Sun Drop has long been a regional favorite known for its tangy, citrus-forward flavor and distinct green can. Owned and distributed by Keurig Dr Pepper, the popular soft drink offers a unique taste profile that sets it apart from competitors. The recipe has seen some modern adjustments to meet evolving regulations and consumer expectations, including the removal of a once-common additive.
The Core Ingredients of Classic Sun Drop
The ingredient list for classic Sun Drop includes several key components that form its base and deliver its unique taste and color.
- Carbonated Water: The foundation of any soda, responsible for the effervescence and fizzy texture.
- High Fructose Corn Syrup: A common liquid sweetener in many sodas, it provides the sugary taste. Note that some special versions may use pure cane sugar instead.
- Orange Juice Concentrate: A small but crucial ingredient that contributes a hint of authentic citrus flavor.
- Citric Acid: A natural organic acid found in citrus fruits, it adds a tartness that balances the sweetness.
- Natural Flavors: A proprietary blend of essences that create the characteristic lemon, lime, and orange mash-up taste.
- Caffeine: A central nervous system stimulant that provides an energizing lift.
The Role of Additives and Stabilizers
For a consistent and stable product, Sun Drop also contains several food additives with specific functions.
- Sodium Benzoate (Preservative): This additive inhibits the growth of microorganisms, extending the soda's shelf life.
- Yellow 5: A synthetic food coloring that gives the drink its signature vibrant yellow color.
- Acacia Gum: A tree sap used as a stabilizer to prevent separation of the flavoring oils from the water.
- Ester Gum (Glycerol Ester of Wood Rosin): Another stabilizer that helps suspend the citrus oils evenly throughout the beverage.
The Removal of Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO)
An important change to the Sun Drop formula occurred in July 2024 when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the use of brominated vegetable oil (BVO).
Historically, BVO was used as an emulsifier to keep the citrus oils suspended in the liquid. However, concerns over potential adverse health effects led to the FDA ban. Keurig Dr Pepper subsequently removed BVO from its Sun Drop products, leaving the formula a "little cleaner" with no replacement additive.
Ingredient Comparison Across Sun Drop Varieties
Different versions of Sun Drop feature variations in their ingredient lists, particularly concerning sweeteners and additional flavors. This table highlights the key differences.
| Ingredient Category | Classic Sun Drop | Diet Sun Drop | Cherry Lemon Sun Drop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweetener | High Fructose Corn Syrup / Sugar | Aspartame, Acesulfame Potassium | High Fructose Corn Syrup |
| Flavoring | Natural Flavors (Lemon-Lime-Orange) | Natural Flavors (Lemon-Lime-Orange) | Natural & Artificial Flavors, Cherry Juice Concentrate |
| Coloring | Yellow 5 | Yellow 5 | Red 40, Yellow 5 |
| Caffeine (12oz) | Approx. 64mg | Approx. 68mg | Approx. 64.5mg |
What's in Diet Sun Drop?
For those seeking a low-calorie alternative, Diet Sun Drop's ingredients include:
- Carbonated Water
- Citric Acid
- Orange Juice Concentrate
- Aspartame and Acesulfame Potassium (Artificial sweeteners)
- Sodium Citrate (Flavor enhancer)
- Sodium Benzoate (Preservative)
- Salt
- Caffeine
- Natural Flavors
- Acacia Gum
- Yellow 5
- Ester Gum
What's in Cherry Lemon Sun Drop?
The Cherry Lemon variety adds a twist to the classic formula:
- Carbonated Water
- High Fructose Corn Syrup
- Citric Acid
- Orange Juice Concentrate
- Cherry Juice Concentrate
- Natural and Artificial Flavors
- Sodium Benzoate (Preservative)
- Caffeine
- Acacia Gum
- Ester Gum
- Yellow 5 and Red 40 (Coloring)
Conclusion
The ingredient list for Sun Drop is a mix of foundational beverage components like carbonated water and sweeteners, along with proprietary flavors and functional additives. While the core formula remains centered around a blend of citrus notes, it has evolved over time, most recently with the permanent removal of BVO in mid-2024 to comply with FDA regulations. Whether enjoying the classic, diet, or cherry lemon version, understanding the ingredients provides insight into what creates this iconic soft drink.
For more information on the FDA's decision to ban brominated vegetable oil, you can visit the official CBS News report.
