Discover Which Ginger Ale Brands Use Real Ginger and How to Tell

October 1, 2025 •

4 min read

Studies show that many consumers purchase ginger ale believing it contains significant amounts of real ginger, only to find that popular brands use minimal extracts or flavorings. If you're seeking the authentic, spicy kick, knowing which ginger ale brands use real ginger is essential to avoid disappointment.

Quick Summary

This guide reveals which ginger ale brands use real ginger versus those relying on extracts or flavors. It explains how to decipher ingredient labels and compares popular mainstream and craft brands for consumers seeking authentic ginger flavor.

Key Points

Check Ingredients: Always read the ingredient list for 'pressed organic ginger' or 'fresh ginger root' instead of vague 'natural flavors' or 'extracts'.
Craft vs. Mainstream: Mainstream brands often use minimal, processed ginger extract, while craft and specialty brands are more likely to use a substantial amount of real ginger root.
Visual Cues: Real ginger ale often appears cloudy due to the presence of ginger juice, whereas brands with artificial flavors are typically clear.
Beware of Misleading Claims: Some major companies have faced lawsuits for claiming 'real ginger' despite using tiny, processed amounts.
Consider Sweeteners: Authentic ginger ales are often sweetened with real cane sugar or natural alternatives, while many mainstream options use high fructose corn syrup.
Moderate Intake: Regardless of ginger content, most ginger ale is high in sugar, so consume in moderation. For maximum benefits, consider zero-sugar versions or homemade alternatives.

The Real Ginger Ale Dilemma: Beyond the Label

For many years, ginger ale has been a go-to beverage for a refreshing drink or to soothe an upset stomach. This reputation often leads consumers to believe that all ginger ale contains a substantial amount of real ginger root. However, this is a widespread misconception, perpetuated by years of clever marketing and confusing labeling. The reality is that many of the most recognizable brands on supermarket shelves contain little to no actual ginger, instead using synthetic flavors or minute amounts of highly processed extracts.

Lawsuits have brought this issue into the public eye, with companies like Canada Dry settling for removing the “made from real ginger” claim from US products, although the wording remains unchanged in other markets. These legal challenges highlight the stark difference between what consumers expect and what is actually in the bottle. To find a truly authentic ginger ale, it's necessary to look beyond the major players and explore craft and specialty brands that prioritize real ingredients.

Decoding the Ingredients: What to Look For

When shopping for ginger ale, the ingredient list is your most valuable tool. The key is to look for clear indications of real ginger, not vague or misleading terms. Here’s a breakdown:

Pressed Organic Ginger: This is the gold standard. Brands listing "pressed organic ginger" or "fresh ginger" are transparent about using the actual root. The resulting product may appear cloudy, which is a good visual indicator of real ginger content.
Ginger Root Extract or Oleoresin: This is where things get tricky. While technically derived from ginger root, this is a highly concentrated extract used in minute quantities, often insufficient to provide a noticeable flavor or any health benefit. Mainstream brands like Canada Dry and Schweppes typically use this, alongside “natural flavors”.
Natural Flavors: This is a broad and unspecific term that, in the case of ginger ale, often means little to no real ginger is present. It’s a red flag for consumers seeking authenticity.
Sweeteners: Real ginger ales often use real cane sugar, honey, or alternative sweeteners, while many mainstream options rely on high fructose corn syrup. Brands like Zevia and Olipop use stevia and fruit juices for zero-sugar versions.

Real Ginger Ale Brands

For those who prefer an authentic, spicy kick, several brands prioritize using real ginger in their recipes:

Reed's Real Ginger Ale: A perennial favorite for its strong, authentic ginger flavor, Reed's uses pressed organic ginger. Their drinks are noticeably cloudy, a clear sign of real ginger juice. They also offer zero-sugar options.
Fever-Tree Premium Ginger Ale: Known for high-quality mixers, Fever-Tree uses a blend of ginger root oils from different global regions for a more complex flavor profile.
Q Ginger Ale: This brand sweetens its ginger ale with agave nectar and includes real ginger along with other spices for a sophisticated, less-sweet taste.
Boylan Ginger Ale: An old-school brand that uses real cane sugar and includes a mix of lemon and lime oils alongside real ginger for a classic, balanced flavor.
Blenheim Ginger Ale: With a potent, fiery taste, Blenheim has been making ginger ale with real ginger since 1903.
Gus (Grown-Up Soda) Extra Dry Ginger Ale: A natural soda that is lightly sweetened and uses real ginger root extract for a crisp, less-sweet flavor.
Maine Root Ginger Brew: Made with real ginger and pure cane sugar, this brew offers a robust flavor for those who enjoy a stronger ginger presence.

