Yes, Some Tractor Tires Use Beet Juice: Here's Why

Yes, Some Tractor Tires Use Beet Juice: Here's Why

M Hasan    7:05 AM   

The Surprising Use of Beet Juice in Tractor Tires

Beet juice has found a unique and unexpected role beyond the health-conscious juice bars. In agricultural settings, farmers are using this vibrant liquid not for consumption but as a practical solution to enhance tractor performance. Instead of drinking it, they are filling their tractor tires with beet juice, which serves as an effective form of tire ballast.

This innovative approach has been around for over 25 years. Beet juice, often marketed under different brand names, is used as a liquid ballast to add weight, improve traction, and lower the center of gravity for better stability. It's particularly beneficial for tractors working on uneven terrain or hauling heavy loads. The dense nature of beet juice makes it ideal for this purpose, as it is heavier than water and resistant to freezing at subzero temperatures, making it a popular choice in colder regions.

It’s important to note that the beet juice used in tractor tires is not the same as the one consumed for its antioxidant benefits. This version is a byproduct of sugar beet processing, which means it provides a sustainable use for what would otherwise be waste. This eco-friendly approach aligns with broader efforts to find practical and environmentally conscious solutions in agriculture.

Other unconventional methods have also been explored. For example, scientists in Bavaria have experimented with using pickle brine to clear snowy roads, while some northern U.S. states have turned to natural mixtures made from beets to manage road conditions. These examples highlight the versatility of beet-derived products in various applications.

Why Beet Juice Stands Out

While there are several less expensive options for liquid ballast, beet juice offers distinct advantages. Compared to traditional alternatives like calcium chloride, it is far less corrosive and safer for both equipment and the environment. This makes it a win-win for farmers looking to maintain their tractors without compromising performance.

Another competitor is windshield washer fluid, which has antifreeze properties and is cheaper upfront. However, it comes with significant drawbacks. It is toxic to people and animals, flammable, and contains chemicals that can harm the soil if they seep into the ground.

Beet juice excels in terms of weight, safety, and environmental impact. It weighs approximately 11 pounds per gallon, providing substantial ballast without the risks associated with corrosion or chemical toxicity. It also resists freezing down to -35 degrees, making it a reliable option in extreme weather conditions.

For farmers, practicality is key. They understand that sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. Beet juice exemplifies this principle, offering a straightforward and efficient way to enhance tractor performance.

A Nostalgic Revival

Classic tractors from the 1980s are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. When paired with a longevity-friendly ballast solution like beet juice, these older machines are proving that they still have value in modern farming. Their reliability and durability make them a favorite among many farmers who appreciate the craftsmanship of the past.

So, while your doctor might recommend beet juice for its heart-healthy benefits, your local farmer knows it’s even more valuable for improving traction. This unique application of beet juice highlights how everyday ingredients can have unexpected and useful roles in different industries.

By embracing innovative and sustainable practices, farmers continue to demonstrate that simplicity can lead to significant improvements in efficiency and performance. Whether it's through the use of beet juice or other creative solutions, the agricultural community remains committed to finding practical and environmentally friendly ways to meet their needs.

Top 19 Tips to Save Money on Plant-Based Shopping

Top 19 Tips to Save Money on Plant-Based Shopping

M Hasan    4:02 AM   

About the Experts

Bridget Wood is a registered dietician nutritionist and certified diabetes care education specialist with a private practice in Reno, Nevada. She also serves on the Advisory Board for Risely Health and acts as a diabetes coach with Your Diabetes Insider.

Beth Stark is a registered dietician nutritionist with a private practice in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. She works with individual patients, brands, and organizations to create custom recipe plans and provide health and wellness guidance.

Erika Allen is the founder and CEO of Urban Growers Collective, an organization focused on community food security.

Sandra Zhang is a registered dietician nutritionist and pediatric dietitian at the Frances Stern Nutrition Center at Tufts Medical Center. She specializes in treating weight management, hyperlipidemia, prediabetes, nutrient deficiencies, gastrointestinal conditions, and enteral nutrition.

Kelsey Lorencz is a plant-based registered dietitian in Saginaw, Michigan. She runs Graciously Nourished, a platform that prioritizes sustainable healthy eating habits, meal planning, and quick-and-easy recipes.

