A can of standard coke contains 16 teaspoons of refined sugar, which is a risk to your kidneys (and the caramel used to colour many brands is linked to cancer). Some cans even contain flame retardant and ammonia, to make the caffeine. Pepsi is the world’s biggest user of palm oil, and coca cola funds cruel rodeos in the US. These natural sodas are all locally made from real ingredients: ask for them in farm shops and cafes, or buy online.
Avoid sodas sweetened with pet-toxic xylitol: lethal if ingested (even in gum, toothpaste or muffin crumbs). Avoid caffeine for pregnancy/nursing, Keep caffeine away from pets/children. Never buy cans wrapped with plastic rings, these injure wildlife. If you see any discarded, rip up the holes and dispose of in the nearest secure bin.
Karma Cola offers Fair Trade organic fizzy drinks that connects people directly with the people who grow the ingredients, who benefit from the sale of each bottle. Offering cola, lemonade and ginger ale, these drinks contain cola nuts from Sierra Leone, vanilla beans from Sri Lanka and organic sugar from India. The sugar-free variety is sweetened with stevia and enhanced with erythritol (not xylitol).
Fentimans Curiosity Cola (Northumberland) is made to an ancient botanical recipe, infused with cinnamon. Sold in glass bottles or cans. The cherry cola is made with sweet & sour cherries.
Square Root Cola (East London) is made using lemon & lime juice (freshly pressed in-house), raw cane sugar and organic essential oils. Its take on the classic cola is rich and distinctive. It’s produced and bottled from scratch, with zero artificial additives.
Whole Earth Sparkling Cola is sold in a can, find in most indie health shops and farm shops. A refreshing drink, with a hint of lemon.
Gusto is an ethical soft drinks company that blends organic guarana, ginseng and botanicals to create uplifting beverages that deliver taste, stimulation and wellbeing. Sweetened with organic fruit juice and agave, this is a low-calorie drink made with natural ingredients. The range includes:
- Original
- Lemon Energy
- Cola
Boozy Artisan Colas
Berczy Winter Cola is a natural twist on nostalgic cola, with kola nut and lime. A nice Christmas drink, if you’re not driving.
Artisan Drinks Smoked Cola is a blend of classic cola with natural cinnamon, with gentle oakwood smoked notes, vanilla and citrus flavours. Add to bourbon, whisky or rum.
