sodas

Sodas, also called soft drinks or fizzy drinks, are non-alcoholic beverages that are carbonated and typically sweetened. They are produced in a wide range of flavors and are consumed worldwide.

Typical ingredients include carbonated water, a sweetener (such as sucrose, glucose–fructose syrup, or non-nutritive sweeteners in diet varieties), acids (commonly phosphoric or citric acid), flavorings, and sometimes caffeine, colorings, and preservatives.

Manufacturing involves dissolving carbon dioxide in water under pressure to create carbonation, then combining the carbonated water with concentrate or syrup, adding flavors and other additives, and packaging the finished beverage in bottles or cans.

Common varieties include cola, lemon-lime varieties, ginger ale, root beer, orange soda, and other fruit flavors. Diet or zero-sugar versions use artificial sweeteners. The terms used for these beverages vary by region, with soda, soft drink, and pop all appearing in different places.

Historically, beverages with added carbonation and flavoring date to the 18th century, with commercial soda fountains and the later invention of bottled sodas in the 19th and 20th centuries. Major brands and global distribution helped establish the modern soft-drink industry.

Health considerations focus on sugar or calorie content, which contributes to energy intake and dental health concerns; some sodas contain caffeine and others are caffeine-free. Regulatory practices cover labeling, ingredient disclosure, and, in some jurisdictions, limits on caffeine or added sweeteners.

Packaging and environmental impact include the use of plastic bottles and aluminum cans, with recycling programs and container-deposit schemes in many regions.