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4. FOOD VALUE OF CARBONATED DRINKS
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Carbonated soft drinks contain various amounts of carbohydrate, minerals, vitamins and negligible amounts of fat and protein.
The amount of sugar in soft drinks is about the same as in many fruit juices.
Sugar is a source of energy for your body and like all carbohydrates, has 4 kcal per gram compared to 9 kcal per gram for fat.
Most of the minerals - sodium, calcium and magnesium - come mainly from the major ingredient water.
Potassium and phosphate come from any fruit materials the drinks contain.
The sodium content of water can vary from season to season and in different parts of the country.
On average soft drinks are low in sodium and contain less than 20mg per 200ml serving.
Carbonated sports rehydration drinks may contain about 100 mg of sodium per 200 ml serving.

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5. PACKAGING
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Carbonated soft drinks may be packed in a variety of containers including:
- glass bottles: returnable / non-returnable
- PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles
- cans
They may also be served on draught from dispense machines in cafes and bars.
Because they are pressurised liquids, carbonated drinks need a container which will retain the gas.
New advances in printing techniques and carton developments, mean that carbonated drinks could be on sale in cardboard containers in the near future.


6. SHELF LIFE OF CARBONATED DRINKS


Ingredients in a carbonated drink affect the shelf life of the product.
Processes used and packaging also play a part in how long the product can be stored before it needs to be consumed.
Carbonated drinks can have a shelf life of up to 12 months.
All carbonated soft drinks are ready to serve and require no further preparation before being consumed.
Although they do not require refrigeration, it is recommended that these drinks are chilled before serving.
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7. DISTRIBUTION

The most popular distribution outlets for carbonated drinks are:

Major multiple stores and supermarkets 62%.
Impulse sector including petrol station forecourts 21%.
On-trade including restaurants, public houses and hotels 17%.
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