Hi-C is a fruit-flavored drink, often categorized as a juice drink rather than a soda, due to its juice content and non-carbonated nature.
Many people wonder whether Hi-C is a juice or soda. The answer is clear: Hi-C is a juice drink, not a soda. Created in 1946, Hi-C contains fruit juice concentrates and was originally marketed for its high vitamin C content. While it’s often served cold like soda, its formulation and nutritional profile differ significantly from carbonated soft drinks.
What Makes Hi-C a Juice Drink?
Hi-C qualifies as a juice drink because it contains real fruit juice concentrates. The original formula included orange juice concentrate, peel oil, and orange essences. Modern versions contain various fruit juice blends:
- Orange and pear juice in Orange Lavaburst
- Pineapple and orange juice in Fruit Punch
- Pear and strawberry juice in Boppin’ Strawberry
Unlike soda, which is carbonated and contains no juice, Hi-C derives part of its flavor from actual fruit components. However, it’s important to note that Hi-C isn’t 100% juice – it’s a “juice drink” that combines juice concentrates with other ingredients.
Hi-C vs. Soda: Key Differences
| Characteristic | Hi-C | Soda |
|---|---|---|
| Carbonation | No | Yes |
| Juice Content | Contains juice concentrates | No juice |
| Original Purpose | Vitamin C supplement | Refreshment |
The History of Hi-C
Niles Foster developed Hi-C in 1946 after spending over a year perfecting the formula. The original Hi-C orange drink contained:
- Orange juice concentrate
- Peel oil and orange essences
- Sugar
- Water
- Citric acid
- Ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
The name “Hi-C” referenced its high vitamin content. Initially sold in 56-ounce cans, it didn’t require refrigeration before opening. After successful test marketing in 1947, Hi-C launched nationally in 1948 with significant promotional support.
Hi-C’s Evolution
Over the years, Hi-C expanded its flavor lineup and packaging options:
- 1948: Original orange flavor
- 1949: Grape flavor introduced
- 1950s: Apple, cherry, and other flavors added
- 1980s: Ecto Cooler launched (originally Citrus Cooler)
- 2000s: Transition to clear, non-staining formula
- 2019: Reduced sugar formulations introduced
Nutritional Profile of Hi-C
While Hi-C contains some juice, its nutritional value differs from pure fruit juice. Modern Hi-C products typically contain:
- Filtered water
- High fructose corn syrup
- Fruit juice concentrates
- Citric acid
- Vitamin C
- Artificial sweeteners (in reduced-sugar versions)
For comparison, check out our guide to the best juicers for apples if you’re interested in making pure fruit juice at home.
Vitamin C Content
One of Hi-C’s original selling points was its vitamin C content. While it does contain added ascorbic acid, the amount varies by product. According to Wikipedia, the vitamin C content was significant enough to merit the “Hi-C” name, though exact amounts aren’t specified in modern formulations.
Where to Find Hi-C Today
Hi-C remains available in several formats:
- Juice boxes (6 fl oz)
- Soda fountain mixes
- Drink mixes (since 2025)
Popular flavors include Orange Lavaburst, Fruit Punch, and Strawberry Kiwi Kraze. For those interested in making their own juice blends, our review of the best blender and juicer combos might be helpful.
Special Editions and Variations
Hi-C has released several notable limited-edition products over the years:
Ecto Cooler
Perhaps the most famous Hi-C variant, Ecto Cooler was originally called Citrus Cooler before being rebranded in 1987 to promote The Real Ghostbusters. Despite the show ending in 1991, the drink remained popular until its discontinuation in 2001. It briefly returned in 2016 as part of a Ghostbusters promotion.
Clear Formulation
In 2000, Hi-C transitioned to a clear formulation in juice boxes to prevent staining. While the soda fountain versions retain their original colors, boxed versions became yellowish-clear regardless of flavor.