Dani Lebovitz is a registered dietician nutritionist, pediatric dietitian, and owner of Kid Food Explorers. She’s also a certified diabetes care education specialist and serves as a peer reviewer for several nutrition journals.

Toby Smithson is a registered dietician and senior manager of nutrition and wellness for the American Diabetes Association. She’s also the founder of Diabetes Everyday, an organization that supports diabetes management through nutrition and lifestyle.

JaLorean Hayes is a registered nurse, public health expert, and founder of Meal Maps, a platform that helps people manage health conditions through diet and nutrition.

Joan Salge Blake is an award-winning nutrition professor at Boston University and host of the nutrition and health podcast Spot On! She’s also a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and author of several nutrition books.

Vandana Sheth is a registered dietitian nutritionist who specializes in plant-based and diabetes nutrition. She runs a nutritional consulting business in Los Angeles and is a Fellow of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Highlights

There are many potential health benefits associated with a nutrient-dense, plant-based diet. However, it’s a misconception that plant-based or vegan diets are more expensive. Experts recommend being selective about which organic produce you buy and knowing when to buy canned or frozen. Shopping sales and using apps can help you significantly cut down on your grocery bill. If you’re looking to eat more plant-based foods, you don’t have to spend a lot of money. A vegan or vegetarian diet—or one simply that has more plants added to it—can be affordable if you know how to save money on groceries, and, in many cases, they can cost less than following a traditional diet. So yes, you can still eat plant-based on a budget.

“When people think of plant-based eating, they think they need specialized products,” says Bridget Wood, RDN, CDCES, a registered dietician nutritionist in Reno, Nevada. “But you can get the job done with things like beans, legumes, nuts, tofu, edamame, vegetables, fruit, and whole grains. These items are often more affordable than the packaged convenience plant-based foods and can be more nutritious as well.”

Think of it like this: You’re going to want a protein with dinner. Well, at FreshDirect, you can get turkey breast for $8.29 a pound or steak for a minimum of $10.99 a pound (and the price goes up considerably for more popular cuts)—or you can get 14 ounces of organic tofu for $3.69. The plant-based option costs significantly less.

Why Follow a Plant-Based Diet

Before we jump into how to save money on groceries, let’s talk about what plant-based eating means. Unlike a vegan or vegetarian diet, a plant-based diet may include some meat and animal products, as well as poultry and seafood. So you can be a vegan eater and follow a plant-based diet—or you can be a flexitarian on a plant-based diet. (A flexitarian diet leans towards plants without completely cutting out meat.)

Eating a plant-based diet simply means eating more plants, including plant-based protein. “Because a well-planned plant-based diet will include an overall abundant intake of powerful, health-protective vitamins, minerals, and plant nutrients, it offers many health perks,” says Beth Stark, RDN, LDN, a registered dietician nutritionist with a private practice in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. “This includes a lower risk for chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. A plant-based diet also promotes a healthier gut, thanks to a higher fiber intake.”

Of course, to get those health benefits, you need to eat balanced meals. Think of a protein (for instance, tofu, beans, nuts, or seeds), a healthy fat (such as avocado, olives, or olive oil), a whole grain (like brown rice, quinoa, or oats), and a vegetable or fruit at every meal. “A plant-based diet isn’t a healthier option and won’t deliver positive health benefits when it’s lacking in nutrient-dense foods,” adds Stark.

Now that we’ve gone over the whys of following a plant-based diet, let’s talk about how you can lower your grocery bill.

Tips to Save Money on Groceries

1. Plan around what will spoil first
   “Before shopping, always create your upcoming week’s meal plan to focus on fresh ingredients that are verging on the end of their shelf life and need to be used up,” says Stark. This step prevents you from buying duplicate ingredients that might go to waste, ultimately causing you to throw dollars right in the trash.

2. Buy in bulk
   “Shop in bulk, especially for dry goods or canned goods,” says Julia Zumpano, RD, LD, a registered dietitian with the Cleveland Clinic Center for Human Nutrition. Research from the University of Massachusetts Amherst estimates bulk items, on average, come at about a 30% discount.

3. Batch cook whole grains
   “Prepare a big batch of your favorite whole grain, like super budget-friendly brown rice, at the beginning of the week to incorporate into quick meals like grain bowls, salads, casseroles, tacos, or stir-fries when you’re especially time-pressed,” says Stark.

