Ribena: Difference between revisions

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'''Ribena''' is a British-originated brand of blackcurrant-based uncarbonated and carbonated soft drink and fruit drink concentrate. It was produced by [[GlaxoSmithKline]] (GSK) until 2013, when the brand was sold to [[Suntory]]. The name 'Ribena' comes from the botanical name for the blackcurrant species, ''[[Ribes nigrum]]''.
{{short description|A blackcurrant-based soft drink}}
{{Use British English|date=October 2023}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}


== History ==
[[File:Ribena_logo_22.svg|thumb|right|The Ribena logo]]
Ribena was first manufactured by the Bristol-based food and drink company [[H.W. Carter]] as a vitamin C supplement during the Second World War. Its blackcurrant flavour was derived from the high concentration of blackcurrant plants in the UK, due to the ban on importing fruits like oranges during the war.


In 1955, Ribena was acquired by the pharmaceutical company [[Beecham]], which later merged with [[SmithKline Beckman]] to form SmithKline Beecham. SmithKline Beecham then merged with [[Glaxo Wellcome]] to form GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). In 2013, GSK sold Ribena and another soft drink brand, [[Lucozade]], to the Japanese multinational [[Suntory]].
'''Ribena''' is a brand of fruit-based soft drink originally created in the United Kingdom. It is made from [[blackcurrant]]s and is known for its distinctive taste and high vitamin C content. The drink is available in various forms, including ready-to-drink bottles and concentrated syrups.


== Products ==
==History==
Ribena comes in a variety of forms, including a concentrated syrup that is diluted with water before drinking, a ready-to-drink formula in bottles or cartons, and a carbonated version. The original blackcurrant flavour is the most well-known, but Ribena also produces drinks flavoured with strawberry, raspberry, and pomegranate.
Ribena was first developed in the 1930s by Dr. Vernon Charley at the [[University of Bristol]]. The drink was initially created as a blackcurrant syrup to provide a source of vitamin C. During [[World War II]], Ribena became popular in the UK due to the scarcity of citrus fruits, which were the primary source of vitamin C at the time.


== Health Controversy ==
==Production==
In 2007, Ribena faced controversy when it was discovered that its claims of high vitamin C content were false. The issue was brought to light by two high school students in New Zealand, who found that the ready-to-drink Ribena contained almost no trace of vitamin C. This led to legal action against GlaxoSmithKline, which resulted in a fine and a public apology.
Ribena is made from blackcurrants, which are rich in vitamin C. The production process involves extracting juice from the blackcurrants and then concentrating it to create a syrup. This syrup can be diluted with water to make a drink. Ribena is available in various flavors and formulations, including sugar-free versions.


== In Popular Culture ==
==Varieties==
Ribena has been referenced in various aspects of British popular culture, including music, television, and literature. It is often associated with childhood and nostalgia due to its long history and widespread popularity in the UK.
Ribena is available in several varieties, including:
* Original Blackcurrant
* Light Blackcurrant (sugar-free)
* Sparkling Blackcurrant
* Mixed Berry
 
[[File:Ribena_blackcurrant_juice_drink.jpg|thumb|left|A bottle of Ribena blackcurrant juice drink]]
 
==Nutritional Information==
Ribena is known for its high vitamin C content, which is derived from the blackcurrants used in its production. The drink is often marketed as a healthy beverage option, although some formulations contain added sugars.
 
==Marketing and Branding==
Ribena has undergone several rebranding efforts over the years. The brand is recognized by its distinctive purple packaging and logo. Marketing campaigns have often focused on the health benefits of blackcurrants and the drink's refreshing taste.
 
==Controversies==
In the past, Ribena has faced scrutiny over its sugar content and marketing claims. Efforts have been made to reformulate the drink to reduce sugar levels and offer healthier options.
 
==Related pages==
* [[Blackcurrant]]
* [[Soft drink]]
* [[Vitamin C]]


[[Category:Soft drinks]]
[[Category:Soft drinks]]
[[Category:British brands]]
[[Category:British brands]]
[[Category:Suntory]]
[[Category:Products introduced in 1938]]
{{drink-stub}}

Latest revision as of 19:16, 21 February 2025

A blackcurrant-based soft drink



File:Ribena logo 22.svg
The Ribena logo

Ribena is a brand of fruit-based soft drink originally created in the United Kingdom. It is made from blackcurrants and is known for its distinctive taste and high vitamin C content. The drink is available in various forms, including ready-to-drink bottles and concentrated syrups.

History[edit]

Ribena was first developed in the 1930s by Dr. Vernon Charley at the University of Bristol. The drink was initially created as a blackcurrant syrup to provide a source of vitamin C. During World War II, Ribena became popular in the UK due to the scarcity of citrus fruits, which were the primary source of vitamin C at the time.

Production[edit]

Ribena is made from blackcurrants, which are rich in vitamin C. The production process involves extracting juice from the blackcurrants and then concentrating it to create a syrup. This syrup can be diluted with water to make a drink. Ribena is available in various flavors and formulations, including sugar-free versions.

Varieties[edit]

Ribena is available in several varieties, including:

  • Original Blackcurrant
  • Light Blackcurrant (sugar-free)
  • Sparkling Blackcurrant
  • Mixed Berry
A bottle of Ribena blackcurrant juice drink

Nutritional Information[edit]

Ribena is known for its high vitamin C content, which is derived from the blackcurrants used in its production. The drink is often marketed as a healthy beverage option, although some formulations contain added sugars.

Marketing and Branding[edit]

Ribena has undergone several rebranding efforts over the years. The brand is recognized by its distinctive purple packaging and logo. Marketing campaigns have often focused on the health benefits of blackcurrants and the drink's refreshing taste.

Controversies[edit]

In the past, Ribena has faced scrutiny over its sugar content and marketing claims. Efforts have been made to reformulate the drink to reduce sugar levels and offer healthier options.

Related pages[edit]