How is soda made?

How is soda made, step by step?

1. Treat the water. Water is filtered and purified so it tastes the same every time.
2. Make the syrup. Sweetener (sugar, high fructose corn syrup or a low-calorie sweetener), flavorings, color, acid and sometimes preservatives are dissolved in a concentrated syrup.
3. Blend. The syrup is mixed with more treated water. A common ratio is several parts water to one part syrup.
4. Chill and carbonate. The drink is cooled, because cold water holds more gas, and carbon dioxide (CO2) is dissolved in it under pressure.
5. Fill and seal. Cans and bottles are cleaned, filled quickly so the gas stays in, and sealed.

What gives soda its fizz?

Carbon dioxide dissolved in water. Under pressure in a sealed can the gas stays dissolved; when you open it the pressure drops and the gas escapes as bubbles. Shaking a can releases gas early, which is why it sprays.

What are the main ingredients in soda?

Check the ingredient list on the package, because recipes differ. Typical ingredients are carbonated water, a sweetener, an acid such as phosphoric or citric acid, flavors, and in colas caramel color and caffeine. Diet sodas use low-calorie sweeteners instead of sugar. The label also lists any preservatives.

How is homemade or craft soda different?

Home soda makers dissolve CO2 into chilled water, then add a syrup. Some craft sodas use cane sugar or fruit juice. Fermented drinks such as kombucha or traditionally brewed ginger beer make their own gas without added CO2 and can contain a little alcohol.

Why does soda go flat?

Once opened, the dissolved CO2 slowly escapes. Keeping the container sealed and cold slows this. Warm soda loses its fizz faster.