(NewsNation) — The “dirty soda” fad solidified by TikTok videos and the Hulu show “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” shows no sign of ebbing, whether your physician likes it or not.
Swig, the Sandy, Utah-based chain that specializes in the niche beverage at 125 locations in 16 states, recently announced aggressive plans to expand and across the U.S. And TikTokers continue to post recipes for the caloric pick-me-ups using the telltale hashtag #dirtysoda (Grinch Dirty Soda, anyone?).
A quick refresher on the definition of dirty soda. The drink typically blends a core soda brand such as Coke, Sprite or Dr. Pepper with syrups, creamers or fruit juice — sometimes all of them. The calorie count can go into the hundreds, depending on the ingredients and serving size.
What is ‘dirty soda’?
The idea behind the basic concoction is believed to have originated in Utah as an alternative drink for members of the Mormon Church, who are not supposed to consume alcohol, coffee or tea.
Caffeinated soda is allowed, however, and stars of the “Mormon Wives” program have become known for kicking back with the so-called dirty variety.
Health professionals are not necessarily amused. Regular consumption of sugary soft drinks — let alone augmenting them with sugary syrups and dense creamers — is already considered an unhealthy practice that can lead to chronic illnesses.
“I think these drinks are risky for anyone wanting to maintain their weight and health,” registered dietitian and nutritional therapist Kim Shapira told Nexstar Media in a 2024 article on dirty sodas.
While the occasional dirty soda may be appropriate as a treat, they are not a dietary staple, Shapira stressed.
