World Hunger Day is a pivotal occasion dedicated to raising awareness about the global issue of hunger and malnutrition. Observed on May 28th, this day calls for action and sustainable solutions to combat hunger, emphasizing the importance of health and nutrition in building resilient communities. At OLIPOP, we believe that everyone deserves access to nutritious food and beverages, which is why our mission aligns perfectly with the goals of World Hunger Day.

Learn more about World Hunger Day and join us as we continue our journey to enhance community health and nutrition, one sip at a time.

What Is World Hunger Day?

World Hunger Day, observed annually on May 28th, serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing struggle against hunger and malnutrition worldwide. This day, established by The Hunger Project in 2011, aims to inspire people around the globe to take action and contribute to sustainable solutions for ending hunger. It underscores the importance of empowering communities, improving nutrition, and fostering long-term self-reliance.

Hunger is a multifaceted issue that affects millions of people, including children, families, and the elderly. It’s not just about a lack of food but also about the quality and nutritional value of the available food. Malnutrition, which includes both undernutrition and obesity, can lead to severe health problems and hinder economic development. Addressing hunger requires a comprehensive approach that involves improving food security, enhancing nutritional quality, and supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

OLIPOP's Mission

At OLIPOP, we are deeply committed to these goals. Our mission is to provide delicious, nutritious beverages that support digestive health and overall well-being. We believe that by offering healthier alternatives to traditional sugary drinks, we can make a significant impact on community health. Our efforts to reduce sugar consumption and increase dietary fiber are just a part of our broader commitment to improving nutrition and food equity. 

We also aim to contribute to a better society by supporting initiatives focused on nutrition access and education, embracing the "Food as Medicine" philosophy, and advancing scientific and psychological literacy. Additionally, we are deeply committed to sustainable food production and reducing our carbon footprint, ensuring that our products not only benefit our consumers but also positively impact the environment. Through these efforts, OLIPOP strives to make a significant and lasting difference in community health and well-being.

OLIPOP's Initiatives for Community Health & Nutrition

Our commitment to community health is demonstrated through our innovative beverage solutions and community-driven initiatives. In 2023, we made significant strides by adding 1.9 million pounds of fiber and removing 7.3 million pounds of sugar from the American diet. ^[1] This effort not only supports healthier lifestyles but also addresses the nutritional deficiencies that many communities face. Here are other ways OLIPOP is dedicated to making a positive impact on community health and well-being:

Improving Access

Food deserts are areas where residents have limited access to affordable and nutritious food, often due to a lack of nearby grocery stores selling fresh produce and healthy options. These areas, typically urban neighborhoods or rural towns, rely heavily on convenience stores and fast food outlets that offer limited healthy choices, contributing to poor diet and health outcomes.

At OLIPOP, one of our primary goals is to make nutritious food and beverages accessible in these underserved communities. Recognizing the importance of convenience stores in food deserts, we expanded our presence in 2023 to 25,885 retailers, and to likely more than 40K retailers by the end of 2024, ensuring that healthier drink options are available where they are most needed. This expansion includes key stores such as 7-Eleven, Circle-K, Kum & Go, Pilot Flying J, Plaid Pantry, and Get Go! Convenience, helping to bridge the gap in food access and support better health outcomes. 

Food Giveaway Events

Our food giveaway events are a cornerstone of our community health initiatives, providing nutritious beverages and essential food items to families in need. These events help address food insecurity by making healthy options accessible to those who might otherwise go without. By partnering with local organizations and leveraging our network, we ensure that these events have a meaningful impact.

• Miami Event with Farm Share: In Miami, we collaborated with Farm Share to distribute fresh produce and OLIPOP to 1,000 families. This event was more than just a distribution of food; it was a community gathering aimed at raising awareness about nutrition and healthy living. By offering both fresh produce and our nutrient-rich beverages, we provided families with the tools to make healthier dietary choices.
• DC/Baltimore Event with FreshFarm: In the DC/Baltimore area, we worked with FreshFarm to subsidize SNAP access to CSA boxes. This initiative ensured that families had access to fresh, local produce, supplemented with OLIPOP, thereby promoting a balanced diet. Our partnership with FreshFarm allowed us to reach a broader audience and support local agriculture, further emphasizing the importance of sustainable food systems.
• Upcoming Atlanta Event: Looking ahead, we are planning a significant event in Atlanta where we will donate OLIPOP and over 30,000 meals to those in need. This event will not only provide immediate relief but also reinforce our long-term commitment to fighting hunger and promoting nutrition equity. 

Through these food giveaway events, OLIPOP is able to directly address the needs of underserved communities, providing both immediate assistance and promoting long-term health benefits. These initiatives highlight our dedication to making nutritious food and beverages accessible to all, reinforcing our commitment to community health and well-being.

SNAP Program Partnership

OLIPOP is also proud to participate in the SNAP benefits program, a crucial initiative that enhances the affordability and accessibility of our products for low-income families. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides essential support to millions of Americans by offering financial assistance to purchase food. By integrating OLIPOP products into the SNAP benefits program, we are able to offer healthier beverage choices that support better nutrition and overall health. Our nutrient-rich beverages, which are low in sugar and high in dietary fiber, align perfectly with the goals of SNAP to improve food security and nutrition among vulnerable populations.

