Discovering the Fascinating Utah Soda Culture: A Guide to the Best Local Drinks
Utah is a land of diverse landscapes, stunning mountain ranges, and unique cultural experiences. The state also boasts a vibrant soda culture that is worth exploring. From refreshing fruit drinks to carbonated root beers, the drinks here are crafted to perfection. In this article, we’ll provide a guide to some of the best local drinks and give you an overview of the fascinating Utah soda culture.
Understanding the Utah Soda Culture
Utah is known for its conservative social environment; however, soda-drinking is an exception. The reason behind the state’s love for soda dates to the Prohibition era. During the 1920s, Utah was the second driest state in the Union. The sale and manufacture of alcohol were prohibited, leading to the rise of soda-pop as an alternative.
Today, soda is deeply ingrained in Utah’s culture. The beverage is everywhere in the state- from gas stations to fast-food chains. The state has produced iconic brands like Squirt soda, Big Red, and RC Cola. There is even an annual soda pop contest in Salt Lake City, where amateur and professional brewers compete to win the top prize.
The Best Local Drinks to Try in Utah
1) The Brigham’s Brew Root Beer: This drink is an excellent representation of Utah’s soda culture. The Brigham’s Brew Root Beer is a non-alcoholic drink that combines the earthy notes of sarsaparilla and the sweetness of vanilla. The drink has a thick head and a smooth, creamy texture that is sure to delight your taste buds.
2) The Moab Maid Lemonade: If you’re feeling thirsty on a hot summer day, look no further than Moab Maid Lemonade. The drink is made from freshly squeezed lemons, sugar, and water. The lemonade has a tart and sweet taste that is perfect for quenching your thirst.
3) Sodalicious Drinks: Sodalicious is a Utah-based chain that specializes in creating unique sodas. They offer a wide range of flavors ranging from Mountain Dew with raspberry syrup to lemon-lime soda with coconut syrup. The most popular drink on the menu is the Dirty Dr. Pepper. It’s a combination of Dr. Pepper, coconut syrup, and lime juice.
The Future of Utah’s Soda Culture
Utah’s soda culture is here to stay. Local breweries and soda shops are expanding, with new brands and flavors being introduced regularly. In recent years, some residents and health advocates have voiced concerns about Utah’s high sugar intake and the health effects of drinking soda-pop.
In response, some businesses have started offering low-sugar alternatives. Utah-based company, Real Kitchen, has formulated a line of bottled sparkling water with natural fruit flavors. It’s an excellent example of how businesses are adapting to evolving consumer preferences while still preserving the state’s soda-drinking tradition.
Summary
Utah soda culture is unique and deserves to be explored. From classic root beers to innovative soda blends, the state offers a wide range of drinks that are sure to delight your taste buds. Understanding the state’s history and traditions is crucial to appreciate the soda culture. However, it’s important to remember to drink in moderation. Whether you’re a soda fanatic or a casual drinker, Utah’s soda culture is worth experiencing.
