Soda Delivery or Pickup

Yes, you can still drink soda after the expiration date listed on the package. Diet soda is good for up to 4 months after the expiration date, while regular soda with full sugar can last for up to 9 months after the listed expiration date. However, you may find that the flavor and carbonation are better preserved when you drink the soda before the date listed on the packaging.

Most sodas are available in both plastic bottles and aluminum cans. Some manufacturers also offer glass bottles. If you're looking for the most eco-friendly option, aluminum cans that are made from 100% recycled materials are best. However, most cans have just 68% recycled materials. 

If you must choose a newly manufactured container, glass is the best choice for the environment. Most glass bottles are made from 20-30% recycled materials, and the process of sourcing the materials used for glass is easier on the environment.

Producing plastic bottles releases less carbon than making aluminum, but fewer plastic bottles are recycled, and a plastic bottle typically has just 3% recycled material. There's no clear cut answer on which option is best, but you can reduce your impact on the environment by recycling any container that you choose.

Caffeine content varies by soda. Most sodas contain between 10-60mg of caffeine. Energy drinks contain more than twice this amount. Ritz cola has a particularly low caffeine content at 10.3mg, while Pepsi One has 57.1mg. Though Mountain Dew is notorious for having a lot of caffeine, it only contains 55mg.

In comparison, a single cup of coffee has 95mg of caffeine. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, which is why it's a popular choice when people are feeling tired and sluggish. Caffeine makes some people feel alert and energetic. Caffeine can also help with headaches and migraines. However, too much caffeine can cause anxiety, insomnia, and an upset stomach. If you'd like to limit your caffeine intake, consider choosing caffeine-free soda.

You may have heard that drinking soda can stain your teeth. This is primarily due to the sugar and acidity in the drink. Dark-colored sodas may stain your teeth a bit more than clear sodas, but both can wear away tooth enamel and cause decay. The best way to combat this problem is to rinse your mouth with water after drinking soda. This will wash away the sugary residue that can linger on your teeth.

Don't brush your teeth right after drinking soda, as this can wear away enamel that's been softened by the soda's acidity. Rather, brush your teeth later in the day using a fluoride-rich toothpaste to help protect your enamel. You can pick up toothpaste alongside your soda through Instacart and get everything you need in one delivery.