Carbonated drinks are made by adding carbon dioxide to liquids, including soft drinks, water, juice, and wine. Carbon dioxide is a natural gas that supports plant life and is used in photosynthesis. The first carbonated drink was created in 1767, and the industry quickly developed with the invention of efficient ways to infuse liquids with carbon dioxide. Sealing the container is crucial to prevent carbon dioxide from escaping, and the crown cap, invented in 1891, is still used today.
Carbonated drinks are made by incorporating carbon dioxide into a liquid. The most common type of carbonated drink is the soft drink. Other types of drinks such as water, juice and energy drinks are also often carbonated. Some winemakers enrich their products with carbon dioxide, which creates a fizzy, “sparkling” wine.
Carbon dioxide is a naturally occurring gas in the Earth’s atmosphere. It has many uses in nature, including the support of plant life. The gas has no odor and is colorless. Plants absorb carbon dioxide to promote photosynthesis and release oxygen as a byproduct. While breathing, humans inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide.
The earliest known form of carbonated liquid was still mineral water. Scientists discovered that carbon dioxide created the bubbles associated with it. Mineral water becomes carbonated naturally when subjected to high pressures of underground carbon dioxide. Fermentation is a natural cause of carbonation in beverages such as wine, beer and champagne.
In 1767, the first carbonated drink was created by Dr. Joseph Priestley when he infused drinking water with carbon dioxide. The introduction of carbonated drinks opened up a new industry as inventors quickly grappled with creating efficient ways to infuse liquids with carbon dioxide. In the following years, many variations of carbonated drinks – including many soft drinks – were invented. Ginger ale was introduced to Ireland in 1856. Dr. Pepper, Coca-Cola and Pepsi were introduced to the United States in the late 1800s.
Sodas are a combination of sugar, water, and applicable flavoring. During the manufacturing process, the water is deaerated to remove oxidation. Sugar solutions are prepared and mixed with water along with specific flavors and concentrates for the product. After the carbon dioxide has been dissolved or injected into the solution, it is packaged in airtight containers.
One of the most important aspects of creating carbonated drinks is sealing the container to prevent the carbon dioxide from escaping. Several methods were used until William Painter invented the crown cap or crown cap in 1891. Still in use today, the crown cap is commonly referred to as a bottle cap. This airtight seal prevents carbon dioxide from entering the bottle, which keeps the liquid carbonated until it is ready for consumption. Once opened, the drink will flatten out over time as the carbon dioxide escapes into the atmosphere.
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