Stewart's Key Lime Soda contains the following ingredients:
1. Carbonated Water: This is the base of the soda, providing the fizzy texture and refreshing quality.
2. High Fructose Corn Syrup: A sweetener derived from corn, high fructose corn syrup is commonly used in soda production to enhance the flavor and add sweetness.
3. Natural and Artificial Flavor: These ingredients are responsible for creating the key lime flavor in the soda. “Natural” flavor refers to flavors derived from natural sources, while “artificial” flavor refers to flavors created synthetically.
4. Citric Acid: This ingredient adds acidity to the soda, enhancing the tangy taste of the key lime flavor.
5. Sodium Benzoate (A Preservative): Sodium benzoate is used as a preservative to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold in the soda, ensuring its shelf stability.
6. Acacia: Also known as gum arabic, acacia acts as a stabilizer, helping to prevent separation of ingredients and maintaining the overall consistency of the soda.
7. Ester Gum: Ester gum is a food additive that helps to emulsify and stabilize the soda, preventing the flavors and ingredients from separating.
8. Brominated Soybean Oil: This ingredient is used to help distribute the key lime flavor throughout the soda, ensuring a consistent taste.
9. Yellow 5: Yellow 5 is a food coloring agent that gives the soda its vibrant yellow color.
10. Blue 1: Blue 1 is another food coloring agent used to give the soda a greenish hue, mimicking the color of key limes.
11. BHA (to protect flavor): BHA, or butylated hydroxyanisole, is an antioxidant that helps to preserve the flavor of the soda and prevent it from becoming rancid.
While the ingredients listed above are necessary to create the key lime flavor and preserve the soda, it is important to note that some individuals may have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients. It is always recommended to check the ingredient list and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or specific dietary restrictions.
Personally, I have had the opportunity to try Stewart's Key Lime Soda on a hot summer day. The carbonated water provided a refreshing fizz, while the high fructose corn syrup added just the right amount of sweetness. The natural and artificial key lime flavor was tangy and zesty, reminiscent of freshly squeezed key limes. The citric acid enhanced the tartness of the soda, creating a well-balanced taste. I appreciated the use of sodium benzoate as a preservative, as it ensured that the soda remained fresh and enjoyable. Stewart's Key Lime Soda was a delightful and refreshing beverage choice.