What is a fountain beverage comprised of?

Water, syrup and CO₂. It’s really simple, but there are a few key considerations to ensure your customers have the best beverage experience possible.

A fountain drink is about 84% water.

High-quality water is very important, not only does it ensure a great tasting beverage, it produces high-quality ice. A water filtration system must be used in order to remove chemical tastes, minimize wear and tear on equipment and maximize the quality of a beverage.

Syrup adds the desired flavor.

Every post-mix drink is about 1/5 syrup and it is what delivers the flavor of the beverage. Syrup can be separated into two groups: diet syrup without sugar that is artificially sweetened, or sugar syrup sweetened with sugar, high fructose corn syrup, and more recently, cane sugar. These syrups are available in Bag-In-Box (B-I-B) packaging—a one-way container that is available in five gallon and two and a half gallon sizes.

CO2 adds the sparkling effervescence.

CO₂ is used to carbonate water for beverages and push syrup through the tubing system on a unit. CO₂ can be stored in either low-pressure bulk tanks or high-pressure cylinders. Bulk tanks are permanently installed and refilled on site. Bulk tanks have a lower possibility of leaking. Cylinders or bottles are designed to be returned for refilling.

If you take care to use only the highest quality ingredients, your Cornelius fountain beverage dispenser will deliver consistently-delicious, satisfying beverages that will generate loyal customers and a highly-profitable business.