Yerba mate drinks: who really owns the flavors of tradition?

A young founder recently launched a yerba mate brand called Sollos, mixing the South American drink with tropical flavors like coconut and pineapple. The cans are bright and eye-catching, designed to stand out on shelves. But something feels off to many people. Sollos isn’t just another trendy drink—it’s built on a tradition that goes back centuries in Indigenous communities. Now, the brand is facing backlash for links to anti-immigration views, making people question how a company tied to those ideas can profit from Latino culture. Social media lit up with criticism. Some pointed out the name “Sollos, ” which means “sun” in Spanish, wondering if it was meant to mock the culture the brand’s family supposedly rejects. Others called the move hypocritical, asking how a company with such ties could sell a drink deeply rooted in Indigenous heritage. The debate isn’t just about taste—it’s about who gets to claim and sell cultural traditions in today’s market.The company says the name was chosen for its sunny Florida vibe, not to offend anyone. But the timing raised eyebrows. Sollos launched in May after raising a million dollars and setting up near a high-profile area. The team includes friends from high school, with some working more publicly while others stay in the background. Their office space is large, sending a message of ambition and growth. Online reactions are divided. Some praise the young founder’s drive, arguing that age shouldn’t limit success. Others refuse to support the brand, seeing its connections as a red flag. The argument isn’t just about flavor—it’s about fairness. Who benefits when culture becomes a product? And who gets left behind in the process? One thing is certain: mixing business with identity can get messy. Sometimes, a drink isn’t just a drink—it’s a statement.