How to Support Local Farms Through Organic CO2

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Written by Abigail Jolly
February 19, 2024 | Reading time 10 minutes

At Soda Sense, we're not just about quenching your thirst with sparkling, homemade sodas. We're about doing it in a way that supports our community, our country, and our planet. Operating exclusively within the United States, from our base in Seymour, WI, we're proud to offer a CO2 refill and exchange service that's as local as it is sustainable. Join us as we explore the journey of our local, eco-friendly CO2 refills.

What is Organic CO2?

Organic CO2 refers to carbon dioxide that is exclusively derived from renewable resources within the agricultural industry. In contrast to conventional CO2, which is frequently a byproduct of fossil fuel combustion, organic CO2 is sustainably produced without contributing unnecessary gases to the atmosphere.

Refill your CO2 canisters more sustainably with Soda Sense

Where Does Organic CO2 Come From?

Organic CO2 predominantly originates from the agricultural sector within the United States. This sector is a rich source of renewable organic matter that naturally emits CO2 as part of its life cycle. Our organic CO2 is specifically sourced from the fermentation process used in ethanol production. Here's how it works:

Corn, one of the most abundant crops in the U.S., is fermented to produce ethanol. During this fermentation process, yeast consumes sugar in the corn and emits CO2 as a byproduct. Rather than letting this CO2 escape into the atmosphere, it is captured, purified, and liquified to be reused in applications like ours. This method not only repurposes a naturally occurring byproduct but also ensures the CO2 used in our refill service is locally sourced within the United States, supporting American farmers and reducing our carbon footprint by eliminating the need for international transportation.

In essence, when you're using Soda Sense, you're not just making a delicious beverage, you're supporting a sustainable, circular economy that benefits our environment and bolsters our domestic agricultural industry.

Do All Soda Makers Use Organic CO2 Canisters?

No, not all soda makers use organic CO2 canisters. Many CO2 refill providers opt for conventional CO2, which, as we discussed earlier, often comes from fossil fuel combustion—a process that contributes to environmental degradation. Although most soda maker machines can accommodate any CO2 canister that fits a 60L size, the source of the CO2 can drastically impact our environment. As such, it's crucial to consider not just the size of the canister, but the origin of its contents. By choosing organic CO2 canisters from Soda Sense, you're supporting a greener, more sustainable future while still enjoying your favorite fizzy beverages.

At Soda Sense, we are proud to be a thought leader in promoting the use of organic CO2 and supporting local farms. By choosing our refill service, you're not just getting a quality product, but also making an environmentally-conscious decision that positively impacts our planet. So next time you indulge in a homemade soda, remember the positive impact of choosing organic CO2 from Soda Sense.

Related Read: How Our Organic CO2 Helps Reduce Carbon Footprints

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The Process of Purifying Organic CO2

The purification process of organic CO2 is a meticulous task that involves several stages to ensure that the end product is safe, pure, and ready for use. After the CO2 is captured from the ethanol fermentation process, it undergoes a series of purification procedures that involve cooling, compressing, and filtering.

The captured CO2 gas is first cooled down drastically, which causes it to convert into a liquid form. This is a phase change that allows for easier handling and processing of the CO2. Following this, the liquified CO2 is compressed, increasing its density and making it more manageable for the filtering process.

Next comes the critical stage of filtration. In this stage, the CO2 is passed through various filters that remove any impurities or residual substances from the gas. This could include traces of other gases or particulate matter that were present in the original source. It's a stringent process that ensures the final product meets the highest standards of purity.

After filtration, the CO2 undergoes a final check where its purity is ascertained before it is stored and made ready for distribution. Therefore, when you choose Soda Sense, you can be assured that the CO2 in your soda maker has been purified to the highest standards, supporting your health and the environment.

Is Regular CO2 Harmful to the Environment?

Despite its natural presence in the atmosphere, large-scale production and release of CO2, particularly from fossil fuel combustion, significantly contribute to climate change. Regular CO2, often sourced from industrial processes, is a greenhouse gas. This means it traps heat in the atmosphere, leading to a rise in global temperatures, a phenomenon most commonly referred to as global warming.

Organic CO2, on the other hand, is part of a circular economy. The CO2 is captured from a naturally occurring process rather than being generated as an additional byproduct. Moreover, since our organic CO2 is locally sourced within the United States, we significantly reduce CO2 emissions related to the international transportation of gas, further contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly solution.

Advantages of Using Organic CO2

Embracing the use of organic CO2 offers several benefits that align with the growing global inclination towards sustainable practices. One of the key advantages is its positive impact on the environment. Since organic CO2 is a byproduct of the ethanol fermentation process, its capture and subsequent repurposing mitigate its release into the atmosphere, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Furthermore, organic CO2 supports a circular economy model. Instead of being discarded, the CO2 emitted during ethanol production is transformed into a valuable resource, contributing to a cycle of usage that minimizes waste.

In addition, the sourcing of organic CO2 from the local agricultural sector fosters domestic economic growth. It not only provides a steady market for farmers growing crops like corn but also creates ancillary job opportunities within the CO2 capture and purification industry.

Lastly, organic CO2's sustainable sourcing aligns perfectly with conscious consumers' lifestyle choices. When you use a product like Soda Sense that utilizes organic CO2, you're making a choice that supports environmental health, economic growth, and sustainability.

