What is the history of diet orange soda and how has it evolved over time?

How did diet orange soda begin?

Diet orange soda is the sugar-free version of orange soda, so its history combines two stories: orange soda itself, and the arrival of low-calorie sweeteners in soft drinks. We could not confirm a launch date for the first diet orange soda, and sources do not agree, so be wary of any page that gives one without a source.

Step 1: the orange soda

Orange-flavored soft drinks were a staple long before diet drinks. Orange Crush dates to 1911, credited to chemist Neil C. Ward. Fanta dates to 1940 in Germany, and its orange flavor was developed later, reportedly in Italy in 1955. Sunkist soda launched in 1979 under a license to a Pepsi bottler. Check each brand’s current line for diet or zero-sugar versions.

Step 2: the sweeteners

Diet versions replace sugar with low-calorie sweeteners. The U.S. FDA first issued a regulation for aspartame in 1974 for certain uses, and later approved it for other uses, most recently as a general-purpose sweetener in 1996. FDA states that the acceptable daily intake of aspartame is 50 mg per kilogram of body weight per day and that this level continues to be protective of public health. Other sweeteners, such as sucralose and acesulfame potassium, are also used in drinks. Which one is in your can depends on the brand and the year.

How diet orange soda has changed

• Sweeteners: formulas have moved between sweeteners over time; blends are now common.
• Naming: “diet” has often been replaced or joined by “zero sugar” on labels.
• Ingredients: most still contain carbonated water, citric acid, flavors, colors and preservatives; some use real juice in small amounts.

What to check on the label today

1. The sweetener names in the ingredient list.
2. Whether it contains caffeine (many orange sodas do not).
3. Phenylalanine warnings if you have PKU.
4. Calories per serving, often zero.

Reformulations happen, so the label on the can in your hand is the best record.