Grapefruit soda originated in the early 20th century, with the first commercially successful brand, Squirt, introduced in the United States in 1938. The soda is typically made with carbonated water, grapefruit juice or flavoring, and sweeteners, resulting in a distinctively tart, citrusy profile balanced by sugar.
Other prominent variants include Fresca (launched by Coca-Cola in 1966 with a calorie-free formula) and Jarritos Toronja (introduced in Mexico in the 1950s). Flavor profiles vary very sweet to dry and slightly bitter, with undertones of lemon or lime.
Grapefruit sodas are common mixers in cocktails; notably, they are used in the Mexican Paloma.
