Dirty Soda Trend Sweeps Canada, Fueled by Pop Culture and Social Media

The “dirty soda” trend, which originated in the U.S., has officially bubbled over into Canada. Thanks to the growing popularity of viral shows like The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives and social media buzz, this unique soda concoction is fast becoming the latest craze in Canada. What started as a quirky drink with cream, fruity flavors, and cola has turned into a full-blown business opportunity across the country.

What is Dirty Soda?

Dirty soda is a fizzy, fun drink that mixes sodas like cola with cream, syrups, and exciting toppings. Its bold flavors and eye-catching appearance have made it popular, especially on Instagram. The drinks stand out with their colorful presentation, often topped with cold foam, marshmallow fluff, and fruit purees, drawing in fans eager to try new flavor combinations and snap a picture of the vibrant creations.

The trend first took off in the U.S., and now Canadian businesses are cashing in. Sip Soda Co., based in Sherwood Park, Alberta, is one of the first to bring dirty soda to Canada. After a visit to a soda stand in Idaho, Jeremy Guenette, the owner, decided to bring this concept back home. Now, the shop serves over 100 different combinations of the fizzy drinks, each with a unique twist.

Pop Culture Ignites the Trend

While dirty soda was already gaining popularity in the U.S., it wasn’t until The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives that it made its mainstream debut in Canada. The reality show frequently showed the stars sipping dirty sodas, sparking curiosity among viewers who were eager to try the trendy drink.

B.C. sisters Mikayla and Brooklynn Cantelon saw an opportunity to bring Pop Culture Dirty Soda to the Lower Mainland. After experimenting with the drink at home and sharing their creations on social media, they launched a successful trailer business. Their menu, which features drinks named after celebrities like Taylor Swift, adds a unique, personal twist to the experience.

The Appeal of Dirty Soda in Canada

Dirty sodas have quickly gained a loyal following in Canada, especially among younger audiences who are looking for something new and exciting. The drinks are seen as “destination beverages”—something worth seeking out, just like trendy coffee shops or new fast-food items. They are perfect for the Instagram generation, with their bold colors and fun toppings.

The popularity of dirty soda is also fueled by the increasing trend toward customization. Customers can choose from various syrups, toppings, and creams to create a drink that’s truly their own. This customization aspect is particularly appealing to the younger crowd, who enjoy experimenting with their flavors and sharing their creations online.

A Growing Industry

The dirty soda movement is poised for continued growth in Canada. It is already showing signs of becoming a staple in summer fairs, independent businesses, and even major national chains. Fast-food chains like McDonald’s and cookie shops like Crumbl are testing the waters with dirty sodas, and independent shops are popping up across the country to meet demand.

For entrepreneurs like Guenette and the Cantelons, the dirty soda trend is a chance to stand out in the beverage industry. Guenette, who owns Sip Soda Co., is thinking about adding a drive-thru to his business. Meanwhile, the Cantelons are planning to open a second trailer to keep up with the growing demand. This trend is helping their businesses grow while offering fun, creative drinks to more people.

The Future of Dirty Soda

Dirty sodas aren’t just a passing fad; they’re part of a bigger change in the beverage industry. As consumers move away from traditional soft drinks, they’re seeking something more exciting. With their fun and customizable options, dirty sodas are attracting more fans. It’s likely this fizzy trend will keep growing, becoming a regular option on menus across Canada.

More…

• https://www.overheretoronto.com/mcdonalds-launches-new-dirty-soda-lineup-across-500-u-s-restaurants
• https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/dirty-soda-trend-arrives-in-canada-as-mormon-wives-series-shakes-up-interest-1.7605681 
• https://www.ctvnews.ca/business/article/dirty-soda-trend-bubbles-up-to-canada-with-mormon-wives-as-inspiration