What Soda Has Ginseng in It? Your Guide to Ginseng-Infused Drinks

Functional beverages, which offer benefits beyond basic nutrition, have seen a major rise in popularity, and one of the key ingredients is ginseng. So, what soda has ginseng in it? The most prominent example is the brand Ginseng UP, though other mainstream and niche products also incorporate the powerful root.

Quick Summary

This article provides a comprehensive overview of sodas containing ginseng, highlighting major brands such as Ginseng UP and the specific Mountain Dew flavor that uses it. It explores the different flavor profiles, potential health advantages of ginseng, and how to identify these products in the beverage market, covering both mainstream and specialty options.

Key Points

• Primary Brand: The main brand known for ginseng soda is Ginseng UP, which offers a variety of flavors.

• Mainstream Option: For a readily available alternative, Mountain Dew Voltage contains ginseng along with its raspberry citrus flavor.

• Natural Ingredients: Ginseng UP uses premium ginseng, pure cane sugar, and is free of caffeine, preservatives, and high-fructose corn syrup.

• Health Benefits: Ginseng is an adaptogen that may offer benefits such as natural energy, cognitive support, and stress reduction.

• Specialty Options: Newer products like Jing Soda provide highly concentrated, sugar-free, and organic ginseng beverage options.

• Identification: Always check the ingredients list for ginseng extract or look for explicit claims on the packaging to verify its presence.

Brands that Use Ginseng in Their Sodas

For many years, the presence of ginseng in soda was a niche offering, but the trend has grown as consumers seek beverages with perceived health benefits. While not common in most major soda lines, several specific products have made a name for themselves by incorporating this adaptogenic root.

Ginseng UP: The Pioneer in Ginseng Soda

As its name suggests, Ginseng UP is a brand built entirely around the concept of a ginseng-infused soda. The company has been producing these drinks since 1981, positioning itself as a pioneer in the functional beverage space. Unlike many traditional sodas, Ginseng UP prides itself on using natural, premium ginseng and pure cane sugar, rather than relying on high-fructose corn syrup or artificial ingredients.

• Flavor Variety: Ginseng UP offers a range of flavors beyond its original formula, including Grape, Orange, and Kola-Champagne options.
• Health-Conscious: All Ginseng UP sodas are caffeine-free and contain no preservatives, appealing to consumers looking for a gentler energy boost that avoids the caffeine-crash cycle.
• Availability: These products can often be found in specialty food stores, Asian markets, and through online retailers like Walmart and Instacart.

Mountain Dew Voltage: A Mainstream Contender

For those seeking a more widely available option, Mountain Dew Voltage is a key example of a mainstream soda that includes ginseng. This electric blue beverage is described as a raspberry citrus flavor and is enhanced with ginseng, providing a unique taste profile and an energy component. While the amount of ginseng may be less concentrated than in a specialized product like Ginseng UP, its inclusion is a notable feature for a major brand.

Specialty and Emerging Options: Jing Soda

Beyond these well-established players, new products are regularly entering the market. For instance, Jing Soda offers a line of super herb concentrates, including a Ginseng Lemon Lime flavor, which is a modern take on a functional beverage. Jing Soda stands out by using a high concentration of organic ginseng and other adaptogenic herbs, with zero sugar or carbs, targeting a health-conscious and keto-friendly audience.

The Potential Benefits of Ginseng in Soda

While the primary purpose of a soda is often refreshment and flavor, the addition of ginseng adds a layer of functionality. Known for centuries in traditional medicine, ginseng is considered an adaptogen, which means it helps the body adapt to stress.

• Natural Energy Boost: Ginseng can provide a natural, sustained energy lift without the jitters or subsequent crash associated with high-caffeine and high-sugar drinks.
• Cognitive Support: Studies have suggested that ginseng may support cognitive functions such as memory and mood.
• Immune System Support: Some evidence indicates that ginseng can have immune-supporting properties, adding another layer of potential benefit.
• Stress Reduction: As an adaptogen, ginseng can assist the body in managing stress, contributing to a greater sense of well-being.

Comparing Ginseng Sodas

Feature	Ginseng UP	Mountain Dew Voltage	Jing Soda (Ginseng Lemon Lime)
Ginseng Concentration	High potency	Included as an additive	High concentration (1,190mg per serving)
Caffeine	Caffeine-free	Contains caffeine	Caffeine-free
Sweetener	Pure cane sugar	High-fructose corn syrup	Stevia (Zero Sugar)
Market	Specialty, health-focused	Mainstream	Premium, functional/keto
Form	Pre-bottled soda	Canned or bottled soda	Concentrated liquid
Availability	Asian markets, specialty shops, online	Widespread in supermarkets and convenience stores	Online via their website or specific health food stores

Finding Your Ideal Ginseng Soda

Choosing the right ginseng soda depends on your personal preferences and health goals. If you are looking for a completely natural, caffeine-free experience with a significant dose of ginseng, Ginseng UP is the go-to choice. For a more conventional soda taste with a hint of ginseng and the familiarity of a major brand, Mountain Dew Voltage is a readily available option. If you prioritize health and are following a specific diet like keto, a product like Jing Soda offers a sugar-free, highly concentrated alternative.

