Read about how Yaala Sparkling, a First Nations-owned beverage company, is making a difference in the Australian drinks market by showcasing native ingredients. Learn more about their story and the impact of programs like the Queensland Government's Indigenous Native Food Program.
Flavours of the Bush
First Nations-owned beverage company Yaala Sparkling is transforming the Australian drinks market by bottling the unique flavours of the Australian bush. Founded on a vision to showcase native ingredients, Yaala Sparkling has blossomed into a successful business, creating premium sparkling beverages that are delicious, refreshing and culturally significant.
From vision to reality: a partnership for success
Yaala Sparkling's journey has been enriched by support from the Queensland Government's Indigenous Native Food Program. Through expert guidance from the Department of Primary Industries Food Innovation team, the company has refined its product range, now featuring four distinct flavours: Davidson Plum and Waratah, Lemon Myrtle and Native Blossom, Quandong and Native Ginger, and Desert Lime and River Mint.
Scientific excellence meets traditional knowledge
The development process involved meticulous research and development, with the Department of Primary Industries Food Innovation team conducting extensive consumer panels. The consumer insights were used to guide future product development, where the team created and refined formulations, determined the processing methodology, defined quality parameters, provided labelling information and assessed the products throughout the shelf-life.
Through the process, more than 40 native food ingredients were incorporated into trial beverages and assessed. The Department of Primary Industries worked alongside Yaala Sparkling and a contract manufacturer to scale-up the production of the product range. This scientific approach, combined with deep respect for traditional knowledge, has resulted in beverages that meet the highest quality standards while preserving the authentic flavours of the land.
A sustainable and impactful approach
Yaala Sparkling is committed to sustainable practices and community development. By partnering with Indigenous wild harvesters and local farmers, the company supports local economies and preserves traditional cultural knowledge. This approach ensures a positive environmental and social impact, fostering a more connected and sustainable Australia.
National recognition and growing success
Yaala Sparkling's dedication to quality and innovation has garnered significant recognition. The company secured investment through Network Ten's Shark Tank and received the prestigious 'Bushfoods and Botanicals Marketing and Cultural Storytelling' award at the FNBBAA Second National Sovereign Food and Botanicals Symposium in Darwin.
Expanding reach and market impact
Yaala Sparkling has achieved significant commercial milestones, including:
- Securing placement on Dan Murphy's online platform
- Partnering with Two Providores for distribution to high-end restaurants
- Successful production runs for their flagship products.
Innovation and future growth
With significant interest in their product range, Yaala Sparkling is poised for further growth and innovation. The company has invested in digital marketing, strengthened its online presence, and participated in industry development programs including Seedlab bootcamp, the Minderoo Foundation Masterclass, and will showcase in The Common, at evokeAG 2025.
About the Indigenous Native Food Program
The Indigenous Native Food Program was a collaborative initiative between the Department of Primary Industries and our Deadly Innovation Strategy. It empowered First Nations-owned businesses to develop and commercialise new food products using native ingredients. This program aimed to address the significant gap in the native food industry, where First Nations participation was limited, despite the growing industry's estimated value of $80 million.
About Deadly Innovation
We support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander innovation and business development through our Deadly Innovation strategy. This initiative fosters a thriving environment for Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses, driving economic growth and creating a more inclusive and prosperous Queensland.
Last updated: 07 Feb 2025