Mountain Dew

Mountain Dew is a carbonated soft drink brand produced and owned by PepsiCo. The original formula was invented in 1940 by Tennessee beverage bottlers Barney and Ally Hartman. A revised formula was created by Bill Bridgforth in 1958. The rights to this formula were obtained by the Tip Corporation of Marion, Virginia. William H. "Bill" Jones of the Tip Corporation further refined the formula, launching that version of Mountain Dew in 1961. In August 1964, the Mountain Dew brand and production rights were acquired from Tip by the Pepsi-Cola company, and Mountain Dew has since been marketed and distributed by PepsiCo.

History

Mountain Dew's original formula was created in the 1940s by Barney and Ally Hartman, beverage bottlers in Tennessee. The Hartmans had difficulty in Knoxville obtaining their preferred soda to mix with liquor, preferably whiskey, so they developed their own. Originally a mixer, Mountain Dew was trademarked by the Hartmans in 1948. The name "Mountain Dew" was a term used for moonshine at the time.

In 1958, Bill Bridgforth revised the formula, and in 1961, the Tip Corporation of Marion, Virginia, further refined the drink, with William H. "Bill" Jones finalizing the formula. PepsiCo acquired the brand in 1964 and expanded its distribution across the United States and, eventually, around the world.

Variants

Over the years, Mountain Dew has introduced various flavors and variants, including Diet Mountain Dew, Code Red, Mountain Dew Voltage, and Mountain Dew Baja Blast, among others. Limited edition flavors and regional variants have also been produced, catering to different tastes and preferences.

Marketing

Mountain Dew is known for its engaging and high-energy marketing campaigns. The brand has been associated with extreme sports, video gaming, and youth culture. Its marketing slogans, such as "Do the Dew" and "It's Dew Time," emphasize action and adventure.

Ingredients

The primary ingredients in Mountain Dew include carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, citric acid, natural flavors, sodium benzoate (preserves freshness), caffeine, sodium citrate, erythorbic acid (preserves freshness), gum arabic, and yellow 5. The caffeine content in Mountain Dew is higher than in many other soft drinks.

Health Concerns

Mountain Dew, like many sugary soft drinks, has been linked to health issues such as tooth decay, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. The drink's high caffeine content has also raised concerns regarding caffeine dependence and its effects on the body.

In Popular Culture

Mountain Dew has made its mark on popular culture, being referenced in songs, movies, and television shows. The brand has also engaged in various collaborations with artists, gamers, and athletes, further solidifying its presence in the entertainment and sports industries.

See Also

• PepsiCo
• Soft drink
• Caffeine
• High fructose corn syrup