At Sidekick Soda, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. That’s why we’re proud to work with the New Zealand Cherry Rescue Project, an initiative that transforms “perfectly imperfect” cherries into products that shine—just like our Cherry Sidekick Soda.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗿𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁?
The Cherry Rescue Project was launched by the New Zealand Cherry Corporation with a bold vision: to eliminate waste in the cherry industry by 2030. This initiative addresses a common problem—cherries that don’t meet cosmetic standards are often discarded, despite being just as delicious and nutritious as their export-grade counterparts. These cherries, marked by superficial imperfections that don’t affect their taste or quality, find a new life through the Rescue Project.
𝗭𝗲𝗿𝗼 𝗪𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲 𝗜𝗻 𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
Each season, approximately 22,000 pounds of cherries are saved and repurposed for initiatives like Sidekick Soda. The Project’s long-term goal is to rescue 4,000 tons of cherries by 2030, contributing to a waste-free cherry industry in New Zealand.
“Products like Sidekick Soda will increase awareness for the fantastic possibilities of repurposed cherries,” says Reece van der Velden, General Manager of the Cherry Rescue Project. This groundbreaking initiative not only reduces waste but also highlights the potential of sustainable practices to create delicious, value-added products.
𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗦𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗸𝗶𝗰𝗸
Sidekick Soda’s Cherry flavor is a testament to the power of sustainability. Using cherries sourced from Central Otago—a region responsible for 95% of New Zealand’s export cherries—we’re able to craft a soda that’s both flavorful and environmentally friendly.
These rescued cherries receive the same care as export-grade fruit, ensuring top-notch flavor and quality. By incorporating them into our beverages, we’re reducing food waste while creating something delicious for you to enjoy. The rescued cherries give our Cherry Sidekick Soda its vibrant, natural flavor—a true taste of New Zealand in every sip.
You can try our Cherry Sidekick Soda and the rest of our delicious flavors by visiting our shop page.
𝗕𝗲𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀
The Cherry Rescue Project’s impact goes beyond just cherries. It serves as a model for how the food industry can minimize waste and create value from products that might otherwise be discarded. This philosophy aligns perfectly with our mission at Sidekick Soda to craft beverages that are better for you and the planet.
𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗔 𝗗𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲
Every time you enjoy a Cherry Sidekick Soda, you’re supporting the Cherry Rescue Project and its mission to reduce waste. Together, we’re proving that sustainability and deliciousness can go hand in hand.
Want to learn more about the Cherry Rescue Project? Visit their website at nzcherrycorp.com/rescue-project and discover how they’re changing the cherry industry for the better.
𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗔 𝗪𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲-𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲
At Sidekick Soda, we’re proud to stand alongside the Cherry Rescue Project in their commitment to sustainability. By turning rescued cherries into something extraordinary, we’re not only reducing waste but also raising a toast to a brighter, more sustainable future. So pop open a Cherry Sidekick Soda and join us in making a difference—one sip at a time.