Which Brands of Ginger Ale Contain Real Ginger?

In 2020, a class-action lawsuit against Canada Dry revealed that many mainstream ginger ale brands contain only minuscule, if any, amounts of real ginger. For consumers seeking the authentic taste and potential health benefits of real ginger, it is crucial to know which brands deliver on their promises.

Quick Summary

This guide reveals the key differences between mass-market and craft ginger ales, detailing which brands use genuine ginger root or juice versus those with artificial or negligible flavoring. It provides a clear overview to help you find an authentically gingery beverage.

Key Points

• Mass-Market vs. Craft: Most major commercial brands, like Canada Dry and Schweppes, use minimal or negligible amounts of real ginger, often relying on artificial or concentrated flavorings.

• Authentic Options: Craft and premium brands such as Reed's, Fever-Tree, Blenheim, and Q Mixers use real ginger root, juice, or a high-quality blend for a genuine, flavorful product.

• Read the Label: The best way to identify real ginger is to check for ingredients like "pressed organic ginger" or "ginger root," rather than vague phrases like "natural flavors".

• Taste the Difference: Authentic ginger ale has a spicier, more complex, and vibrant kick, whereas artificial versions tend to be sweeter and less potent.

• Ginger Ale vs. Ginger Beer: For a stronger, more intense ginger flavor, consider ginger beer brands, which are traditionally brewed with real ginger and often feature a cloudier appearance.

• The Fizz Test: Fermented ginger ales may have finer microbubbles, while force-carbonated sodas often have larger, more aggressive bubbles.

For years, many consumers have assumed that the ginger ale brands they purchase at their local supermarket contain real, potent ginger. However, recent legal challenges and independent analyses have exposed this as a common misconception for many mass-produced sodas, which often rely on artificial flavors or minute amounts of ginger extract. Fortunately, several craft and premium brands are committed to using authentic, high-quality ginger, offering a more flavorful and genuine experience.

Mass-Market vs. Craft Ginger Ales: The Great Divide

The fundamental difference between the brands available on most grocery store shelves and specialty options lies in their ingredients and production methods. Mass-produced ginger ales are designed for consistency, long shelf life, and low cost, which often means sacrificing authentic ingredients. Craft ginger ales, on the other hand, prioritize flavor, using real ginger and more traditional brewing methods to achieve a bolder, more complex taste.

The Common Pitfalls of Mainstream Brands

Mainstream brands like Canada Dry and Schweppes have faced scrutiny for their ginger claims.

• Canada Dry: Despite its historical "Made from Real Ginger" marketing, lawsuits in the U.S. and Canada revealed that the brand uses a highly concentrated ginger extract in quantities so low it's almost undetectable by taste. In the U.S., the claim was removed from packaging following a settlement, but it remains on Canadian versions.
• Schweppes: Owned by the same parent company as Canada Dry, Schweppes often lists "natural flavors" on its ingredient list, with a spokesperson confirming real ginger is part of the flavor blend, but in amounts unlikely to offer any health benefits.
• Ingredient Obfuscation: Both brands use terms like "natural flavors" to protect their proprietary recipes, making it difficult for consumers to know how much, if any, real ginger is present.

Brands That Use Real Ginger

If you're seeking a ginger ale with a legitimate ginger kick, look to these brands that openly use real ginger, juice, or extracts.

Craft and Premium Brands

• Reed's: One of the most well-known brands committed to real ginger, Reed's uses fresh, pressed organic ginger in its recipes. Their Jamaican-style ginger beer and Real Ginger Ale are famous for their potent, spicy flavor derived from ginger root.
• Fever-Tree: This premium mixer brand uses a blend of three types of ginger from different regions—Ivory Coast, Nigeria, and India—to achieve a balanced and complex flavor. Fever-Tree is known for its refreshing taste and isn't as sweet as many alternatives.
• Q Mixers: The Brooklyn-based company Q Mixers is dedicated to creating high-quality mixers, and their ginger ale is no exception. They use real ginger and other botanicals for a clean, crisp, and spicy flavor that isn't overly sweet.
• Blenheim: A southern cult favorite, Blenheim offers multiple versions of its ginger ale, including a notably spicy "Hot" variety. This brand is known for its powerful ginger kick and has been around since 1903.
• Bruce Cost Ginger Ale: Sold in several varieties, Bruce Cost products contain fresh ginger and are sweetened with cane sugar, offering a variety of flavors like passion fruit with turmeric.
• Local Ferment Co.: For a naturally fermented option, Local Ferment Co. uses 100% real cold-pressed ginger juice and organic cane sugar, with no artificial flavors or preservatives.

Comparison Table: Real Ginger Ale Brands

Brand	Use of Real Ginger	Flavor Profile	Notes
Reed's	Yes (Fresh, pressed organic ginger)	Potent, spicy, and authentic	Uses a Jamaican-style recipe. Available in ale and beer versions.
Fever-Tree	Yes (Blend of three natural gingers)	Complex, balanced, not overly sweet	Excellent for mixing cocktails.
Q Mixers	Yes (Real ginger and botanicals)	Clean, crisp, and spicy bite	Specifically designed as a premium mixer.
Blenheim	Yes (Natural ginger flavor)	Ranges from mild to very spicy	A traditional, long-standing brand with a dedicated following.
Bruce Cost	Yes (Fresh ginger)	Authentic ginger with other flavors	Uses fresh ginger and cane sugar.
Canada Dry	Minimal (Trace ginger extract)	Mild, sweet, and sugary	Settled a lawsuit in the U.S. over real ginger claims.
Schweppes	Minimal (Part of "natural flavors")	Mild, very sweet, and syrupy	Contains negligible amounts of ginger.

