Pawpaw Ale-8 debuts: KSU and Ale-8-One team up for a Kentucky-grown flavor

FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — Kentucky State University and Ale-8-One are teaming up for a one-of-a-kind Bluegrass beverage—introducing Pawpaw Ale-8, a limited-edition flavor made with Kentucky’s own native fruit.

The new soda is crafted with real sugar and natural tropical flavors derived from the pawpaw fruit—thanks to KSU’s world-renowned Pawpaw Program, the only full-time academic research program in the country focused on the fruit.

The drink officially launches Monday but has already begun hitting select store shelves across Kentucky.

Billed as a sweet blend of science and tradition, Pawpaw Ale-8 celebrates local innovation and flavor, brewed right here in the Commonwealth.