Question map
Which one of the following gas is used in making soft drinks ?
Explanation
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the primary gas used in the production of soft drinks and other carbonated beverages. It is essential for the process of carbonation, which provides the characteristic freshness, fizziness, and bubbles that consumers expect. CO2 is particularly valuable in the beverage industry because it dissolves easily in liquids under pressure and is chemically inert, meaning it does not react with most ingredients, thereby preserving the drink's flavor and freshness. In commercial production, food-grade CO2 is sourced from natural wells or as a byproduct of chemical processes like ammonia production [1]. While other gases like ammonia (NH3) are involved in the industrial manufacturing of CO2, they are not used as ingredients in the drinks themselves [1]. CO2 also helps extend the shelf life of beverages by displacing oxygen, which prevents spoilage.
Sources
- [1] https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyPURL.cgi?Dockey=910122JZ.TXT