The Difference: Beyond Just Labeling

Understanding the ingredient list is the most reliable way to know what you're drinking. Brands with real ginger will typically specify "real ginger," "pressed ginger juice," or similar descriptions. In contrast, mainstream brands often hide behind generic phrases like "natural flavors". The taste itself is another strong indicator; authentic ginger ale has a spicier, more vibrant kick, while artificial versions often taste simply sweet and syrupy. For some, even the level of carbonation can hint at the authenticity. Traditionally fermented ginger ales may feature smaller, more integrated microbubbles compared to the larger, more aggressive bubbles of force-carbonated sodas.

The Real Ginger vs. Ginger Beer Debate

While this article focuses on ginger ale, it is important to note the distinction. Ginger beer is traditionally brewed and fermented using real ginger, resulting in a stronger, cloudier, and spicier drink, often with a more robust flavor profile. Many of the brands that use real ginger, such as Reed's, also offer ginger beer versions, which deliver an even more intense ginger flavor. If you are a fan of potent, spicy ginger flavor, exploring ginger beers is highly recommended.

Conclusion: Sourcing Your Authentic Ginger Fix

The next time you're craving a ginger ale with a real, authentic ginger flavor, don't just grab the first can you see. Take a moment to read the ingredient label and consider a craft or premium brand over a mass-market version. Brands like Reed's, Fever-Tree, and Q Mixers offer a genuine, flavorful experience that mass-market alternatives simply can't replicate. By choosing a product with real ginger, you are opting for a superior taste and supporting companies that value quality and authenticity.

Lists of Real Ginger Brands

• Reed's: Specializes in Jamaican-style ginger beer and real ginger ale.
• Fever-Tree: Uses a blend of three natural gingers for a premium mixer.
• Blenheim: Offers a range of spicy ginger ales, including an extra-hot version.
• Q Mixers: Craft mixer with a clean, spicy finish.
• Bruce Cost Ginger Ale: Features fresh ginger and cane sugar.
• Local Ferment Co.: Uses cold-pressed ginger juice in its fermented ales.

A Final Word

In a market saturated with artificially flavored sodas, finding authentic products can be a challenge. But with a little knowledge of what to look for—and what to avoid—you can easily find a ginger ale that not only lives up to its name but also exceeds expectations with its rich, natural flavor.

Choosing the Right Ginger Ale

When selecting a ginger ale, consider the following:

1. Read the Ingredients: Look for explicit mentions of real ginger, pressed ginger juice, or ginger root.
2. Avoid Ambiguity: Be wary of labels that only list "natural flavors," which may indicate trace amounts or a chemical imitation.
3. Check for Clarity: In fermented ginger ales, you might notice natural sediment from the real ginger.
4. Try a Craft Brand: Expand your search beyond the major names to find smaller, artisanal producers dedicated to quality.
5. Consider Ginger Beer: If you prefer a more pronounced and spicy ginger flavor, explore ginger beer options.

• Taste Preference: Do you want a subtle, mild ginger flavor or a bold, spicy kick?
• Ingredient Quality: Are you prioritizing all-natural ingredients or focusing on the overall experience?
• Budget: Craft and premium brands generally cost more than their mass-market counterparts.

By being an informed consumer, you can easily navigate the marketplace and find the perfect ginger ale to suit your needs and taste preferences.

Navigating the Market

Navigating the grocery store can be overwhelming, but armed with the knowledge of which brands to trust, you can make a confident choice. Many larger chains and specialty food stores now carry a variety of craft soda brands, making them more accessible than ever. Keep an eye out for brands known for their real-ingredient promise, and don't hesitate to try something new. The difference in flavor and quality is worth the effort.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to what you value in your beverage. For those who seek the authentic, spicy taste of real ginger and wish to avoid artificial ingredients, the options are plentiful and growing. By supporting these smaller, quality-focused brands, you are voting with your wallet for better, more honest food production.

So, the next time you have a craving for a refreshing ginger ale, remember to look beyond the flashy marketing. The real ginger is waiting for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Canada Dry ginger ale contain real ginger?

While Canada Dry has historically marketed its product as being "Made from Real Ginger," lawsuits have revealed that it contains only a trace amount of ginger extract. In the U.S., the claim was removed from packaging, but it remains in Canada.

How can I tell if a ginger ale has real ginger?

Read the ingredient list. Look for explicit mentions of "pressed ginger juice," "ginger root," or other clear descriptions. Be cautious of vague terms like "natural flavors," which often mask minimal or artificial ginger content.

What is the difference between ginger ale and ginger beer?

Ginger beer is traditionally brewed and fermented with real ginger, resulting in a stronger, spicier, and often cloudier drink. Ginger ale is typically carbonated water flavored with ginger, which in many commercial brands means using artificial or trace flavorings.

Is Fever-Tree ginger ale made with real ginger?

Yes, Fever-Tree uses a unique blend of three different naturally sourced gingers from the Ivory Coast, Nigeria, and India to create its distinctive flavor.

Which brand offers the spiciest ginger ale with real ginger?

Brands like Blenheim's "Hot" variety, Reed's, and Q Mixers are known for their potent and spicy ginger flavor derived from real ginger.

Are ginger ale brands that use real ginger healthier?

Brands with real ginger may offer more flavor and fewer artificial ingredients, but they still contain sugar. While ginger has health benefits, the amount in soda is not enough for medicinal effects. Healthier alternatives include homemade versions or ginger tea.

Do I need to shake a real ginger ale?

Some brands, like Bundaberg (a ginger beer), recommend inverting the bottle before opening to distribute the real ginger sediment and ensure a full flavor experience. Always check the specific brand's instructions.