WHAT OTHER ACTIVE INGREDIENTS DO SOFT DRINKS CONTAIN?
Acids such as citric and phosphoric acids, add a refreshing tartness or bite and help preserve the quality of a soft drink. Caffeine has a distinctive taste that heightens the flavours. Caffeine has been part of cola drinks since their introduction, although caffeine-free cola drinks are now available. The amount of caffeine in a cola drink is one quarter to one third that found in an equal amount of coffee. Carbon dioxide gives soft drinks their special bubbling appeal. The bubbles are added in a process calledcarbonation during which the soft drink is placed under pressure and chilled. This allows the carbon dioxide to be absorbed. And when you open the can or bottle – zing! Besides making the drink more refreshing, the bubbles actually help keep the drink fresher too. Colours along with the bubbles, are part of a soft drinks appeal; both natural and artificial colours may be used.
