SodaStream: Make Your Own Soda and Seltzer

SodaStreams are easy to use systems for making your own seltzer, soda, and other carbonated beverages. The systems include a soda making machine, the carbonator, bottles for your soda, and an array of different flavors. There are different machines available, but they all operate the same way; simply press a button and almost instantly you will have carbonated water that you can turn into a soda of your choice by adding flavoring.

Does SodaStream Work?

I received the Fountain Jet SodaStream soda maker, and immediately decided to try it out. The machine was easy to assemble and took only a few minutes. Once it was assembled, carbonating the water was easy. You simply fill the bottle with water, screw it in, and press the button for carbonation. The instructions said that three button presses would result in a normal amount of carbonation, but I found that three resulted only in light carbonation. Five button presses resulted in a much better amount of carbonation.

How Do The Flavors Taste?

SodaStream sells a large number of flavorings so you can create your own homemade version of your favorite soda. Each bottle of flavoring contains enough syrup to make twelve liters of homemade soda. The flavors are actually better for your health than store bought soda because the regular flavorings have no high fructose corn syrup and the diet flavorings have no aspartame.

The flavorings are high quality and taste very close to the products they simulate. The Diet Cola flavor was a big hit in our house because we drink a lot of Diet Coke and the flavor is remarkably similar. The diet energy drink (which is similar to Sugar Free Red Bull) and the Lemonade flavors were also favorites.

Buying A SodaStream

SodaStream machines, bottles, carbonators, and flavors are available online at www.sodastreamusa.com and at several retailers throughout the United States. The prices for a machine range from $89.95 for a Fountain Jet to $199.95 for a Penguin. Flavorings are available for $4.99 to $6.99 per bottle and are also available in variety packs. This is expensive if you do not drink soda very often, but if you drink soda or seltzer regularly, then you will end up saving yourself a lot of money by making it at home.

The Verdict on SodaStream

I recommend SodaStream for anyone who regularly drinks carbonated beverages. The system is easy to use, and the flavors are high quality. You will save money and also drink soda that is better for you.

Sources: Personal Experience
www.sodastreamusa.com