7-up

7-Up is a brand of a lemon-lime-flavored non-caffeinated soft drink. The origins of 7-Up date back to 1929, when it was created by Charles Leiper Grigg in St. Louis, Missouri, United States. Initially introduced as "Bib-Label Lithiated Lemon-Lime Soda," the beverage was later renamed "7-Up Lithiated Lemon Soda" before finally being shortened to "7-Up." The original formula contained lithium citrate, a mood-stabilizing drug, until it was removed in 1950.

History

The development of 7-Up was the result of Charles Leiper Grigg's efforts to create a distinctive soft drink that would compete in the crowded market of the late 1920s. Grigg's initial product, a orange-flavored soft drink named "Whistle," provided him with the experience necessary to launch his own company, The Howdy Corporation. It was under this company that 7-Up was born, initially marketed as a healthful drink due to the inclusion of lithium citrate.

Throughout its history, 7-Up has undergone several rebrandings and formula changes. The most notable change was the removal of lithium citrate in 1950, well before the U.S. Food and Drug Administration banned the substance in soft drinks in 1969. The brand has also expanded its product line to include diet versions and various flavor variations.

Marketing

7-Up has been known for its innovative and memorable marketing campaigns. One of the most iconic slogans, "Make 7 Up Yours," showcased the brand's playful use of language and helped rejuvenate its image during the late 1990s and early 2000s. The brand has also been associated with various mascots over the years, including the 7-Up Spot and Fido Dido.

Variants

Over the years, 7-Up has introduced several variants to cater to diverse consumer preferences. These include:

• Diet 7-Up: A no-calorie version of the original, sweetened with artificial sweeteners.
• Cherry 7-Up: Introduced in the 1980s, this variant features a cherry flavoring mixed with the traditional lemon-lime base.
• 7-Up Ten: Launched as part of a line of ten-calorie soft drinks by Dr Pepper Snapple Group, offering the full flavors of the original with fewer calories.

In Popular Culture

7-Up has made numerous appearances in popular culture, including its use in the "Uncola" advertising campaign of the 1970s, which positioned it as a unique alternative to cola drinks. The brand has also been featured in various films, television shows, and video games, further cementing its status as a cultural icon.

See Also

• Soft drink
• Lemon-lime drink
• Caffeine-free drink
• Diet soda