4. Plan several meals with the same protein
   “If you have two to three meals or snacks that will use pinto beans, it’s easy to cook a batch on the weekend and use these throughout the week to create several different meals,” says Kelsey Lorencz, RD, a plant-based registered dietitian in Saginaw, Michigan.

5. Freeze produce
   Have extra cauliflower from salad prep or extra bananas that went brown too fast? Freeze them in freezer-safe zip-top bags. You can use them to make a plant-based breakfast or dessert.

6. Use the whole plant
   “Maximize your money and minimize food waste by finding creative ways to use every last bit of your produce!” says Dani Lebovitz, MS, RDN, CDDS, CDCES, a pediatric dietician and owner of Kid Food Explorers.

7. Start gardening
   “Plant a garden,” says Toby Smithson, RDN, CDCES, FAND, a registered dietician and senior manager of nutrition and wellness for the American Diabetes Association.

8. Avoid mock meats
   “Avoid using a lot of plant-based convenience foods such as mock meats and cheeses, as the price can be pretty hefty on these pre-packaged foods,” says Lorencz.

9. Choose protein strategically
   “Stick to the basics,” Zumpano advises. “Tofu is much less expensive than meat alternatives.” Mock meats and plant-based alternatives for animal products are pricey—but they’re also not as healthy as you think they might be.

10. Buy frozen and canned produce
    “For produce, check out the price of frozen versus fresh—it can be a significant cost savings,” Zumpano says.

11. Choose organic food wisely
    “Organic food is more expensive,” Zumpano says. Organic farms tend to have higher labor costs, more expensive farming methods, and produce less food—all of which drive up costs that fall onto you, the buyer.

12. Buy on-sale foods
    “One of the best bargains in the supermarket is to buy foods that are marked down in price,” says Joan Salge Blake, EdD, RDN, LDN, FAND, a nutrition professor at Boston University and host of the nutrition and health podcast Spot On!

13. Shop around
    Need saffron or tofu? “Shop at ethnic markets to find better pricing—for example, Indian grocery stores for spices and Asian markets for tofu,” says Vandana Sheth, RDN, CDCES, FAND, a registered dietician nutritionist and author of My Indian Table.

14. Find major savings using apps
    Many grocery chains today have their own apps, so you can check out prices ahead of time. These apps also offer insight into current sales and often have in-app exclusive deals based on what the store has an excess of at a given time.

15. Clean your pantry and fridge
    “Clean up your pantry or fridge,” Zhang says. Keeping your fridge and pantry tidy also helps prevent overbuying, as it’s easier to see what you have, so you don’t accidentally get duplicates.

16. Buy seasonal
    “When we shop produce in season, we get the benefits of fresher food at a lower cost,” Hayes explains.

17. Get a produce saver
    “Invest in a produce saver,” Hayes recommends. This can be in the form of specialty containers, storage bags, or ethylene gas absorbers.

18. Avoid costly food traps
    Spice blends can be pricey—and they often go bad before you finish using them. Make your own and use up ingredients like crushed red pepper and dried basil, for instance, when blending your own pizza seasoning.

19. Use local resources
    “SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) helps low-income households afford groceries,” says Allen. “And Double Up Food Bucks matches SNAP dollars spent on fruits and vegetables at participating farmers markets and grocery stores.”

20. Produce Mistakes You Didn’t Know You Were Making
    There are common mistakes people make when choosing and storing produce that can lead to waste and higher costs. Being aware of these can help you save money and reduce food waste.

35 Top Soups to Warm You Up Fast

35 Top Soups to Warm You Up Fast

M Hasan    4:01 AM   

A Variety of Hearty and Flavorful Soups

Soups have been a staple in kitchens around the world for centuries, offering comfort, nourishment, and warmth. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish to enjoy on a cold evening, there's a soup recipe out there that will satisfy your cravings. From classic favorites to unique twists, these recipes offer something for every palate.

Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pasta Fagioli Soup is a simple yet hearty dish that combines pasta, beans, and vegetables in a savory broth. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner and can be made in just 30 minutes. With 5 servings, it’s ideal for a family meal. The nutritional facts show that each serving has 228 calories, with a good balance of protein and fiber from the beans and vegetables.

Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless favorite that brings comfort and warmth. This version takes about an hour to prepare and serves 10 people. It’s a great option for a family gathering or a chilly evening. Each serving contains 239 calories, with a mix of protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the noodles.

