Tonic water and soda water may be similar, but they have a few key differences that can lead to confusion. Besides the taste, there are also important nutritional facts to consider. This article will explore these aspects of these drinks, including their origins, ingredients, and drink options. It will also help you determine whether or not they are right for you.
Origins
Tonic water has a number of origins. Originally, it was made to help the British soldiers combat malaria. These soldiers would drink a cocktail made of gin and tonic. This drink was popular in the summer. It was also used as a digestive aid.
Quinine was originally made from the bark of the cinchona tree. The quinine contained in the bark of the cinchona had anti-malarial properties. The quinine was mixed with water and sugar to counter the bitter taste.
The British army stationed in India used tonic water to battle malaria. Soldiers mixed the quinine with carbonated water and sugar. In addition, they added gin, which helped the quinine go down.
Quinine tonic waters were advertised across the British colonies in the 1860s. They recommended tonic water for European travelers acclimating to the heat of tropical climates.
Quinine was the only effective malaria treatment until the late twentieth century. Today, scientists have discovered a substitute. However, many tonic waters are still flavored with quinine. Some are still flavored with a lower dose of quinine.
Aside from quinine, tonic water has a number of other ingredients. Botanicals are also used in premium tonic waters. For example, some are scented with herbs and flowers from the Mediterranean coast. These botanicals are extracted by maceration and then distilled. Often, these botanicals are paired with brown sugar.
Schweppes is a company that produces several different tonic mixers. Their products are sourced from all over the world. Each tonic water has a unique flavor. During their Raise Your Glass, Erase Malaria campaign, they are encouraging people to raise a glass to the end of malaria.
There are two types of tonic water: Indian and Mediterranean. While the Indian tonic water is often bitter, the Mediterranean tonic is milder. Usually, they contain a mixture of citrus extracts and herbs.
Tonic water was produced in large amounts in the 1860s. It was exported to India as a major export market. Since then, it has become an important drink. Historically, quinine was used to treat malaria and other illnesses. As a result, tonic water is a powerful drink.
Ingredients
Tonic water is a carbonated soft drink, with a number of ingredients, including quinine. Its original purpose was as a prophylactic against malaria. However, today it is consumed for its distinctive flavor.
Quinine is a compound found in the bark of the cinchona tree. A native of Peru, it is a powerful antimalarial. When it is mixed with a bit of lemon juice and soda water, it becomes tonic water.
Quinine is a common additive in tonic water, although the amount varies. Although tonic water has been used for centuries to prevent and treat malaria, it is not considered a cure.
Its main ingredient, quinine, is a chemical compound that gives tonic water its bitter taste. Other natural ingredients include ginger, gentian, and citrus. You may also find other flavoring botanicals, such as lavender.
Tonic water is a refreshing alternative to sweet sodas, and it can be combined with a variety of alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. In particular, it is very popular with gin.
Quinine is usually added to tonic water to enhance the flavor. This makes it a great palate cleanser. Some tonics also contain sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, and natural flavorings.
While tonic water is safe for most people, it’s still wise to be cautious when consuming it. For example, some individuals have had allergic reactions. Moreover, it is not advisable to take tonic water without first consulting a doctor.
The United States Food and Drug Administration has approved up to 83 parts per million of quinine in carbonated beverages. Nevertheless, tonic water contains only a fraction of the recommended dose.
It should be noted that tonic water is a carbonated drink, and it does not contain caffeine. Thus, it can be a healthier option to soda. But, as with any soft drink, tonic water does have calories. So, it’s best to use it as a substitute, or only for special occasions.
When making a tonic, it’s important to remember to always refrigerate the bottle immediately after opening. Also, keep the can from being dented. Dented cans can harbor bacteria that can make you sick.
Nutritional profiles
Tonic water and soda water are both carbonated beverages, but they have different nutritional profiles. The main difference is that tonic water is a soft drink. It does not contain fiber, protein, fat, or cholesterol.
Tonic water has a distinctive bitter flavor, which makes it ideal for mixing drinks. However, it also has a high sugar content. This means that people who choose to consume tonic water need to be careful of how much they drink.
Many consumers opt for tonic water as a healthier alternative to flavored sodas. While it is not a healthy choice, it can be enjoyed in moderation.
A 12 ounce serving of tonic water has 124 calories. That is more than half of the daily calorie limit for women and over 11 percent of the daily calorie limit for men.
Tonic water may also have a trace amount of quinine, a natural compound found in the bark of cinchona trees. It is thought to be effective in treating malaria.
Although tonic water has a small amount of quinine, it does not affect the overall nutrition of the beverage. If you are allergic to quinine, consuming tonic water can have a negative effect.
Some tonic waters are sweetened with high fructose corn syrup. High fructose corn syrup is a sugar that is produced from corn starch. It is less expensive than granulated sugar and can be used in a variety of food manufacturing settings.
Diet tonic waters are also available. These products may feature artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, instead of sugar. They may also contain vitamins or minerals.
People who wish to avoid the carbohydrates of tonic water can try sparkling mineral water. During the carbonation process, it is infused with minerals such as potassium, sodium, calcium, and magnesium. It can help keep the body hydrated and improve “good” HDL cholesterol.
Club soda is a popular form of carbonated soda water. It is created through a process similar to seltzer. Unlike tonic water, club soda does not have any carbohydrates. But it does have sodium chloride, sodium benzoate, and potassium sulfate.
Drinking options
Tonic water is a fizzy drink with a sweet and sour flavor. It is usually a mixer for alcoholic drinks, but can also be consumed on its own.
The bitter taste comes from quinine, a substance found in cinchona trees in South America. In ancient times, it was used as a medicine for malaria. Spanish colonists discovered it in Peru and began to use it as a remedy. This is the origin of the drink’s name.
Quinine has a pronounced bitter taste and is the key ingredient in tonic water. However, there are some less-bitter tonics available. While they may be less-calorie options, they do not have the health benefits that most people want.
If you’re looking for a tonic with a little more sweetness, try a cranberry juice and tonic. You can also add a little lemon juice or mint to the mixture. Or, you can even try a gin and tonic. These are some of the most popular ways to enjoy tonic.
Some people prefer to drink a tonic without alcohol. That’s fine! There are many nonalcoholic options that have a lot of health benefits. For instance, there are kombuchas, nonalcoholic wine, and nonalcoholic iced tea.
Several tonics on the market today are flavored with citrus extracts. The fruity flavors are a great way to change the taste of the tonic. Other specialized tonics are infused with herbs.
The most common tonic brand is Canada Dry. You can also make your own with a kit.
Another brand is Fever-Tree
One of the most popular uses for tonic water is as a mixer for a gin and tonic. Many other alcoholic drinks also benefit from the carbonation and sweetness of tonic water. Adding a splash of tonic to a glass of tequila or vodka will help to intensify the flavor of the alcoholic drink.
For a refreshing summertime cocktail, consider making a gin and tonic. Add some tonic water to your favorite gin and garnish with a slice of lemon or lime.
If you’re looking to keep your calories to a minimum, opt for a sparkling tonic water instead.
