High Performance Beverage has announced plans to develop, produce and market a new line of hemp protein sports drinks, called 5 Star Protein Sports Drink.

The new sports drink will target athletes. The company said that the drink is being developed for use during and immediately after intense workouts and competition.

High Performance Beverage claimed that 5 Star Protein Sports Drink will provide a non-genetically modified organism (GMO) clean plant-based source of protein, 20 amino acids including branched-chain amino acids (BCAA), Omega 3&6 heart healthy fatty acids, and linolenic acid (GLA).

"This new line of hemp infused protein sports drinks systematically addresses every concern our competitive athletes were looking for."

The hemp protein and BCAA combination will provide better endurance levels and faster recovery times. The inclusion of edistin and albumin, present in hemp protein, will enable better protein absorption by the muscles. It will also increase metabolism, encourage lean muscle development, diminish sugar cravings, improve heart health, and boost the immune system, along with providing hydration and mental focus.

The company also intends to add hemp cannabidol (CBD) to its formula to make use of its anti-inflammatory effects. This will help athletes suffering from muscle soreness, and help their recovery and growth phases.

High Performance Beverage chief executive officer Toby McBride said: "Our athletes spoke and we listened. This new line of hemp infused protein sports drinks systematically addresses every concern our competitive athletes were looking for.

"When we embarked on this new journey, we sourced through every protein source available and were surprised to find that hemp protein is truly one of the finest and most complete protein sources available for the body.

"However, unlike whey, casein, rice and soy proteins, we believe that hemp protein offers a 100% natural plant based source of protein that is most similar to the proteins that our body produces ensuring better absorption and effects.

"Knowing this, we feel that we have developed a first of its kind multifaceted sports drink that meets the demands of competitive and endurance athletes."

The new hemp infused drink will undergo a flavour phase and is expected to be available in the market during the first quarter of 2017.