Lemony Turkey Rice Soup

Lemony Turkey Rice Soup offers a fresh twist on traditional turkey soup. This recipe uses lemon and cilantro to add a zesty flavor, making it a refreshing choice. It can be made in 30 minutes and serves 8 people. The nutritional facts highlight its low fat content, with only 4 grams of fat per serving.

Greek Tomato Soup with Orzo

Greek Tomato Soup with Orzo is a creamy and flavorful dish that can be made in 35 minutes. This soup features orzo, a small pasta, and is packed with tomatoes, herbs, and spices. Each serving has 299 calories, making it a satisfying option for a light lunch or dinner.

Carrot Ginger Soup

Carrot Ginger Soup is a vegan option that is both healthy and delicious. Made with pantry staples, this soup can be prepared in 30 minutes and serves 4 people. The use of fresh ginger adds a warm and spicy kick, while the carrots provide a sweet and earthy flavor. Each serving has 80 calories, making it a great choice for a light meal.

Bean Counter Chowder

Bean Counter Chowder is a hearty vegetarian dish loaded with beans, noodles, and herbs. It can be made in 30 minutes and serves 8 people. The nutritional facts show that each serving has 196 calories, with a good amount of fiber and protein from the beans.

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup is a rich and comforting dish that is easy to make. This recipe takes 25 minutes to prepare and serves 12 people. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a special occasion. Each serving has 218 calories, with a balance of protein and carbohydrates.

Italian Veggie Beef Soup

Italian Veggie Beef Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines beef, vegetables, and herbs. It can be made in 30 minutes and serves 12 people. The nutritional facts show that each serving has 159 calories, with a good amount of protein and fiber from the beef and vegetables.

Vietnamese Chicken Meatball Soup with Bok Choy

Vietnamese Chicken Meatball Soup with Bok Choy is a flavorful and nutritious dish that can be made in 6 hours and 45 minutes. This soup includes chicken meatballs and bok choy, making it a balanced meal. Each serving has 147 calories, with a good mix of protein and vegetables.

Great Northern Bean Stew

Great Northern Bean Stew is a thick and hearty dish that is perfect for cold weather. It can be made in 1 hour and 15 minutes and serves 6 people. The nutritional facts show that each serving has 274 calories, with a good amount of fiber and protein from the beans.

Creamy Cauliflower Pakora Soup

Creamy Cauliflower Pakora Soup is a healthier version of traditional pakoras, using cauliflower instead of deep-fried fritters. It can be made in 40 minutes and serves 8 people. Each serving has 135 calories, with a good balance of fiber and protein.

Beef Lentil Soup

Beef Lentil Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines beef and lentils. It can be made in 1 hour and 25 minutes and serves 6 people. The nutritional facts show that each serving has 314 calories, with a good amount of protein and fiber.

Beef Vegetable Soup

Beef Vegetable Soup is a convenient and flavorful dish that can be made in a slow cooker. It takes 9 hours and 20 minutes to prepare and serves 7 people. Each serving has 217 calories, with a good mix of protein and vegetables.

White Bean Soup with Escarole

White Bean Soup with Escarole is a healthy and simple dish that can be made in 50 minutes. It serves 8 people and features white beans and escarole. Each serving has 174 calories, with a good amount of fiber and protein.

Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup

Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup is a rich and hearty dish that can be made in 45 minutes. It serves 8 people and features wild rice and mushrooms. Each serving has 399 calories, with a good balance of protein and fiber.

Split Pea Soup

Split Pea Soup is an old-fashioned favorite that can be made in 2 hours and 30 minutes. It serves 10 people and features split peas, carrots, celery, and a ham bone. Each serving has 202 calories, with a good amount of fiber and protein.

Slow-Cooked Chicken Enchilada Soup

Slow-Cooked Chicken Enchilada Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that can be made in 6 hours and 25 minutes. It serves 8 people and features chicken, beans, and tortilla strips. Each serving has 125 calories, with a good mix of protein and vegetables.

Coconut Curry Soup

Coconut Curry Soup is a spicy and flavorful dish that can be made in 55 minutes. It serves 6 people and features coconut milk, chicken, and vegetables. Each serving has 601 calories, with a good amount of protein and fiber.

Spinach Tortellini Soup

Spinach Tortellini Soup is a simple and delicious dish that can be made in 20 minutes. It serves 6 people and features cheese tortellini and spinach. Each serving has 164 calories, with a good mix of protein and vegetables.

