Brio (soft drink) facts for kids
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Brio is a popular fizzy drink from Canada. It's a special type of soda called a chinotto drink, which first came from Italy in the 1930s. Chinotto drinks are known for their unique bittersweet taste. Brio is a bit different because it's usually sweeter than traditional chinotto sodas.
What is Brio?
Brio is a carbonated soft drink. This means it's a sweet drink with bubbles, like many other sodas you might know. Its special flavor comes from the chinotto fruit. The chinotto fruit is small and looks a bit like a tiny orange. It grows on a tree called Citrus myrtifolia. This fruit gives Brio its one-of-a-kind bittersweet taste.
Where Did Brio Come From?
The story of Brio began in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, in 1959. Three friends, who were Italian immigrants, created the drink. Their names were Elio Madonia, Giuseppe Panacci, and Angelo Pirrello. Elio Madonia had moved to Canada in 1950 from a town called Corleone, Sicily in Italy. He met his partners while working as an insurance salesman. Together, they wanted to bring a taste of Italy to Canada.
How Brio is Made Today
Even though Brio is bottled in Canada, its special flavor still comes from Italy. The chinotto extract, which is the concentrated flavor from the chinotto fruit, is imported directly from Italy. This helps keep the authentic taste that makes Brio unique. Once the extract arrives, it's mixed and bottled in Canada, ready to be enjoyed.
Why is Brio Special?
Brio quickly became a very popular drink in Ontario, especially among Italian immigrants. For many, Brio is more than just a soda; it's a way to connect with their Italian heritage. It serves as a special marker of identity for the Italian community living in Canada. The familiar taste reminds them of home and traditions.
