The Story Behind GoodPop

If you grew up, like I did, in a region of the country with sweltering weather during the summer months, then you were undoubtedly a huge fan of that frozen relief-on-a-stick called Popsicles. How enticing were those icy colors, with blue, orange, and purple a flavor palate unto themselves?

Fast forward to now. You may find yourself standing hesitantly in front of a freezer case, with a heightened awareness of everything from natural ingredients to hormones in dairy to equitable treatment in the supply chain. Where is suitable refreshment that checks off all your contemporary boxes? Enter Daniel Goetz and GoodPop.

How It All Began for GoodPop

Goetz was a student at the University of Texas in Austin. During a particularly grueling hot spell, he went searching for something similar to a frozen fruit treat he’d had once in Mexico. But what he found didn’t fit with his awareness as an educated consumer—there were too many artificial ingredients and things he couldn’t even pronounce.

With graduation on the horizon, Daniel was looking for a direction, something he could create that allowed him to be part of the emerging conscious capitalism movement. He wanted to do good in the world, on as many levels as possible. Could it be as simple as re-imagining popsicles?

As it turns out, the answer would be a definitive yes. “It all came down to the simple, humble word ‘good,’” says Goetz. “Good ingredients, good flavors, and a good mission.”

After experimenting with various fruits and flavors, Goetz cobbled together an initial line of frozen bars, and conquered the local farmers markets. His bars were such a hit, it was only a matter of time before he started adding new flavors and expanding rapidly. Unique combinations such as Watermelon Agave and Hibiscus Mint joined familiar stalwarts like Strawberry and Cherry+Lemonade—and eventually Chocolate Milk and vegan Orange & Cream, upgraded versions of the classic Fudgsicles and Creamsicles. Today, GoodPops can be found in markets in over 40 states.

Frozen Treats Fuel Passion

The goodness that Goetz envisioned went beyond the mouths of happy consumers. He ensured that his ingredients were Fair Trade certified, Non-GMO Project verified, and organic whenever possible. All dairy products are rBST-free, and coconut milk allows vegans an equal bite at the bar.

As a Certified B-Corp company, GoodPop is committed to a triple bottom line of people, planet, and prosperity. Goetz has partnered with numerous non-profits to give back to the community, including The Whole Planet Foundation, the World Food Program USA, and the Central Texas Food Bank.

“We can make people smile and inspire people to do good deeds,” says Goetz. “We can do good by the way we source ingredients, and we can change the lives of farmers and farming communities. And we can give back and make a difference in our own communities.”

It’s amazing and inspiring to see what a little frozen goodness and a lot of heart can accomplish.

Web Exclusive Recipe! All-American GoodPop Berry Granita Parfaits

All-American GoodPop Berry Granita Parfaits GoodPop Hibiscus Mint bars add a gourmet touch to this lovely summer dessert, made with Greek yogurt, honey, and fresh strawberries.