SODA BRANDS – Here are the seven popular brands of soft drinks in the Philippines that have been quenching the thirst of Filipinos for decades.
Soft drinks or also known as sodas, pop, or carbonated beverages, have become a part of modern culture. These flavorful concoctions are enjoyed by people of all ages and are synonymous with moments of relaxation, celebration, and refreshment.
Soft drinks have their origins in ancient civilizations when naturally carbonated mineral springs were valued for their supposed health benefits. However, the concept of artificially carbonated beverages did not exist until the late 18th century. The first recorded instance is credited to Joseph Priestley, who instilled carbon dioxide into water to create what he called “aerated water.”
Early on, soft drinks were often associated with medicinal properties and were dispensed at pharmacies as remedies for various ailments. This association with pharmacies gave rise to famous brands such as Coca-Cola and Pepsi, which were originally sold as tonics and refreshments.
Over the years, the soft drink business has seen an explosion of tastes. While cola remains a timeless classic, the market now offers a variety of alternatives, ranging from fruity combinations to unusual blends. Lemon-lime, orange, root beer, and ginger ale are just a handful of the flavor profiles available to suit a variety of tastes.
Here are some of the popular soda brands in the Philippines:
Coca-Cola
This famous brand has transcended generations and has come to represent celebration and community. Coca-Cola has maintained a steady presence in Filipino families and continues to be a favored choice at parties and events because of its characteristic cola flavor and different offshoots such as Coke Zero.
Pepsi
Pepsi, Coca-Cola’s fierce rival, has also established a considerable presence in the Philippines. Pepsi, is known for its refreshing taste and varied selection of flavors. The friendly competition between Coca-Cola and Pepsi fans has contributed to the country’s lively soft drink culture.
RC Cola
Claud A. Hatcher invented RC Cola, an American brand of cola, in 1905. The first product in the RC brand was Royal Crown Ginger Ale, which related to the original ingredient: ginger.
Sarsi
The popular Filipino brand of root beer has a specific flavor profile that distinguishes it from other soft beverages. Its rich and slightly spicy flavor has made it a popular choice for people looking for an alternative to the conventional cola selections. Sarsi’s connection to regional cuisine and comfort food adds to its appeal.
7-Up
Its refreshing and crisp flavor makes it a lighter option to more strongly flavored soft drinks. 7-Up’s crisp lemon-lime flavor and sparkle make it a refreshing option for those trying to beat the heat.
Mountain Dew
With its strong and experimental flavors, the brand garnered a devoted following in the Philippines.
Royal Tru-Orange
Royal Tru-Orange brings back memories for many Filipinos. For decades, the orange-flavored soft drink has been present on store shelves, recalling childhood memories of afternoons spent enjoying its citrusy goodness.
Sprite
Its light and zesty flavor makes it an excellent dining companion, adding a burst of flavor to a variety of cuisines. Sprite’s crisp, energetic flavor has made it a favorite at family reunions and informal get-togethers.