How Organic CO2 Canisters and Soda Makers Are a Perfect Match

Soda makers are increasingly becoming a household staple, given their convenience, cost-effectiveness, and the pleasure of creating customized fizzy beverages at home. Opting for soda makers that utilize organic CO2, like Soda Sense, not only elevates this experience but also contributes positively to environmental sustainability. The CO2 used in our canisters is a byproduct of the ethanol fermentation process, sourced from local farms in the U.S. This means that every bubbly drink you make at home supports local agriculture and reduces your carbon footprint.

Moreover, using organic CO2 in soda makers presents a unique opportunity to be part of a larger, sustainable solution. As consumers, we have the power to choose products that align with our values. By choosing organic CO2, we're not just picking a product; we're supporting a philosophy—a commitment to a greener, more sustainable future. We're endorsing a system that values the environment, supports local industry, and encourages green innovation. In essence, every fizzy drink made with Soda Sense is a toast to sustainability and conscious living.

So, next time you're sipping on your homemade soda, remember that every bubble is a small but meaningful contribution towards supporting local farms and embracing sustainable practices. By choosing Soda Sense's organic CO2 canisters, you're not just enjoying a refreshing beverage; you're making an informed choice that benefits both your health and the environment.

Is it Safe to Consume Non-Organic CO2?

Safety is a primary concern when it comes to any product we consume, and this includes non-organic CO2. While non-organic CO2 is not inherently unsafe, it's the process of its production that often raises concerns. As it's often a byproduct of fossil fuels and other industrial processes, there are potential risks of contamination with other gases and residues. This would depend largely on the purification processes employed.

However, even when purified properly, non-organic CO2 can contribute to larger environmental issues, such as increased greenhouse gas emissions and a larger carbon footprint. Therefore, while it may not present an immediate risk to personal health when properly purified, its overall impact makes organic CO2 a more responsible choice for those mindful of their health and the environment.

Can Organic CO2 Impact the Taste or Quality of My Home-Made Soda?

Many people wonder if using organic CO2 will affect the taste or quality of homemade soda. The answer is a resounding "no." Whether the CO2 is organic or not, it has no impact on the flavor or overall quality of your soda. The primary role of CO2 in soda making is to provide carbonation, and this process remains consistent regardless of the CO2 source. Organic CO2 undergoes rigorous purification, ensuring it is free from impurities that could potentially alter the taste or quality of your beverage. By choosing organic CO2, not only do you get to enjoy fizzy and refreshing soda, but you also make a conscious decision to support sustainable practices.

Supporting Local Agriculture through Organic CO2 Sourcing

At Soda Sense, our commitment to sustainability extends beyond our product to the very heart of our supply chain. By sourcing our organic CO2 from renewable resources within the United States agricultural industry, we proudly support our local farmers and the economies of our rural communities.

Farming, particularly corn farming, forms the backbone of the American agricultural sector. As organic CO2 is a byproduct of the fermentation process used in ethanol production, which predominantly utilizes corn, our demand for organic CO2 provides an additional market for this abundantly grown crop. This, in turn, bolsters the income of our hardworking farmers, encouraging a sustainable and profitable agricultural practice.

Moreover, our localized sourcing reduces the environmental impact associated with long-distance transportation of CO2. It keeps the supply chain short and efficient, minimizing our carbon footprint while promoting local economic growth. We believe in a synergistic relationship with our local agricultural sector; their success is our success, and together, we strive for a more sustainable future.

Our customers play a crucial role in this process too. Every time you choose Soda Sense, you are directly contributing to the growth and prosperity of American farmers. You're not just making your favorite soda at home; you're making a difference.

Join Our Sustainable CO2 Refill Club

Joining our sustainable CO2 Refill Club is a simple, straightforward process designed to make your journey to sustainability as easy as possible. Here's how you can become a part of our eco-friendly initiative:

  1. Place your empty CO2 canisters in our Refill Box. Don't sweat if you only have other brand's canisters, we will exchange and refill any 60L canister!
  2. Once you've sealed your Refill Box and placed your complimentary shipping label, all that's left to do is hand it to USPS.
  3. The second USPS scans your shipping label, we get a new order notification here in WI, and ship out 2 new canisters to you that same day. It's that simple!

By subscribing to our sustainable CO2 Refill Club, you're not just ensuring a steady supply of organic CO2 for your soda maker, but you're also actively participating in an environmentally-friendly and locally-supportive initiative. So, why wait? Join us today and make your soda-making process a part of the solution, not the problem.

Summary

In conclusion, choosing Soda Sense for your at-home soda-making needs isn't just a choice for high-quality carbonation - it's a choice that significantly contributes to environmental sustainability and economic growth. Our organic CO2, sourced entirely within the United States, supports a sustainable circular economy model, minimizes greenhouse gas emissions, and promotes local agricultural practices.

With Soda Sense, you're not only investing in a product that aligns with conscious, eco-friendly lifestyle choices, but you're also supporting American farmers and local economies. Our commitment to sustainability and local sourcing delivers a product that ensures safety, taste, and quality without compromising our responsibility towards the environment. When you choose Soda Sense, you're making a difference - one fizzy, refreshing soda at a time.

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