Tag: Drink science

A standard 12 oz can of Mountain Dew contains 170 calories and 46 grams of sugar, but what are the ingredients for mt dew that contribute to its distinctive citrus flavor and vibrant color? The recipe includes a combination of core components, sweeteners, preservatives, and a specific artificial dye that create its signature profile.

Studies have shown that some alcoholic beverages lead to significantly worse hangovers than others. If you're wondering what drink has the easiest hangover, the answer often lies in understanding congeners—toxic byproducts of fermentation that can worsen the aftereffects of drinking.

An average person's liver metabolizes roughly one standard drink per hour, equating to a 0.015% reduction in blood alcohol content (BAC) per hour. This process is not about how much alcohol is burned off per hour through sweat or exercise, but rather a slow, constant detoxification by the liver.

Historians note that Ancient Romans would transport glacial ice to cool their drinks, long before modern refrigeration. So, why do people add ice to their drinks, a practice with ancient roots but modern implications for flavor and temperature?

According to a study published in the journal *Alcohol and Alcoholism*, darker liquors tend to produce more severe hangovers due to higher levels of impurities called congeners. But does this principle apply to vodka? The question of whether more expensive vodka makes you less hungover is a common debate, and the answer is more nuanced than a simple 'yes' or 'no.'

Yes, Monster Energy's Nitro line is specifically infused with nitrous oxide to give it a unique texture and flavor profile. Unlike standard carbonated drinks that use only carbon dioxide, the addition of nitrous oxide creates a smoother, lighter, and drier mouthfeel.

According to a 2024 survey of bartenders, 85% believe mixers strongly affect the final taste and customer satisfaction of a mixed drink. A mixer's role is far more complex than just diluting a spirit; it fundamentally alters and enhances the beverage's entire profile. So, what does a mixer do to alcohol and why is this interaction so crucial for creating a great cocktail?

Molecular science shows that increased temperature accelerates the motion of solvent particles, which is why solids like sugar dissolve faster in hot water. However, when it comes to the common question of, "Do sweetener tablets dissolve in cold water?", the answer is a bit more nuanced than a simple 'yes' or 'no'.

Over 70% of lactic acid is produced commercially through the fermentation of carbohydrates like sugar or starch. So, why would lactic acid be in a drink? This versatile compound is used for preservation, flavor enhancement, texture modification, and nutritional fortification across a wide range of beverages, from sodas to fermented health drinks.

According to liquor experts, classic spirit-forward cocktails like the Negroni or Martini can contain an alcohol by volume (ABV) ranging from 25% to 37%. Understanding how strong is a cocktail is crucial for responsible enjoyment and involves more than just the type of liquor used.