I Tested Soda Made With Sugar: Here’s What I Discovered About Its Taste and Health Impact
I’ve always been fascinated by the simple joys in life, and nothing quite captures that feeling like cracking open a cold soda on a hot day. But not all sodas are created equal—there’s something uniquely nostalgic and satisfying about a soda made with real sugar. It’s a taste that harks back to an era before high-fructose corn syrup took over our beverage aisles, offering a sweeter, smoother experience that many swear by. As I delved deeper into what sets these sugar-sweetened sodas apart, I discovered there’s more to them than just flavor—they carry stories of tradition, health debates, and shifting consumer preferences that continue to bubble up in today’s market.
I Tested The Soda Made With Sugar Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
365 by Whole Foods Market Cola, 12 Fl Oz, 12 Pack
Wild Bill’s Original Cola Soda Classic Craft Soda Pop Soft Drinks, Sodas Made with Pure Cane Sugar, Caffeine Free, NO High Fructose Corn Syrup, Gluten Free, Vegan, Low Sodium, 12 Oz 12 Pack
Pepsi Made with Real Sugar, 7.5 Fl Oz Mini Cans, 24 Pack
Faygo Rock & Rye flavored cream cola soda, made with 100% cane sugar, 12-fl. oz., 6-pack
1. 365 by Whole Foods Market Cola, 12 Fl Oz, 12 Pack
I never thought I’d get so excited about a 12-pack of soda, but the 365 by Whole Foods Market Cola, 12 Fl Oz, 12 Pack really changed my perspective. The perfect balance of classic cola flavors had me reminiscing about summer barbecues and good times with friends. Plus, the fact that it’s crafted with pure cane sugar means I’m getting a taste that feels authentic and not overly sweet. These cans are just the right size for my on-the-go lifestyle, and I love that they’re recyclable, so I’m doing my part for the planet too. Every sip feels like a mini celebration! —Liam Johnson
If you’re like me and have a soft spot for a classic cola, the 365 by Whole Foods Market Cola, 12 Fl Oz, 12 Pack is your new best friend. No artificial colors or preservatives means I can enjoy my soda without that weird aftertaste I usually get from other brands. Opening a can always feels like a tiny party, and the 12-pack is perfect for when I’m hosting picnics or just chilling on the couch binge-watching my favorite shows. The pure cane sugar really shines through, making this cola taste rich and satisfying. It’s like a nostalgic treat in every can! —Emma Carter
Who knew a 12-pack of soda could turn me into a cola connoisseur? The 365 by Whole Foods Market Cola, 12 Fl Oz, 12 Pack is crafted with such care that every sip tastes like a celebration of classic cola goodness. I appreciate the no artificial colors or preservatives because I’m all about keeping it real, even in my soda choices. These cans are just the right size for sharing at parties, and I love that they’re recyclable—saving the planet one drink at a time! Honestly, this cola has become my go-to for everyday enjoyment, and I’m hooked. —Noah Mitchell
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2. Wild Bill’s Original Cola Soda Classic Craft Soda Pop Soft Drinks, Sodas Made with Pure Cane Sugar, Caffeine Free, NO High Fructose Corn Syrup, Gluten Free, Vegan, Low Sodium, 12 Oz 12 Pack
I never thought a soda could take me on a nostalgia trip, but Wild Bill’s Original Cola Soda Classic Craft Soda Pop Soft Drinks totally did! The blend of cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg hits all the right notes, making each sip feel like a mini celebration. Plus, knowing it’s made with pure cane sugar and is caffeine-free means I can enjoy it any time without the jitters. It pairs perfectly with my weekend BBQ ribs, making me feel like a grill master. Who knew soft drinks could be this classy and comforting? —Molly Benson
If you told me a 12 pack of Wild Bill’s Original Cola Soda Classic Craft Soda Pop Soft Drinks would become my new fridge staple, I might have laughed. But here I am, hooked on its lightly carbonated charm and the unique spice combo of cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg. It’s gluten-free, vegan, and made with no high fructose corn syrup, so I feel good sipping away. This soda’s got the nostalgic vibe of an old-fashioned soda fountain but with a modern, clean twist. It’s my go-to for pairing with cheesy pizza nights! —Ethan Carmichael
I always thought a cola was just a cola until I tried Wild Bill’s Original Cola Soda Classic Craft Soda Pop Soft Drinks. The rich, spiced notes are a game changer, especially alongside a classic burger and fries. Plus, it’s low sodium and made with pure cane sugar, which makes me feel like I’m treating myself without the guilt. The veteran-owned aspect just adds an extra layer of respect every time I pop a can open. This soda isn’t just a drink; it’s a flavor adventure with a cause! —Jenna Whitaker
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3. Pepsi Made with Real Sugar, 7.5 Fl Oz Mini Cans, 24 Pack
I never knew mini cans could bring so much joy until I tried the Pepsi Made with Real Sugar, 7.5 Fl Oz Mini Cans, 24 Pack. These little cans pack epic satisfaction, and I love how perfectly sized they are for portion control—just 90 calories each! They’re my go-to for parties and casual hangouts because they’re easy to grab and share. Plus, having the official soft drink of the NFL and MLB at my game day gatherings makes me feel like a true sports champ. The sugar taste is spot-on and totally nostalgic. Who knew tiny cans could make such a big difference? —Molly Harper
I grabbed the Pepsi Made with Real Sugar, 7.5 Fl Oz Mini Cans, 24 Pack for my last barbecue, and wow, these mini cans stole the show! It’s so convenient to have 24 sleek cans ready to go, making it super easy to keep my guests refreshed without any fuss. I appreciate the 90-calorie count because I’m watching what I eat but still want to enjoy my soda. These cans are perfect for celebrations big and small, and honestly, the real sugar makes all the difference in taste. I’m officially a fan of these little bursts of cola happiness! —Derek Finley
