The natural flavors used in soda waters have been described. In addition to these, soda waters and other drinks often contain artificial flavors, that is synthetic flavoring matters produced by the chemist and which resemble more or less closely the natural flavors of fruits. These artificial flavors, although used in small quantity, are highly objectionable both upon ethical grounds and because of their possible injury to health. Even the sugar formerly was substituted in many cases by the artificial sweetener, saccharin, a very little of which would give an intensely sweet taste to a large volume of beverage. Since the inhibition of the use of saccharin in food products such as soft drinks, very little of it is now found and it may be regarded as on the road to speedy exclusion.

The increase in price of artificial colors and synthetic ethers which are largely used in making flavors has been of a considerable magnitude since the beginning of the European War. The manufacturers, it is stated, have endeavored to sell at the old prices, but this is difficult unless some sacrifice of the quality is made.. It would be a difficult task to give any idea of the nature of any of these particular flavors. They vary according to the wish and the skill of the manufacturer and the taste of the consumer. A very good rule would be to demand only natural flavors at the soda fountain. There would then be no danger of securing an artificial article which might contain a color not certified as being pure or some ingredient which possibly might be injurious to health. In a country like ours, where there is such an abundance of natural flavors of an unobjectionable character and where sugar is reasonably abundant and cheap, except in time of war, there can be no possible excuse for the substitution of artificial bodies for these natural products.