The drinks range contain Orafti's Beneo brand, inulin and oligofructose ingredients - non-digestible soluble fibres derived from chicory root that are said to ferment in the gut and promote the growth of good bacteria.
This prebiotic activity contributes to the "absorption of essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals and the formation of a protective barrier against intestinal infections," said Christine Nicolay, marketing and communications manager for the Orafti Group.
Jules Birch, founder and marketing director of Works With Water Nutraceuticals, told NutraIngredients.com that the company worked closely with DKSH and Orafti for two years, and the products carry the Beneo label on the packaging.
"Our association with Beneo and use of the symbol on all our packaging ensures that the consumer has confidence in our products and can easily identify the positive health benefits," said Birch.
The launch of the Works With Water range marks Orafti's expansion beyond its four established markets in Spain, Belgium, Switzerland and Italy.
"We are delighted to be part of the UK launch of the Beneo information, education & marketing programme that has proved so successful throughout Europe," said Birch.
The range of drinks in the Works With Water brand is targeted to attract the majority of the population.
Little Squirts for children and Delicate Balance for women are claimed to offer a prebiotic benefit. Eau Man and Water of Life contain soluble dietary fibre. Eau so Cool and Aqua Family are said to include a formulation that is clinically proven to optimise calcium absorption by almost 20 per cent.
The UK launch is in keeping with a global trend for functional bottled water.
According to Euromonitor, the global functional bottled water market has doubled from €1200m (£816m) in 2000 to €2400m (£1633m) in 2004.
"Formulating soft, non-carbonated drinks and bottled waters with Beneo inulin and oligofructose offers a great number of new product development opportunities to drinks manufacturers. These versatile ingredients present a range of nutritional benefits that have a healthy influence on the body," said Nicolay.
Available flavours include rhubarb and strawberry, lemon ginger and chilli, cranberry and lime or strawberry and vanilla. The range is preservative-free and all the waters are said to contain only 10 calories per 500ml serving.
The drinks are available throughout the UK, with recommended retail prices of £0.59 (€0.87) for 330ml, £0.79 (€1.16) for 500ml and £1.65 (€2.42) for 1.5L.