How to Identify Ginseng in Your Drinks

1. Read the Label: The most reliable way to know if a soda contains ginseng is to check the ingredients list. Look for terms like "ginseng extract," "Panax ginseng," or "American ginseng".
2. Look for Explicit Claims: Many brands, especially those in the functional beverage category, will proudly advertise the inclusion of ginseng on the front of their packaging.
3. Check for Adaptogenic Categories: As the market evolves, search for beverages marketed as "adaptogenic," as these often contain ingredients like ginseng.

The Importance of Variety

While Ginseng UP is the most direct answer to the question of what soda has ginseng in it, the market is richer than that single brand. Exploring different options allows consumers to find a product that best fits their flavor preferences, health priorities, and access needs. From mainstream offerings to specialty craft beverages, the world of ginseng-infused sodas has something for everyone.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the number of sodas with ginseng is relatively small compared to the overall beverage market, several notable brands stand out. Ginseng UP is the original, dedicated ginseng soda, offering a natural and caffeine-free experience in multiple flavors. Mountain Dew Voltage provides a mainstream, accessible option for those who enjoy a sweeter, more conventional soda flavor with a ginseng boost. Additionally, newer, health-focused brands like Jing Soda offer highly concentrated, sugar-free alternatives. As consumer interest in functional beverages grows, the availability of diverse ginseng-infused sodas is likely to expand, providing more choices for those who want a refreshing drink with added potential wellness benefits.

• Ginseng Up Official Website*

Further Exploration of Functional Beverages

The trend of adding functional ingredients to beverages extends far beyond ginseng. Many drinks now incorporate other adaptogens like ashwagandha and cordyceps, as well as prebiotics and probiotics. This shift in the beverage industry reflects a broader consumer interest in products that contribute to overall health and well-being, rather than just providing flavor and hydration. Keep an eye on the market for new innovations in this rapidly evolving category.

Sources

• Ginseng Up, Brands: https://www.ginsengup.com/brands
• Mountain Dew, MTN Dew ® VOLTAGE ®: https://www.mountaindew.com/product/mtn-dew-voltage
• Ginseng Up, About: https://www.ginsengup.com/about
• Jing Soda, Jing Soda® Ginseng Lemon Lime: https://getjing.com/products/lemon-lime
• Walmart, Ginseng Up Original Soda: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Ginseng-Up-Original-Soda-12-fl-oz-Bottle/187856191

Frequently Asked Questions

Which soda has ginseng in it?

The most prominent soda brand with ginseng is Ginseng UP, which has been producing ginseng-infused sodas since 1981. Another popular, widely available option is Mountain Dew Voltage, which lists ginseng among its ingredients.

Is Ginseng UP soda the only one with ginseng?

No, while Ginseng UP is the brand most dedicated to ginseng soda, it is not the only one. Mountain Dew Voltage also contains ginseng, and specialty brands like Jing Soda offer highly concentrated, organic alternatives.

Does Mountain Dew Voltage have ginseng?

Yes, Mountain Dew Voltage, known for its raspberry citrus flavor, includes ginseng as one of its ingredients. It is a more mainstream option for a soda with ginseng.

Is ginseng soda healthy?

Ginseng soda can offer potential benefits from its ginseng content, such as providing a natural energy boost and supporting cognitive function. However, the overall healthiness depends on the brand's other ingredients, such as sugar content. Ginseng UP is a caffeine-free option, while brands like Jing Soda offer sugar-free alternatives.

What is an adaptogenic beverage?

An adaptogenic beverage is a drink that contains adaptogens, which are natural substances believed to help the body adapt to stress. Ginseng is a well-known adaptogen, and its inclusion in sodas places them in this category of functional beverages.

Where can I buy Ginseng UP soda?

Ginseng UP soda can be found in specialty grocery stores, particularly Asian markets, and through various online retailers like Walmart, Instacart, and their own company website.

Are there caffeine-free ginseng sodas?

Yes, Ginseng UP soda is explicitly advertised as being caffeine-free, making it an excellent option for those who want the potential benefits of ginseng without the stimulating effects of caffeine.