More than 100 years ago, a product was born that would change the beverage landscape forever.
Fast-forward to 2024, and Coca-Cola reigns supreme in the world of soft drinks.
But have any come close?
Photos: Brands. Design: Eat This, Not That!
However, I kicked off this experiment by trying the drink yet again to refamiliarize myself.
The strongest taste in Coke is, of course, cola.
A 20-ounce bottle cost me $2.79 at my local grocery store.
Zoe Strozewski for Eat This, Not That!
It’s important to note that these brands aren’t necessarily trying to replicate Coke.
The biggest difference between Poppi’s cola and Coke, however, was the flavor.
A 12-ounce can cost me $2.49 at my local grocery store.
Zoe Strozewski for Eat This, Not That!
A 12-ounce can cost me $2.49.
However, this brand branches off from Coke significantly in terms of taste.
Like those brands, Rowdy Mermaid’s take on cola is less fizzy and low in sugar and calories.
Zoe Strozewski for Eat This, Not That!
But to my surprise, this brand was far closer to Coke in taste than its lower-ranking peers.
My fellow taster said that it almost reminded him of Diet Coke with a squeeze of lemon.
Don’t get me wrongthis is far from being a bonafide Coke dupe.
Zoe Strozewski for Eat This, Not That!
A 12-ounce can cost me $2.49.
It just didn’t have the same strong flavor and refreshing zing that I get from Coke.
A two-liter bottle cost me $1.48, which breaks down to about 25 cents per serving.
Zoe Strozewski for Eat This, Not That!
Like Coke, Summit Cola had the perfect amount of carbonation, making it super refreshing and sippable.
It was perhaps a touch less sweet, but the cola flavor was really simple and strong.
Zoe Strozewski for Eat This, Not That!
Zoe Strozewski for Eat This, Not That!
Zoe Strozewski for Eat This, Not That!
