Why And When Did Vernors Stop Using Real Ginger In Soda?

As we know, Vernors is a ginger ale soda, named after its creator, James Vernor. In the past, ginger ale was not a common type of soda.

The soda was originally utilized for digestion and was primarily sold for its medicinal properties. It originally had a primary flavor of vanilla. However, due to consumer demand, the recipe and ingredients were changed, and the product started to contain more ginger ale flavor instead of vanilla.

Later on, as the demand for the soda increased, the company completely discontinued the use of ginger in the soda, opting for artificial flavors and colors. This change was not well-received by consumers. Let’s know when did vernors stop using real ginger.

The decision to stop using real ginger in Vernor soda occurred in the 1950s, marking a significant shift in the beverage’s traditional recipe. Despite the discontinuation of real ginger, Vernors remains a beloved brand with a distinct flavor profile that has left an enduring mark on the soda industry.

What is Vernor?

Vernors is a well-known ginger ale soda, created by James Vernor. It has a long and storied history, particularly in Michigan where it’s considered a beloved local beverage. The soda was initially crafted as a unique blend of flavors, including ginger, and it held a prominent place in the world of sodas due to its distinct taste.

When Did Vernors Stop Using Real Ginger?

Vernors in its early days, was made with genuine ginger, which gave it a distinctive flavor and contributed to its reputation as a digestive aid. However, in the early 1970s to 1980, the company stopped using real ginger, and the composition of the soda changed as consumer preferences and market forces shifted.

Why Did Vernors Stop Using Real Ginger in Soda?

Cost of Ginger

The cost of real ginger has historically been subject to fluctuations, making it a less stable ingredient for large-scale soda production. The expense of sourcing and using genuine ginger was one of the contributing factors to the decision to move away from it as a primary ingredient.

Ginger Supply Issues

The availability and consistency of ginger supplies can be affected by various factors, such as weather conditions and crop yields. This uncertainty in the ginger supply chain likely posed challenges for Vernors and other companies reliant on ginger.

Affordability

As the demand for ginger ale and ginger-flavored sodas grew, affordability became a concern. To meet consumer demands for a more budget-friendly product, Vernors turned to artificial flavors and coloring. The alcoholic people also prefer ginger beer instead of soda as well.

Shelf Life and Stability

Artificial flavors and ingredients often provide better stability and a longer shelf life compared to their natural counterparts. This can reduce the risk of spoilage and help the product maintain its quality for an extended period.

Flavors Of Vernors

Vernors, primarily known for its distinctive ginger ale, has expanded its product line over the years to offer a variety of flavors to cater to different tastes and preferences. While the classic Vernors Ginger Ale remains a favorite, here are the other flavors that people also love.

Vernors Cherry

Vernors Cherry is a delightful twist on the original ginger ale, featuring the same ginger ale base but with a hint of sweet cherry flavor.

Vernors Zero Sugar

For those watching their sugar intake, Vernors offers a zero-sugar alternative that still captures the essence of the original ginger ale flavor without the added sugars, it is like ginger beer without sugar.

Vernors Cane Sugar

Vernor’s Cane Sugar is a nod to the past when sodas were sweetened with cane sugar. This version returns to using cane sugar for a classic, nostalgic taste.

Vernor Outlaw Ginger Ale

Vernors Outlaw Ginger Ale is a special edition of the ginger ale that often includes unique, collectible packaging. It’s a fun and limited-run variation for enthusiasts of the brand.

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Customer’s Reaction To Stop Real Ginger On Soda

Vernors changing from real ginger to artificial flavors made some people sad, as they loved the old taste. They even asked for the original recipe back. But some liked the new taste, as it stayed the same every time. So, different people felt differently about the change, showing how people can like things in their own way.

FAQ

Is Vernors still made with real ginger?

No, Vernors no longer contains real ginger. It switched to artificial flavors.

What brand of ginger ale has real ginger in it?

Brands like Reed’s and Bruce Cost have ginger ales with real ginger.

When did Vernors stop aging in oak barrels?

Vernors stopped aging in oak barrels in 1985.

Does Vernor’s ginger ale use real sugar?

No, Vernors uses high fructose corn syrup, not real sugar.