Club soda consists of water that is carbonated by dissolving carbon dioxide in it, under high pressure. A manufacturer typically adds mineral salts like potassium or sodium bicarbonate to flavor it. This makes it taste more like mineral water that contains dissolved minerals that naturally add flavor, according to Boston Globe writer John Swain.
History
Club soda and other carbonated drinks were developed in an attempt to emulate the bubbling waters of natural springs, according to "Encyclopaedia Britannica." Joseph Priestly, the English chemist who is known for discovering oxygen, also invented carbonated water in the 18th century when he positioned a bowl of water over a beer vat. Fermentation in the vat released carbon dioxide, which then dissolved in the water. Priestly's experiments with carbonation eventually led to the development of the soda industry.
Commercial Production
The English apothecary Thomas Henry began the first commercial production of carbonated water. In subsequent years, manufacturers began to offer a wider selection of carbonated drinks. When carbon dioxide dissolves in water, it produces carbonic acid. Some manufacturers add sodium to counter the acidity, according to CNN contributor, physician Melina Jampolis. By about 1820, this practice had begun, with the addition of mineral salts. Various flavors were also added to make different drinks.
Excess Sodium Effects
Because the American diet tends to be high in salt, the USDA recommends that you consume no more than a total of 3,300 mg of sodium a day. This is about half the average daily intake, according to nutrition specialist Sue Butkus at Washington State University Puyallup Research and Extension Center. High levels of sodium are linked to high blood pressure, a condition that affects 25 percent of the population.
Additional Information
Check food labels, including those on bottles of club soda, for sodium content. If you like carbonated water but don't want the extra sodium in club soda, try seltzer water, which has less added sodium or none at all. Natural mineral waters can vary considerably in their sodium content and carbonation. Also, if you're drinking water from the tap, it can also contain different amounts of sodium, depending on where you live.
References
- Boston.com: What is Tonic Water?; John Swain; March 2010
- American Chemical Society: Joseph Priestley: Discoverer of Oxygen
- Cable News Network: Can I Drink Carbonated Water?; May 2011
- Washington State University Puyallup Research and Extension Center; Sodium Content of Your Drinking Water; Sue Butkus
- Encyclopaedia Britannica: Soft Drink
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