The South in a Pot Soup

The South in a Pot Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be made in 1 hour. It serves 8 people and features black-eyed peas, sweet potatoes, ground beef, and spices. Each serving has 267 calories, with a good amount of protein and fiber.

Spinach Beef Soup

Spinach Beef Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that can be made in 30 minutes. It serves 8 people and features beef and spinach. Each serving has 258 calories, with a good mix of protein and vegetables.

Butternut Squash Apple Soup

Butternut Squash Apple Soup is a velvety and slightly sweet dish that can be made in 1 hour and 15 minutes. It serves 6 people and features butternut squash, apples, and spices. Each serving has 172 calories, with a good amount of fiber and vitamins.

Chicken Barley Soup

Chicken Barley Soup is a hearty and filling dish that can be made in 1 hour and 35 minutes. It serves 5 people and features chicken and barley. Each serving has 259 calories, with a good mix of protein and fiber.

Maryland Crab Soup

Maryland Crab Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be made in 6 hours and 35 minutes. It serves 8 people and features crab, vegetables, and saltine crackers. Each serving has 202 calories, with a good amount of protein and sodium.

Vegetable Lentil Soup

Vegetable Lentil Soup is a healthy and vegetarian dish that can be made in 4 hours and 45 minutes. It serves 6 people and features lentils, vegetables, and herbs. Each serving has 217 calories, with a good mix of protein and fiber.

Pozole

Pozole is a spicy and flavorful stew that can be made in 1 hour and 20 minutes. It serves 8 people and features pork, hominy, and spices. Each serving has 333 calories, with a good amount of protein and fiber.

French Onion Soup with Meatballs

French Onion Soup with Meatballs is a rich and comforting dish that can be made in 8 hours and 15 minutes. It serves 6 people and features onions, meatballs, and cheese. Each serving has 403 calories, with a good mix of protein and fat.

Roasted Autumn Vegetable Soup

Roasted Autumn Vegetable Soup is a warm and healthy dish that can be made in 1 hour and 15 minutes. It serves 12 people and features roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips. Each serving has 240 calories, with a good amount of fiber and vitamins.

Arborio Rice and White Bean Soup

Arborio Rice and White Bean Soup is a hearty and satisfying dish that can be made in 30 minutes. It serves 4 people and features arborio rice and white beans. Each serving has 303 calories, with a good mix of protein and fiber.

Creamy Sweet Potato and Veggie Soup

Creamy Sweet Potato and Veggie Soup is a healthy and delicious dish that can be made in 30 minutes. It serves 16 people and features sweet potatoes, vegetables, and spices. Each serving has 137 calories, with a good amount of fiber and vitamins.

Chicken Gnocchi Pesto Soup

Chicken Gnocchi Pesto Soup is a rich and creamy dish that can be made in 25 minutes. It serves 4 people and features chicken, gnocchi, and pesto. Each serving has 586 calories, with a good mix of protein and fat.

French Lentil and Carrot Soup

French Lentil and Carrot Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be made in 6 hours and 30 minutes. It serves 6 people and features lentils, carrots, and rotisserie chicken. Each serving has 338 calories, with a good amount of protein and fiber.

Meaty Mushroom Chili

Meaty Mushroom Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be made in 1 hour and 25 minutes. It serves 8 people and features mushrooms, ground beef, and sausage. Each serving has 364 calories, with a good mix of protein and fat.

Manhattan Clam Chowder

Manhattan Clam Chowder is a classic and creamy dish that can be made in 50 minutes. It serves 8 people and features clams, potatoes, and onions. Each serving has 91 calories, with a good amount of protein and sodium.

Curried Chicken Corn Chowder

Curried Chicken Corn Chowder is a flavorful and creamy dish that can be made in 45 minutes. It serves 8 people and features chicken, corn, and curry. Each serving has 229 calories, with a good mix of protein and carbohydrates.

Tips for Making Cold-Remedy Soups

When feeling under the weather, soups can provide comfort and nutrition. Ingredients like chicken, garlic, onions, carrots, ginger, and leafy greens are excellent choices. Ginger may help reduce nausea and soothe a sore throat, making it easier to stay hydrated. Vegetables like carrots, tomatoes, and onions are full of antioxidants and vitamin C for a boost of nutrition.

