Non-alcoholic beverages (soft drinks) may be classified into five main groups. Discuss.

1. Carbonated soft drinks: These beverages are carbonated, giving them a fizzy texture. They often contain high levels of sugar and artificial flavors. Examples include cola, lemon-lime soda, and ginger ale.

2. Fruit-flavored drinks: These beverages are made with fruit juices or fruit flavors, giving them a sweet and refreshing taste. They may be carbonated or non-carbonated. Examples include fruit punch, lemonade, and fruit-flavored sodas.

3. Iced teas and coffees: These beverages are made by brewing tea or coffee and then chilling them. They may be sweetened or unsweetened and can be flavored with various ingredients such as fruit or spices. Examples include iced tea, iced coffee, and chai tea.

4. Energy drinks: These beverages are designed to provide a boost of energy through ingredients such as caffeine, vitamins, and amino acids. They often contain high levels of sugar and are marketed as a way to increase alertness and performance. Examples include Red Bull, Monster, and Rockstar.

5. Sports drinks: These beverages are formulated to replenish electrolytes and carbohydrates lost during physical activity. They often contain added vitamins and minerals to support hydration and recovery. Examples include Gatorade, Powerade, and Vitaminwater.

Five Main Groups of Non-Alcoholic Beverages (Soft Drinks)

1. Carbonated Soft Drinks

- Contains carbon dioxide gas that gives them their fizzy texture
- Typically sweetened with sugar or artificial sweeteners
- Examples: Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Sprite, Fanta

2. Fruit Juices and Nectars

- Made from the juice or puree of fruits
- May be 100% juice, fruit nectar (blended with water and sweeteners), or fruit drink (diluted with more water)
- Examples: Orange juice, apple juice, pineapple nectar

3. Flavored Waters

- Purified water flavored with natural or artificial flavors
- May contain sweeteners or be unsweetened
- Examples: Sparkling water, flavored seltzer, flavored water enhancements

4. Sports Drinks

- Designed to replenish electrolytes and carbohydrates lost during physical activity
- Contain electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and chloride
- May also include sweeteners, vitamins, and minerals
- Examples: Gatorade, Powerade, Propel

5. Other Non-Alcoholic Beverages

- Includes a wide range of beverages that do not fit into the other categories
- Examples:
- Iced tea (black, green, herbal)
- Milk (cow's milk, plant-based milk)
- Smoothies (fruit and vegetable blends)
- Energy drinks (caffeinated, often with added supplements)