Softdrinks

Soft drinks are beverages that do not contain alcohol. Carbonated soft drinks are commonly known as soda, pop, fizzy drinks or pop. The name "soft drink" specifies a lack of alcohol by way of contrast to the term "hard drink". Beverages like colas, sparkling water, iced tea, lemonade, squash, and fruit punch are among the most common types of soft drinks.

History

Soft drinks trace their history back to ancient societies which believed that bathing in natural springs and/or drinking mineral waters could cure many diseases. The earliest soft drinks were Sherbets developed by Arabic chemists. These were juiced soft drinks made of crushed fruit, herbs, or flowers. The first marketed soft drinks (non-carbonated) in the Western world appeared in the 17th century. They were made from water and lemon juice sweetened with honey. Carbonated beverages In the 1770s, scientists made important progress in replicating naturally carbonated mineral waters, allowing imitation mineral water to be produced in large amounts.

The name "soft drink" specifies a lack of alcohol by way of contrast to the term "hard drink"

Later sellers of mineral waters began to add herbs and chemicals to unflavored mineral water as well as flavourings to improve the taste. Up to the 19th century bottled drinks were a small portion of the market: most soft drinks were dispensed and consumed at a soda fountain, usually in a drugstore or ice cream parlor. Early 20th century sales of bottled soda increased exponentially and only in the second half of the 20th century canned soft drinks took off. Most recent developments include the development (and growing popularity) of a wide range of nutritional drinks, health drinks, low calorie drinks and energy drinks.

Market developments

Chemelco is well aware of new developments in these markets, and can help you source all the raw materials you need. Some of the many products we are supplying to the producers of soft drinks include:

• Acidulants, like Citric Acid, Phosphoric Acid, Malic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Lactic Acid and Sodium Citrate
• Preservatives, like Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate and Sorbic Acid
• Aromas / Flavours and Colours: a very wide range, natural, nature-identical, artificial, as well as Caramel colours
• Sweeteners, like Acesulfame-K, Aspartame, Sucralose, Sodium Cyclamate and Sodium Saccharin.
• Thickeners, like Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose, Pectins, Guar Gum and Xanthan Gum.
• Ascorbic Acid (vitamin C)
• Many other vitamin and mineral enrichments
• Caustic Soda
• Taurine and other ingredients for energy drinks

Besides our traditional A-line of products from top-class, predominantly European manufacturers, many of the above products are also available from our own Sumo® product line. These products are produced by quality producers and have earned the seal of approval from Chemelco. Many originate from countries in Asia. They offer a good quality, value-for-money alternative.

Looking forward to your enquiries, and to enjoying a cool drink together. Cheers!

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