When customers crack open a fizzy drink, the first thing they notice isn’t the flavour, it’s the fizz. That sharp burst of carbonation, the refreshing tingle on the tongue, and the rising bubbles all play a crucial role in how a drink tastes, smells, and even sells. 

For UK retailers, takeaways, cafés, and fast-food shops, understanding the science behind carbonation can dramatically influence your drink selection and ultimately impact sales. Fizzy drinks are not all created equal, and the level of carbonation can determine which ones your customers keep buying again and again. 

If you stock fizzy drinks from our Fizzy Drinks category here at Magna Foodservice, knowing the carbonation differences helps you build a profitable, better-performing menu. 

Why Carbonation Matters More Than You Think? 

Carbonation is simply carbon dioxide (CO₂) dissolved under pressure. When you open a can or bottle, pressure is released and bubbles escape, creating the signature “fizz”. 

But this process does much more than add bubbles. 

Keyways carbonation changes the drinking experience: 

  • Changes Flavour Perception: Higher carbonation increases acidity, making drinks taste sharper and more refreshing. Lower carbonation feels smoother and sweeter. 
  • Affects Aroma and Flavour Release: CO₂ carries aromatic compounds to your nose, meaning flavours literally “lift” with the bubbles. 
  • Impacts Mouthfeel: High-fizz drinks feel crisp and punchy. Low-fizz drinks feel mellow and easy to sip. 
  • Influences Perceived Coldness:  Carbonation enhances the feeling of chill, making fizzy drinks taste better when served cold, which is why storing them correctly matters. 

All of this affects what customers choose and whether they return for the same drink again. 

High Carbonation vs Low Carbonation: What Sells Better? 

Different foodservice environments attract different preferences. Here’s how carbonation levels influence sales in real-world UK settings: 

High-Carbonation Drinks (Sharp, Bubbly, Refreshing) 

Examples: Coca-Cola, Pepsi, 7UP, imported EU fizzy drinks, Mirinda 

These drinks are ideal for: 

  • Takeaways 
  • Fast-food shops 
  • Fried chicken places 
  • Burger businesses 
  • Pizza delivery shops 

High-fizz drinks cut through greasy or salty foods, making them perfect for pairing with fast food. That’s why many of our best-selling fizzy cans in the Fizzy Drinks category have high carbonation levels. 

Medium-Carbonation Drinks (Balanced Fizz) 

Examples: Fruit-flavoured fizzy drinks, lightly sparkling European imports 

These perform well in: 

  • Cafés 
  • Bakeries 
  • Sandwich shops 
  • Coffee shops 

They offer refreshment without overpowering delicate foods. 

Low-Carbonation Drinks (Light Sparkle) 

Examples: Lightly sparkling waters 

Commonly sold in: 

  • Restaurants 
  • Healthy food shops 
  • Salads and brunch cafés 

You can browse options like these in the Sparkling Water category. 

Why Imported Fizzy Drinks Often Taste Better? 

Many retailers notice that European imported Pepsi, Coca-Cola, 7UP, and Mirinda feel “smoother” or more “refreshing”. 

That’s because: 

  • EU formulas often use slightly different carbonation levels. 
  • Bottling plants in Europe use finer carbonation bubbles. 
  • Some flavours are produced with regional ingredients. 

Retailers stock EU-imported drinks because consumers feel the difference and come back for it. You’ll find popular imported options throughout our Fizzy Drinks range. 

How Carbonation Influences Buying Behaviour? 

Carbonation can create emotional and sensory effects that drive sales: 

1. The “Experience” Factor

The sound of opening a fizzy can, the crackling bubbles these micro-moments create craving and brand loyalty. 

2. The Refreshment Factor

Higher fizz = more perceived refreshment. 

This boosts sales on warm days and in takeaway environments. 

3. The Balance Factor

Carbonation balances sweetness. Drinks with heavier carbonation don’t taste as sugary, which appeals to health-conscious shoppers. 

4. The Food Pairing Factor

Customers instinctively select drinks that complement their food: 

  • High fizz with fried foods. 
  • Medium fizz with pastries or sandwiches. 
  • Low fizz with light meals. 

This is why stocking a variety of carbonation levels is essential. 

Choosing the Right Carbonation Levels for Your Business 

Here’s how retailers can build a profitable fizzy drink selection: 

1. Match Carbonation to Your Food Menu 

  • Fast food = high fizzy drinks 
  • Bakeries = balanced fizz 
  • Restaurants = lighter fizz 

This ensures customers get the best pairing experience and makes drinks easier to upsell. 

For support, explore our Soft Drinks and Fizzy Drinks collections. 

2. Offer Brand Variety, Especially Imports 

Imported EU cans are some of the most in-demand drinks we supply because of their smoother carbonation. 

3. Stock Multiple Formats (Cans & Bottles) 

Carbonation behaves differently in cans and bottles, and this influences customer preference. 

You’ll find both formats across our drinks categories. 

4. Train Staff to Store Fizzy Drinks Correctly 

Proper storage preserves carbonation, taste, and freshness. Chilled storage is best for fast-selling fizzy drinks. 

How Carbonation Influences Profit Margins? 

Higher-carbonation drinks typically: 

  • Sell faster 
  • Deliver stronger repeat sales 
  • Pair better with high-margin foods 
  • Offer better upsell opportunities 

This makes them one of the simplest profit boosters in any foodservice business.