Cola

Cola is a sweet, carbonated soft drink with a caramel color and a distinctive, lightly spiced flavor. It is typically caffeinated and relies on a blend of flavorings that may include vanilla, citrus oils, and a bitter element. The term cola refers to a family of beverages rather than a single recipe, and brands often keep their exact blends secret.

Cola beverages originated in the United States in the late 19th century as medicinal tonics. Early formulas used kola nuts for flavor and caffeine, and Coca-Cola’s original mix reportedly included coca leaf extracts, later removed in the early 1900s. Coca-Cola was introduced in 1886, and Pepsi-Cola (originally Brad’s Drink) followed in 1893. The category grew rapidly and became globally dominant in the 20th century.

Typical ingredients include carbonated water, a sweetener (sugar or corn syrup), caramel color, phosphoric or citric acid, caffeine, and natural or artificial flavorings. Flavors often aim for vanilla and citrus notes, along with a subtle spiciness. Some products use kola-nut extracts, but many modern colas rely on synthetic flavors.

Cola products come in regular and diet/zero-sugar versions, caffeine-free varieties, and specialty flavors such as cherry or vanilla. They are consumed chilled, alone or as mixers, and are distributed worldwide in bottles, cans, and fountain drinks.

Health considerations include high sugar content and calories, caffeine exposure, and dental impact. Environmental concerns focus on packaging waste and energy use in production; many producers promote recycling and offer lighter options.