Culture Pop x Noah Kahan Sparkling Black Cherry Probiotic Soda
Culture Pop expands its probiotic soda lineup with Sparkling Black Cherry, a collaborative release with musician Noah Kahan’s The Busyhead Project. Staying true to the brand’s better-for-you positioning, the soda is sweetened exclusively with juice, contains 18 percent juice, 45 calories, and no added sugar (8 grams of sugar from juice). The result is a lighter-bodied, modern take on classic black cherry soda that balances nostalgia with restraint, supported by a polished limited-edition design that fits cleanly within the Culture Pop portfolio.
Things that stand out:
- The black cherry flavor delivers a familiar, soda-inspired profile without drifting into syrupy or artificial territory. It is crisp, lightly sweet, and refreshing, making it easy to drink while still feeling indulgent enough to replace traditional soda.
- Sweetening exclusively with juice and avoiding non-nutritive sweeteners reinforces Culture Pop’s core brand promise. The formulation feels intentional and well-balanced, especially for a low-calorie offering.
- The shiny silver differentiates this SKU from the rest of the lineup while maintaining strong brand recognition. Subtle musical elements and the cherry-as-lettermark add personality without clutter.
- The Noah Kahan collaboration is handled with restraint, supporting the story and associated mental health initiative without overpowering the Culture Pop brand hierarchy.
Things to consider:
- Consumers expecting a bold, candy-like black cherry soda may find the flavor too restrained compared to mainstream options. The lighter body is a strength, but it narrows the audience slightly.
- The charitable tie-in and collaboration messaging are understated, which could limit its impact at shelf for shoppers unfamiliar with the partnership.
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Loonen Spring-Sourced Purified Water
Loonen is a recently launched bottled water brand offering a disruptive concept: spring-sourced and purified water in a 750 milliliter glass bottle, available in still and sparkling. The brand clearly targets the ultra premium segment through its purity claims and elevated presentation.
Otherwise, the focus here is clearly to bring a refined, but approachable product and this is apparent from the packaging to mouthfeel. Loonen delivers a polished first impression that aligns well with its positioning.
Things that stand out:
- The custom glass bottle feels premium and intentional. The wavy ridges (resembling a water current) near the base add visual and tactical appeal while also improving grip. It is a functional design detail that enhances the overall experience.
- The label is minimalist and tasteful, using a restrained color palette and simple illustration of a loon. It avoids clutter and communicates calm, premium branding. The look fits well in upscale retail or hospitality settings.
- The water drinks soft and smooth, with a clean, neutral profile. Glass packaging helps eliminate any plastic interference in flavor, which is definitely an advantage.
- Third party verification for BPA free and PFAS free claims supports the brand’s purity narrative. These credentials add credibility for informed shoppers and they reinforce the idea of careful sourcing and processing.
Things to consider:
- Still and sparkling bottles are difficult to distinguish at a glance. The primary difference is limited to the text on the label. Clearer visual separation would reduce consumer confusion.
- The line is currently limited to a single 750 milliliter glass format. While appropriate as a flagship size, it limits flexibility for different occasions. Smaller sizes or additional formats could broaden appeal.
- PFAS free messaging may be lost on less informed consumers. Awareness of PFAS issues is still developing. Additional education could help this benefit resonate more strongly.
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