodas join a range of premium mixers launched last year that includes four tonic waters and a dry ginger ale.

“Our experience developing premium mixer products gave us a big edge here. Having developed relationships with some of the best ingredient producers around the world, we developed this project using distilled botanicals and extracts that you typically wouldn't find in a commercial soft drink,” Bruce said.

StrangeLove Lo-Cal Soda flavours include Double Ginger, Yuzu from Japan, Holy Grapefruit, Cloudy Pear & Cinnamon, Lemon Squash, Smoked Cola and Very Mandarin.

Available from David Jones, selected Dan Murphy's and Coles, four bottles of 300ml Lo-Cal Sodas are RRP $11.99.

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