master-cooks | The Pricey Root Beer You Should Avoid Buying

When it comes to root beer, most enthusiasts appreciate the nostalgic blend of sweet and spicy flavors that can transport one back to simpler times. However, not every root beer offers good value, and some are better left on the shelf. One such example is a brand that, despite its high price tag, fails to deliver on taste and quality. Many consumers report that this particular root beer lacks the traditional creamy and robust flavor profile expected from a premium brew. Instead, it presents an overly sweet and synthetic taste, resembling more of an artificial candy than a classic root beer. The carbonation is often criticized for being too sharp, overshadowing the subtle vanilla and licorice notes that should be prominent. Additionally, the aftertaste is unpleasantly bitter, lingering long after the initial sip. The packaging may look appealing, often promising an artisanal experience, but the contents rarely live up to the promise. For those who seek a genuine root beer experience, it's wise to invest in brands with a proven track record of quality and authenticity, ensuring that every sip is both refreshing and satisfying. Avoid being swayed by fancy marketing and high prices, and instead, choose a root beer that truly honors the cherished flavors of this classic beverage.

Is Poppi's root beer representative of the brand as a whole?

Jennifer Geer points out that the issue with Poppi is that "prebiotics and root beer simply don't mix." She acknowledged that it was the only low-sugar, relatively healthy beverage on her list, so it may not be entirely fair to compare it to traditional full-sugar root beers. However, she noted that even when compared to other diet beverages, Poppi Prebiotic Root Beer would still score low. The taste was "nothing like root beer," she remarked, and it was so unusual that she could only manage a single sip.

A 12-ounce can is priced at $2.45 at Geer's local grocery store, while a 12-pack costs $29.88 on Amazon, making it one of the pricier root beers we tried. Yet, considering Poppi's health-focused approach to soda, it might be worth trying a different flavor despite the price. After all, it remains cheaper than some other artisanal health drinks, and finding a healthier soda option is always a positive change. While we rated Poppi's Strawberry Lemon flavor slightly higher among popular diet sodas, writer Robyn Blocker still found the apple cider vinegar taste to be quite strong.

The brand's fruit flavors likely align better with its prebiotic formulation than root beer does, but they still appear to be an acquired taste. Originally named Mother Earth, Poppi rebranded in 2020 after appearing on "Shark Tank," and it has become one of the leading prebiotic sodas available. However, the company has recently encountered legal challenges regarding claims that its alleged gut health benefits are overstated.

The Pricey Root Beer You Should Avoid Buying

Is Poppi's root beer representative of the brand as a whole?

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