Carbonated Beverage Consumption among UK University Students

This work examined carbonated beverage consumption among 303 UK university students (132 males, 171 females) and assessed their current beliefs concerning the personal carbonated beverage consumption and preferences. Participants completed a questionnaire that was constructed using an online survey service tool (Bristol Online Surveys). Two products from the Coca-Cola® Company and one product from the A.G. Barr Company were foremost, as the most preferred drinks among respondents. One tenth of the respondents are consuming a carbonated beverage at least once a day, among which one third consume at least two cans per drinking episode. The majority (53%) and (30%) consumed respectively a carbonated beverage once and twice a week. The responses demonstrated a higher tendency for females to use a straw to consume a carbonated beverage in comparison to males. The way drinks are presented seems to be of great significance to females. This study highlighted the current beliefs and preferences concerning the personal carbonated beverage consumption which can collectively help explain current consumption trends among UK university students. Carbonated beverage manufacturers can incorporate the findings of this work into future broader studies in order to better understand the market and the customer.