Our efforts in the SNAP program have led to the highest SNAP household penetration among functional sodas. This achievement underscores the impact of our products in promoting healthier dietary habits within SNAP households. By making OLIPOP available through SNAP, we are not only providing a healthier alternative to traditional sugary drinks but also addressing the chronic nutrient deficiencies that often plague low-income communities.

Nutrition Education

Education is a fundamental component of OLIPOP's commitment to improving community health and nutrition. We aim to empower individuals with knowledge about healthy eating and the benefits of nutritious beverages, fostering long-term health and wellness.

• RDN and HCP Engagement: Since 2019, OLIPOP has focused on building awareness and scientific thought leadership among registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) and healthcare practitioners (HCPs). We engage with these professionals at conferences and events, growing our network to over 1,200 RDNs by the end of 2023. This engagement ensures that health professionals are well-informed about OLIPOP's benefits and can share this knowledge with their patients.
• Continuing Education Programs: OLIPOP provides continuing education units (CEUs) for RDNs through accredited webinars. These webinars, hosted in partnership with retail and academic institutions, equip dietitians with the latest research and educational tools to promote healthier beverage choices among their clients.
• Digital Outreach: Our website features a wealth of resources covering a wide range of nutrition topics. We also engage with our audience on social media, sharing healthy recipes, wellness tips, and updates on our latest initiatives. This online presence allows us to reach a broader audience and ensure our educational efforts have a wide-reaching impact.

Through these comprehensive nutrition education initiatives, OLIPOP strives to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to make healthier choices. By raising awareness about the benefits of nutritious beverages and promoting a deeper understanding of nutrition, we are helping to build healthier, more resilient communities.

Partnerships

OLIPOP's mission to promote health and well-being extends beyond just offering nutritious beverages; it involves forging strong partnerships with organizations dedicated to nutrition access and education. Our collaborations are pivotal in amplifying our impact and ensuring that our initiatives reach those who need them most.

• Partnership for a Healthier America: One of our key partners, Partnership for a Healthier America (PHA), works to transform the food landscape in pursuit of health equity. Together, we strive to make nutritious foods more accessible and affordable for families across the United States. 
• Solutran, Nations Benefits, and SODA Health: Our "Food as Medicine" initiatives include partnerships with Solutran, Nations Benefits, and SODA Health. These collaborations aim to integrate our products into healthcare programs, enabling millions of Americans to use their insurance dollars to purchase OLIPOP. 
• Second Harvest Food Bank: To combat food insecurity, we have partnered with Second Harvest Food Bank, contributing to their efforts in providing nutritious food to those in need. Our donations and support help ensure that families have access to healthier food options, aligning with our goal of promoting food equity.

Through these partnerships and initiatives, OLIPOP is dedicated to creating a positive impact on community health and the environment. By working together with like-minded organizations, we aim to make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and the well-being of our planet.

World Hunger Day: The Takeaway

World Hunger Day highlights the ongoing need to combat hunger and malnutrition globally. It provides an opportunity to reflect on these issues and to renew our commitment to making a difference. It is a day to celebrate the progress made, recognize the challenges that remain, and encourage collective action. By raising awareness and inspiring change, we can work towards a world where everyone has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive. At OLIPOP, we are dedicated to improving community health and nutrition. On World Hunger Day, we reaffirm that commitment to our community. 

How to Participate on World Hunger Day

Join us in our mission to enhance community health and nutrition. Support our initiatives and help make a lasting impact. Here's how you can get involved:

• Spread the Word: Share this blog and raise awareness about World Hunger Day and the importance of nutrition access.
• Support Our Efforts: Purchase OLIPOP products and encourage others to choose healthier beverage options.
• Stay Informed: Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on our latest initiatives and how you can help.
• Follow Us: Connect with us on social media to share your ideas, engage with our community, and stay inspired by our journey.
• Get Involved Locally: Participate in local food drives, volunteer at food banks, and support organizations that promote food equity.

Together, we can work towards a future where everyone has access to nutritious food and beverages. Let’s shape a sustainable and healthier world, one sip at a time.

Footnotes

1. Calculated based on units sold, assuming each OLIPOP can replaces a traditional soda, with an average sugar reduction of 34 grams per can and each OLIPOP can contributing 9 grams of dietary fiber.

Meet our Expert This article is written by Elric Centers.  Elric is our Sustainability Manager here at OLIPOP. He's been a pivotal figure in our journey from day one. Born in Germany and raised in Michigan, Elric’s formative years were deeply influenced by the educational philosophies of his parents, who were dedicated educators at the Waldorf School. At 15, a move to California marked the beginning of an era where Elric’s true passions flourished. Immersed in a world of rhythmic beats as a drummer and enlivened by the vibrant festival scene, he eventually found his anchor in the Bay Area—his constant amidst travels and adventures. Venturing into the food and beverage sector, Elric's entrepreneurial journey blossomed with the inception of his own kombucha brand and leadership at a chocolate factory, blending his business acumen with a passion for wellness. His path eventually converged with OLIPOP, where he has donned various hats, leading to his current role spearheading our sustainability endeavors. Elric's vision of wellness transcends personal health, embracing a holistic view that encompasses communal well-being. He perceives business as a conduit for global transformation, championing sustainability not merely as an initiative but as a core philosophy. At OLIPOP, Elric is dedicated to leveraging this platform to foster a world where sustainability and wellness go hand in hand, mirroring his life’s work in promoting practices that benefit both people and the planet.