Brothers Jarred and Brandon Smith were avid hockey players in college, and like most athletes, they used sports drinks to supplement their energy needs.  

However, as a college senior, Jarred eventually began to experience acid reflux as a result of the elevated acid content in traditional sports drinks. So the brothers, graduates of Miami and Brown universities, sought to create a healthier sports drink without all that sugary acid.

Along with partner Chris Cummins, the brothers toiled for over a year creating an electrolyte-based drink, eventually unveiling NOOMA, which is shorthand for “No More Acid.”

NOOMA relies on a healthier, minimalized approach to formulation. “NOOMA doesn’t have any acid or preservatives, which gives it a light, smooth taste,” says Jarred. “It also has a very appealing formula with only 10 calories and two grams of sugar, a blend of five electrolytes with a high level of potassium. There are no GMOs, artificial flavors or sweeteners, meaning it’s gluten-free and vegan.”

Last fall the Smiths introduced NOOMA in Northeast Ohio. “We decided to bring NOOMA to Cleveland first because it is our hometown,” says management. “Being from Cleveland we know the power of this community and the support that Clevelanders give each other, something we definitely have felt since we launched last fall.”

Right now, NOOMA is headed by the Smiths and Cummins, with one other employee. The brothers wish to grow into a national brand while keeping the principles of health in the forefront, beginning with distribution in Northeast Ohio yoga studios, CrossFit gyms, and Heinen’s stores.