Strange But True: IRN BRU Tastes Like…
IRN BRU is a Scottish soft drink that has a unique taste that has been described as a cross between bubble gum and medicine. The drink has been around for over a century, and its flavor has remained largely unchanged. So, what exactly makes IRN BRU taste the way it does? And who are the people who love to drink it?
Strange But True: IRN BRU Tastes Like…
A Brief History of IRN BRU
IRN-BRU was created in 1901 by two Scottish entrepreneurs, Robert Barr and Andrew Walker. The original recipe for IRN-BRU was a closely guarded secret, known only to a handful of people. The unique flavor of IRN-BRU was achieved by blending different fruit juices, herbs, and spices.
Despite its name, IRN-BRU does not actually contain iron or bruise (the Scottish word for broth). The name was chosen to be catchy and memorable.
IRN-BRU became very popular in Scotland and is now the country’s second most popular soft drink after Coca-Cola. It is also popular in other parts of the UK, particularly Northern Ireland.
The Taste of IRN BRU
IRN-BRU has a very distinctive taste that is hard to describe. It has been described as “a cross between candyfloss and diesel fuel” and “like nothing else on Earth”. The flavor is often compared to that of cream soda or root beer.
Some people love the taste of IRN-BRU, while others find it too sweet or artificial tasting. There are also those who say that they can’t stand the taste but continue to drink it because they “love the buzz”.
So what does IRN-BRU actually taste like? You’ll just have to try it for yourself!
Why Does IRN BRU Taste Like That?
The Flavors of IRN BRU
The main flavor in IRN BRU is caramel, which is achieved through the use of a caramel coloring. Other flavors include citrus, berry, and vanilla. These flavors are achieved through the use of natural flavoring agents.
In addition to the caramel coloring, IRN BRU contains two other colorings: Ponceau 4R (E124) and Allura Red AC (E129). Ponceau 4R is a red coloring that is sometimes used in foods and cosmetics. Allura Red AC is an orange-red coloring that is often used in sodas and candies.
The taste of IRN BRU has been described as “sweet but not cloying, with a subtle bitterness.” The sweetness comes from the caramel andfruit flavors, while the bitterness comes from the quinine. Quinine is a bitter compound that is found in tonic water. It is also used as a flavoring agent in some bitters and liqueurs.
The Unusual Color of IRN BRU
IRN BRU gets its distinctive color from the caramel coloring and the two other colorings mentioned above. However, it also contains another ingredient that gives it its orange-red hue: beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is a yellow-orange pigment that is found in plants. It is often used as a food coloring or as a dietary supplement.
Who Drinks IRN BRU?
IRN BRU Fans
IRN BRU fans are a passionate bunch. They love the drink for its unique taste and unrivaled ability to give them a much-needed caffeine kick. Many of them are also proud of the fact that IRN BRU is made in Scotland, and see it as a true Scottish icon.
There are many dedicated IRN BRU fan websites and online forums where people share their love for the drink and discuss all things IRN BRU-related. Some fans even go so far as to collect IRN BRU cans and bottles from different years or with special designs.
IRN BRU in Popular Culture
IRN BRU has been featured in a number of popular TV shows and movies over the years. In one episode of The Simpsons, Homer Simpson is seen drinking IRN BRU instead of beer. In another episode, Bart Simpson tries to smuggle some cans of IRN BRU into the United States from Scotland.
movie The Da Vinci Code features a scene in which characters sip on IRN BRUs while discussing a key plot point. And in movie T2 Trainspotting, one of the main characters is seen guzzling down an IRN BRU to help him cope with withdrawal symptoms.
In conclusion, IRN BRU does indeed have a strange but true taste that is hard to describe. While some people love it, others find it an acquired taste. However, there is no denying that IRN BRU is a unique drink with a flavor all its own. So, if you’re feeling adventurous, why not give it a try? You just might be surprised at what you discover.