16 Unique Sodas Around the World with Surprising Flavors

Ever tried a drink that made you pause and think, “Wait, what?” Around the world, people have taken soda to a whole new level, mixing in flavors that are as bold as they are surprising. From bacon to curry and even sweet corn, these sodas aren’t just drinks—they’re adventures in a bottle. So, let’s take a look at some of the most unique sodas out there, and maybe you’ll find one that sparks your curiosity!

Bacon Soda by Rocket Fizz (United States)

Rocket Fizz’s Bacon Soda offers a carbonated beverage that captures the smoky and savory essence of bacon. This novelty drink appeals to adventurous consumers seeking unconventional flavors. Despite its unusual taste, it has garnered attention for its creativity and boldness. The soda is vegetarian-friendly, utilizing artificial flavors to mimic real bacon. It’s often purchased as a gag gift or for tasting events among curious soda enthusiasts.

Cel-Ray by Dr. Brown’s (United States)

Dr. Brown’s Cel-Ray is a celery-flavored soda that has been a staple in New York delicatessens since 1868. Its unique flavor comes from celery seed extract, offering a crisp and refreshing alternative to typical fruit-flavored sodas. Often paired with savory dishes like pastrami sandwiches, it has maintained a loyal customer base for over a century. Cel-Ray is considered an acquired taste, appreciated by those seeking something different from mainstream soft drinks.

Dandelion & Burdock by Fentimans (United Kingdom)

Fentimans’ Dandelion & Burdock is a traditional British soda made from fermented dandelion and burdock roots. It offers a distinctively earthy and slightly bitter flavor, sweetened and carbonated for a unique alternative to conventional colas. This beverage dates back to the Middle Ages and evokes traditional British culinary heritage. It’s often enjoyed as a nostalgic drink, reflecting the historical roots of British soda flavors.

Grass Soda by Lester’s Fixins (United States)

Lester’s Fixins’ Grass Soda provides a quirky beverage that mimics the flavor of freshly cut grass. This green-colored soda appeals to those with adventurous palates seeking novelty drinks. It’s part of a line of unusual flavors, including Dirt Soda and Sweet Corn Soda. Often used in taste-testing challenges, it serves as a conversation starter at gatherings. The soda is caffeine-free and made with pure cane sugar, enhancing its unique tasting experience.

Ranch Dressing Soda by Lester’s Fixins (United States)

Another creation from Lester’s Fixins, Ranch Dressing Soda offers a carbonated take on the creamy salad dressing. This peculiar flavor is designed for those willing to explore the boundaries of conventional soda tastes. It’s often featured in novelty food blogs and taste tests due to its unconventional profile. The soda is sweetened with pure cane sugar, balancing the tangy ranch flavor. It’s typically consumed as a novelty item rather than a regular refreshment.

Peanut Butter & Jelly Soda by Lester’s Fixins (United States)

Lester’s Fixins’ Peanut Butter & Jelly Soda combines the classic sandwich flavors into a sweet, fizzy drink. This soda aims to evoke nostalgia by replicating the taste of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. It’s part of a series of unconventional flavors that challenge traditional soda norms. The beverage is caffeine-free and uses pure cane sugar, enhancing its sweetness. Often purchased as a novelty gift, it intrigues those curious about unique flavor combinations.

Turkey & Gravy Soda by Jones Soda Co. (United States)

Jones Soda Co. introduced Turkey & Gravy Soda as part of a limited-edition holiday pack. This soda captures the savory flavors of a Thanksgiving meal in carbonated form. It’s a vegetarian-friendly beverage, using artificial flavors to mimic turkey and gravy. The novelty drink gained attention for its creativity and holiday spirit. Collectors and adventurous tasters often seek it out during the festive season.

Inca Kola by Corporación José R. Lindley S.A. (Peru)

Inca Kola is a popular Peruvian soda with a unique flavor profile described as a mix of bubblegum and cream soda. This bright yellow beverage is sweet and fruity, making it a staple in Peruvian cuisine. It’s often enjoyed alongside traditional dishes, complementing savory flavors. Inca Kola has a significant cultural presence in Peru, symbolizing national pride. The brand has expanded its availability, reaching international markets due to its distinctive taste.