Comparison Table: Mainstream vs. Craft Ginger Ale


Feature	Mainstream Brands (e.g., Canada Dry, Schweppes)	Craft Brands (e.g., Reed's, Blenheim, Fever-Tree)
Real Ginger Content	Minimal, often highly-processed extract (oleoresin).	Substantial, often from pressed organic ginger root.
Sweetener	Typically high fructose corn syrup.	Often real cane sugar, agave, or honey.
Flavor Profile	Mild, sweet, and predominantly artificial.	Spicy, complex, and earthy with a strong, authentic kick.
Appearance	Clear and golden, colored with caramel.	Often cloudy or hazy, reflecting the fresh ginger content.
Health Reputation	Mostly viewed as a soft drink with minimal health benefits.	Perceived as a more natural option, though sugar content can be high.

Nutritional Considerations Beyond the Ginger

While the presence of real ginger is a significant factor, it's crucial to remember that ginger ale is still a soda. This means it often contains high levels of sugar, which can undermine any potential health benefits from the ginger. For those seeking the digestive advantages of ginger without the added calories, options like ginger tea or zero-sugar ginger ale brands (such as Reed's Zero Sugar or Zevia) are better choices. Even in brands with real ginger, moderation is key due to the sugar content.

Can Homemade Ginger Ale Be a Better Alternative?

For complete control over your ingredients, making your own ginger ale is a fantastic option. You can create a simple ginger syrup by boiling fresh, grated ginger with water and a sweetener, then straining and mixing with carbonated water. This allows you to adjust the sweetness and ginger intensity to your preference, ensuring maximum freshness and authentic flavor.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice

The distinction between real ginger ale and its flavor-enhanced counterparts is significant, impacting both taste and potential wellness benefits. While major brands like Canada Dry and Schweppes offer a familiar, mild soda, they fall short of providing the authentic ginger experience. For a genuine, spicy, and satisfying beverage, seeking out craft brands that explicitly list real, pressed ginger root is the best course of action. Always check the ingredients list, and consider the visual cue of cloudiness as a sign of authenticity. By being a more informed consumer, you can choose a ginger ale that truly lives up to its name and reputation.

Our Favorite Ginger Ale Brand Actually Uses Real Ginger - MSN

Frequently Asked Questions

Canada Dry uses a highly concentrated ginger extract, not fresh ginger root. The company has faced legal action over its 'made from real ginger' claims, resulting in the removal of this phrase from U.S. packaging.

Ginger beer is traditionally brewed and fermented, resulting in a stronger, spicier, and less carbonated flavor. Ginger ale is a softer drink, originally created as a milder, less spicy alternative, but historically still with real ginger. However, modern ginger ale, especially mainstream varieties, is often just flavored soda.

While most ginger ale is a sugary soft drink, some brands offer zero-sugar versions, often sweetened with stevia or fruit juice, like Reed's Zero Sugar or Zevia. For maximum control and health benefits, a homemade version is the best option.

Authentic ginger ale made with fresh, pressed ginger root often has a cloudy or hazy appearance. Mainstream ginger ale brands that use extracts or flavorings are almost always clear.

Brands like Reed's, Blenheim, and Fever-Tree are known for their authentic ginger flavor, as they use real, high-quality ginger root or oils. The specific flavor profile will vary by brand, with some being spicier than others.

Many Schweppes products, including its standard ginger ale, contain minimal ginger extract and rely primarily on 'natural flavors,' rather than fresh ginger root. Its ginger beer product, however, contains brewed ginger.

While real ginger contains anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, the amount in most ginger ales is likely too low to have a significant effect. Furthermore, the high sugar content in many varieties can negate potential health advantages.