In a move that blends culinary innovation with environmental consciousness, two Edmonton-based companies have joined forces to create a unique new spirit. Above Average Drinks, a local beverage producer, is now using discarded cacao husks supplied by the artisanal Delavoye Chocolate Maker to craft a distinctive cacao liqueur.
From Waste to Taste: A Circular Economy Model
This collaboration represents a classic example of the circular economy in action within Alberta's local food and beverage scene. Delavoye Chocolate Maker, in its process of creating fine chocolate, generates cacao husks as a byproduct. Rather than discarding this material, the company now provides it to Above Average Drinks. The beverage makers then employ these husks to infuse and flavor their new liqueur, giving what was once considered waste a second, flavorful life.
The partnership was highlighted in a report on December 23, 2025, showcasing how local entrepreneurs are finding creative solutions to reduce waste while developing new products. This initiative not only minimizes environmental impact but also adds value to the local supply chain, keeping production and innovation within the Edmonton community.
Sustainability Meets Craft Beverage Innovation
The project underscores a growing trend among Canadian small businesses, particularly in the food and drink sector, to prioritize sustainability. By upcycling the cacao husks, Above Average Drinks is tapping into a unique flavor profile that would otherwise be lost, creating a product that is both novel and eco-friendly. This approach appeals to a consumer base increasingly interested in the provenance and environmental footprint of what they consume.
For Delavoye Chocolate Maker, this collaboration extends the lifecycle of its core ingredient and reinforces its commitment to sustainable practices. For Above Average Drinks, it provides access to a unique, locally-sourced ingredient that differentiates its product in a competitive market. The result is a cacao liqueur that tells a story of local partnership and resourcefulness.
The Impact on Edmonton's Business Landscape
Collaborations like this one strengthen the fabric of Edmonton's local economy. They demonstrate how businesses can work symbiotically, supporting each other's growth and sustainability goals. Such partnerships can inspire other entrepreneurs in the region to look at their own byproducts or supply chains for similar opportunities for innovation and waste reduction.
This sweet collaboration between a chocolatier and a distiller is more than just a new product launch; it's a model for how local businesses can innovate together. It highlights the potential for cross-industry partnerships that benefit the environment, satisfy consumer demand for sustainable goods, and contribute to a vibrant and resilient local economy in Alberta.