Ice Cucumber Pepsi by PepsiCo (Japan)

PepsiCo’s Ice Cucumber was a limited-edition soda released in Japan, featuring a refreshing cucumber flavor. This innovative beverage aimed to provide a cooling sensation during the hot summer months. The soda combined the crisp taste of cucumber with the classic sweetness of Pepsi. Its unique flavor garnered curiosity and attention from both local and international consumers. Although it was available only for a limited time, it remains a notable example of Pepsi’s flavor experimentation.

White Fungus Bird’s Nest Drink by Wonderfarm (Vietnam)

Wonderfarm’s White Fungus Bird’s Nest Drink is a unique soda that combines white fungus and bird’s nest extract. This beverage is mildly sweet with a jelly-like texture, making it a distinct experience for soda enthusiasts. It is often consumed in Southeast Asia for its perceived health benefits, including skin nourishment and hydration. The inclusion of bird’s nest, a traditional delicacy, adds a luxurious twist to this drink. It’s a popular choice among those interested in functional beverages.

Salty Watermelon Soda by Pepsi (Japan)

Pepsi’s Salty Watermelon Soda combines the refreshing sweetness of watermelon with a touch of salt for a unique flavor profile. This limited-edition soda was created to capture the taste of Japan’s summer tradition of eating salted watermelon. The salt enhances the natural sweetness of the watermelon, creating a balanced and refreshing beverage. Its bright red color and bold packaging make it a standout among novelty drinks. Though seasonal, it remains a favorite among soda collectors and enthusiasts.

Eel Soda by Kimura (Japan)

Kimura’s Unagi Nobori, or Eel Soda, is a drink inspired by Japan’s culinary tradition of consuming eel for stamina. This soda has a subtle fishy flavor paired with a sweet, fizzy finish, offering a bold and unconventional taste experience. It is marketed as a summer drink to help consumers stay energized during the hot months. Despite its niche appeal, it has gained a cult following among those seeking unique beverages. The soda is a testament to Japan’s creativity in blending traditional foods with modern drinks.

Grass Jelly Drink by Yeo’s (Malaysia)

Yeo’s Grass Jelly Drink combines the herbal notes of grass jelly with a slightly sweetened soda base. Grass jelly, a popular ingredient in Southeast Asian desserts, provides a cooling effect, making it a favorite in hot climates. The drink contains small chunks of jelly, adding an interesting texture to the fizzy beverage. It is often consumed for its refreshing qualities and perceived health benefits. This soda is widely available in Asian grocery stores and is a nostalgic treat for many.

Beverly Soda by Coca-Cola (Italy)

Coca-Cola’s Beverly Soda, originally launched in Italy, is a bitter aperitif-style drink. This soda features a distinctively dry and herbal flavor, making it a polarizing choice among drinkers. It was designed to be consumed before meals as a palate cleanser, reflecting Italy’s aperitivo tradition. Although discontinued in many markets, it remains a favorite among those who enjoy complex, less sweet sodas. Beverly Soda is now a collector’s item and is occasionally featured at Coca-Cola’s World of Coca-Cola attraction.

Sweet Corn Soda by Lester’s Fixins (United States)

Lester’s Fixins’ Sweet Corn Soda delivers a carbonated take on the buttery sweetness of corn on the cob. This yellow-colored soda replicates the flavor of freshly boiled corn, providing a nostalgic experience. It is a popular choice for taste tests and novelty gift baskets. The soda is made with pure cane sugar, adding a touch of natural sweetness to the unique flavor profile. It is part of Lester’s Fixins’ lineup of odd and adventurous soda flavors.

Pakola Ice Cream Soda (Pakistan)

Pakola Ice Cream Soda is a bright green soda from Pakistan, known for its creamy and sweet flavor. It combines the taste of vanilla ice cream with a hint of floral notes, making it a favorite among locals. The soda is often enjoyed as a dessert drink or mixed with milk for an even creamier experience. Pakola has been a cultural staple since its introduction in 1950 and is deeply associated with Pakistani identity. Its vibrant color and nostalgic taste make it a beloved beverage for all generations.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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