Consumer insight - why fizz matters

In the highly competitive carbonated soft drink market, understanding and meeting consumer expectations is crucial. One significant aspect that can make or break a product is the longevity of its fizz. This blog delves into why longer-lasting fizz matters and how it can enhance consumer satisfaction and brand loyalty.

1. The Emotional Connection: Fizz as an Experience

First Impressions Matter

The initial burst of carbonation when a can or bottle is opened is more than just a sensory experience—it’s a powerful first impression. The effervescence and sound create an expectation of freshness and quality.

Key Insights:

• Freshness Perception: Consumers associate a strong initial fizz with the drink being fresh and high-quality.
• Sensory Satisfaction: The visual and auditory cues of carbonation are integral to the overall drinking experience.

The Enjoyment Factor

Fizz enhances the drinking experience by adding a tactile element. The sensation of bubbles can elevate the flavour and make the drink more enjoyable.

Key Insights:

• Mouthfeel: Carbonation adds a unique mouthfeel that can enhance the perception of flavour and refreshment along with a distinctive tingle and bite.
• Prolonged Enjoyment: Drinks that maintain their fizz longer provide a consistent experience from the first sip to the last.

2. Practical Benefits: Why Longevity Matters

Consumption Patterns

Understanding how and when consumers drink carbonated beverages can highlight the importance of long-lasting carbonation.

Key Insights:

• Leisurely Drinking: Many consumers enjoy their drinks over an extended period, whether at home, during social gatherings, or whilst working. Longer-lasting fizz ensures the drink remains appealing throughout.
• Portion Control: With increasing health consciousness, some consumers opt to consume smaller amounts of a drink over time. A drink that retains its carbonation is more likely to be finished and appreciated.

Versatility in Use

Carbonated drinks are not always just for immediate consumption—they can be used in various recipes and as a mixer.

Key Insights:

• Mixology: Bartenders and at-home mixologists prefer beverages that maintain their fizz, ensuring cocktails remain vibrant and effervescent.
• Culinary Uses: From marinades to desserts, long-lasting carbonation can enhance culinary applications, making the product more versatile.

3. Technical Considerations: Ensuring Longer-Lasting Fizz

Formulation Adjustments

The composition of a carbonated drink plays a crucial role in how long it retains its fizz.

Key Strategies:

• Carbonation Levels: Adjust the carbonation level to ensure optimal retention without compromising the drink’s flavour profile. This is where CO₂Sustain’s clever carbonation additive comes into its own, allow manufacturers to play with carbonation levels knowing their drink with still be fizzier for longer
• Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality ingredients, such as CO₂Sustain that interact well with carbonation to prolong the fizzy experience.

Packaging Innovations

Packaging technology can significantly impact the retention of carbonation.

Key Strategies:

• Seal Integrity: Ensure that cans and bottles are designed to prevent gas leakage, maintaining carbonation from production to consumption.
• Advanced Materials: Utilise materials that better retain carbonation and are also sustainable, such as high-barrier coatings or improved sealing technologies.

Storage and Handling

Educate consumers and retailers on proper storage and handling to preserve carbonation.

Key Strategies:

• Temperature Control: Highlight the importance of keeping drinks refrigerated to maintain optimal carbonation, although when our liquid additive is used drinks can be poured warm over ice and still be fizzier for longer.
• Handling Practices: Advise on gentle handling to prevent premature loss of carbonation.

What’s Next?

The longevity of fizz is a crucial factor that influences consumer satisfaction and brand loyalty. By focusing on formulation and packaging, manufacturers can ensure their products deliver a superior, long-lasting fizzier experience

If you would like to know how we can help you make your drinks fizzier for longer please call us on +44 (0)113 465 4601 or email info@co2sustain.com for more information.