Soft Drinks Without Citric Acid: A Complete Guide

Soft drinks like root beer, cream soda, and certain colas typically do not contain citric acid, offering a different flavor profile without acidity.

Citric acid is found in most commercial beverages, but some people need alternatives due to allergies, acid reflux, or dental sensitivity. This guide reveals which popular soft drinks skip this common additive.

Soft drinks without citric acid options

What Is Citric Acid?

Citric acid occurs naturally in citrus fruits and many plants. Food manufacturers also add it to:

  • Enhance tart flavors
  • Preserve shelf life
  • Balance pH levels

While generally safe, some individuals experience reactions to manufactured citric acid. A 2018 Toxicology Reports study found it’s the second most common ingredient after water in many beverages.

Popular soft drinks without citric acid

Popular Citric Acid-Free Soft Drinks

1. Root Beer

Most traditional root beers avoid citric acid, using these ingredients instead:

Brand Citric Acid-Free?
Barq’s No
A&W Yes
Mug Yes

Always check labels – some brands add citric acid for extra tartness.

2. Cream Soda

Most cream sodas use vanilla flavoring instead of citrus. Popular options include:

  • IBC Cream Soda
  • Faygo Cream Soda
  • Jones Cream Soda

3. Ginger Ale

Some ginger ales skip citric acid:

  • Canada Dry (certain varieties)
  • Seagram’s (original formula)
  • Vernors

For homemade alternatives, try our best blender for mixed drinks to create custom recipes.

Other Beverage Options

Dairy and Alternatives

Plain versions of these typically lack citric acid:

  • Milk (all types)
  • Almond milk
  • Oat milk
  • Soy milk

Teas

Choose plain varieties of:

  • Green tea
  • Black tea
  • Herbal tea

Flavored teas often contain citric acid. For optimal brewing, consider the best coffee maker with cone filter which also works great for loose-leaf teas.

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Why Avoid Citric Acid?

Some people need citric acid-free drinks for:

  • GERD/acid reflux
  • Tooth enamel protection
  • Citrus allergies
  • Certain kidney conditions

A 2016 dental study linked acidic drinks to enamel erosion.

Reading Labels Like a Pro

Citric acid may appear as:

  • E330 (European code)
  • “Natural flavors” (sometimes)
  • “Acidulant”

When in doubt, contact manufacturers directly for formulation details.

Emily Jones
Emily Jones

Hi, I'm Emily Jones! I'm a health enthusiast and foodie, and I'm passionate about juicing, smoothies, and all kinds of nutritious beverages. Through my popular blog, I share my knowledge and love for healthy drinks with others.