When American pharmacist John Stith Pemberton created the formula for what would become Coca-Cola in 1886, it sparked a global soft drink revolution. Today, it’s possible to buy Coca-Cola in nearly every country, but many entrepreneurs and governments have created regional alternatives that incorporate native ingredients and novel formulas.

Regional Cola Alternatives

One example is Kofola, a Czech take on cola that was created during the Cold War. It has a secret recipe of 14 herbal and fruit extracts, plus caffeine, and has 30% less sugar than Coca-Cola. Another example is Cockta, a Yugoslavian cola that was created in 1952 and has a unique flavor profile that includes pomegranate, lemon, and orange.

Other regional cola alternatives include Ojaja, a Nigerian cola that is made with 100% indigenous ingredients, and Toba Toba Cola, a Japanese cola that is made with native shiiku citrus fruit and raw brown sugar. There’s also Brio Chinotto, a Canadian cola that is made with a citrus fruit extract and has a bittersweet flavor.

These regional cola alternatives offer a unique taste experience and often have a strong local following. They also reflect the cultural and economic context of their respective countries and regions.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.