For nutrient-rich soups that can be made ahead, consider lentils, barley, and sturdy root vegetables. If making a big batch of a soup with pasta, cook the broth separately and add the pasta when heating individual servings to prevent the noodles from becoming soggy. Freezing soups is also a great option for future meals.

Many soup recipes can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth, swapping meat for beans, lentils, or tofu, and adding miso paste or a splash of vinegar, lemon juice, or soy sauce for seasoning and brightness. These vegetarian soups still bring the comfort and nutrients needed when a cold has taken over.

14 Top Grape Soda Brands Ranked Worst to Best

14 Top Grape Soda Brands Ranked Worst to Best

M Hasan    3:20 AM   

The Case for Grape Soda: A Comprehensive Ranking

Grape-flavored things often get a bad rap. From the purple Skittles to grape lollipops, they’re frequently overlooked in favor of more vibrant flavors. But it’s time to give grape soda its due. It deserves as much recognition as any other fruit flavor, especially when it comes to soda.

To highlight this, I embarked on a mission to rank every grape soda I could find. I visited local grocers and even checked out a shop with vintage soda bottles. My main focus was the flavor, though secondary factors like probiotic content also played a role in the final ranking.

14. Whirly Pop

Whirly Pop didn’t start off well. Its lollipop-themed label was visually appealing, but the soda inside left much to be desired. The flavor was vague and artificial, with an overwhelming sweetness that felt like drinking liquified candy. I couldn’t get past the melted-lollipop vibe and barely managed a single sip.

13. Spindrift

Spindrift’s grape soda surprised me with how much I disliked it. While it had four ingredients — carbonated water, concord grape juice, apple juice, and lemon juice — the citrus-forward flavor made it hard to identify as grape. The combination of citrus and grape wasn’t palatable, and I wouldn’t drink it again.

12. Nehi

Nehi is a vintage brand, and while it’s transparent about being artificially flavored, the taste didn’t live up to expectations. The grape notes were weak, and it felt like drinking thin grape syrup. It wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t my favorite either.

11. Culture Pop

Culture Pop’s probiotic soda was underwhelming. The inclusion of lemon juice and elderflower made it tart and unbalanced. While it had some health benefits, the flavor fell short compared to others on the list.

10. Zotz

Zotz’s grape soda had a potent grape flavor, but it leaned heavily on artificial notes, reminiscent of Jolly Ranchers. It wasn’t the worst, but it still didn’t win me over.

9. Fanta

Fanta’s grape soda was mediocre at best. It had a subtle, natural flavor but lacked the punch of other options. It was sweet, but not overly so, and it earned a solid ninth spot.

8. Frostie

Frostie stood out for its real grape flavor and balanced sweetness. It had a depth of flavor similar to vintage Coca-Cola, though the sugar content kept it from higher placement.

7. Olipop

Olipop’s herbal, tea-like flavor didn’t appeal to me. While it had health benefits, the botanicals and plant fiber detracted from the overall experience.

6. Ramuné

Ramuné impressed with its natural, juicy grape flavor. It was slightly less sweet than others, making it a refreshing choice.

5. Simple Truth Organic

Simple Truth Organic offered a subtle yet distinct grape flavor with added gut benefits. It was a pleasant, gentle soda that I’d enjoy at gatherings.

4. Cove

Cove’s probiotic soda was neutral but flavorful. It struck a good balance between sweetness and grape flavor without introducing other elements.

3. Zevia

Zevia’s zero-calorie grape soda was a standout. It had a natural, non-artificial flavor and was just sweet enough. Though it didn’t have gut benefits, its taste alone earned it a top-three spot.

2. Poppi

Poppi’s grape soda was a pleasant surprise. The addition of apple juice gave it a well-rounded body, and it avoided the citrus-heavy approach of some competitors.

1. Slice

Slice took the top spot with its pure, potent grape flavor and gut-friendly ingredients. It was natural, juicy, and free of artificial additives. It hit all the right notes and was an easy choice for the number one spot.

Methodology

I compiled the list by visiting multiple grocery stores and gathering a variety of grape sodas. Flavor was the primary factor, with considerations for sweetness, authenticity, and additional flavor notes. Vintage sodas generally ranked lower due to their high sugar content and less appealing taste profiles. The top contenders had a natural, fruity, and punchy grape flavor that I truly enjoyed.