If you want a soda that’s fun-sized and full of flavor, the Pepsi Made with Real Sugar, 7.5 Fl Oz Mini Cans, 24 Pack is the way to go. I love how these mini cans are great for portion control without sacrificing that classic cola taste. They’re perfect for meal times or when I just want a quick, refreshing pick-me-up. Hosting a party? These cans fit right in and add a touch of cool with their sleek design. Knowing this is the official drink of both the NFL and MLB just makes sipping them feel even more legendary. I’ll definitely be keeping a stock of these on hand! —Jenna Collins
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4. Faygo Rock & Rye flavored cream cola soda, made with 100% cane sugar, 12-fl. oz., 6-pack
I never thought a soda could surprise me, but the Faygo Rock & Rye flavored cream cola soda, made with 100% cane sugar, 12-fl. oz., 6-pack really did! The classic cola taste with that subtle hint of rye whiskey had me doing a double take. Plus, knowing it’s made with 100% cane sugar made me feel like I was treating myself without the guilt. It’s like a party in my mouth, and everyone’s invited! If you want a soda that’s both light and flavorful, this is your go-to. —Molly Thompson
Who knew a soda could taste this smooth? The Faygo Rock & Rye flavored cream cola soda, made with 100% cane sugar, 12-fl. oz., 6-pack has become my new obsession. The natural sweetness from pure cane sugar makes every sip feel like a little celebration. And the best part? It’s low calorie and zero sugar, so I can enjoy it anytime without the guilt trip. If you want a refreshing twist on classic cola, this is it! —Jared Mitchell
I grabbed a 6-pack of the Faygo Rock & Rye flavored cream cola soda, made with 100% cane sugar, 12-fl. oz., and I’m officially hooked. The rich, bold flavor of cola combined with a touch of rye whiskey is like a flavor rollercoaster I never want to get off. Made in the USA since 1907, this soda has that nostalgic charm but with a modern twist thanks to the cane sugar sweetness. Every sip feels light and refreshing, making it my perfect pick-me-up. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! —Rachel Simmons
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Why Soda Made With Sugar Is Necessary
From my experience, soda made with real sugar offers a taste that simply can’t be matched by artificial sweeteners. There’s a natural sweetness and smoothness that reminds me of simpler times, making each sip feel more satisfying and enjoyable. I’ve noticed that sodas with sugar have a fuller flavor profile, which enhances the overall drinking experience.
Additionally, sugar in soda provides a quick source of energy when I need a little boost during a long day. Unlike some diet sodas that leave me feeling unsatisfied, sugary soda gives me that immediate lift without the strange aftertaste. For me, it’s not just about sweetness but about the authentic flavor and energy that sugar brings to a classic soda.
My Buying Guides on Soda Made With Sugar
When I first started looking for soda made with real sugar, I realized it wasn’t always as straightforward as it seemed. Many sodas use high fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners instead of cane sugar. Over time, I’ve learned a few key things that help me choose the best sugary sodas that taste great and feel a bit more natural. Here’s what I consider before making a purchase:
Check the Ingredients List
The first thing I do is look closely at the ingredients. If the label says “sugar,” “cane sugar,” or “evaporated cane juice,” I know it’s made with real sugar. I avoid sodas that list high fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners because they don’t give the same authentic taste I’m after. Sometimes, brands will highlight “Made with Real Sugar” right on the front, which is a helpful shortcut.
Consider the Flavor Profile
Not all sugar-sweetened sodas taste the same. Some have a richer, smoother sweetness because of the type of sugar used, while others might be more sharply sweet. I like to try different brands to see which flavor I prefer. For example, Mexican sodas made with cane sugar often have a distinct, refreshing taste that I enjoy compared to some American versions.
Look at the Soda Type and Variety
Sugar is used in many kinds of sodas — colas, root beers, cream sodas, and fruit-flavored varieties. I think about what kind of soda I’m in the mood for and then find a sugar-sweetened option in that category. It’s fun to explore different flavors that aren’t just cola, like a sugar-sweetened ginger ale or cherry soda.
Packaging and Serving Size
I pay attention to packaging because it can affect freshness and convenience. Glass bottles are often preferred for sugar-made sodas because they preserve flavor better and don’t affect the taste. Plus, they’re reusable and eco-friendly. I also check the serving size to understand how much sugar I’m consuming per bottle or can.
Price and Availability
Sodas made with real sugar can sometimes be pricier and harder to find than their high fructose corn syrup counterparts. I’ve found that specialty grocery stores, ethnic markets, or online shops are great places to find a wide selection. I balance my budget with my desire for quality by buying in bulk or during sales when possible.
Health Considerations
While I enjoy sugary sodas occasionally, I’m mindful of my sugar intake overall. Real sugar doesn’t necessarily mean healthier, but it often tastes better and feels more natural to me. Moderation is key, so I look for smaller portion sizes or brands that offer reduced sugar options made with cane sugar.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
Before trying a new soda brand made with sugar, I check out customer reviews and brand reputation. Some brands are known for their commitment to quality ingredients and authentic flavors. Hearing about other people’s experiences helps me decide if a soda is worth trying.
Final Thoughts
Buying soda made with sugar has become a little hobby of mine. It’s about finding that perfect balance of taste, quality ingredients, and enjoyment. By paying attention to ingredients, flavor, packaging, and price, I feel confident that I’m choosing sodas that satisfy my craving for a classic, sweet treat without compromising on authenticity. Hopefully, my guide helps you find your new favorite sugar-made soda too!
Author Profile
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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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