You’re stranded in the desert, the hot sun beating down on you relentlessly. Your mouth is dry as a bone, every step feels like your last. Far on the horizon, you see it: a sparkling glint of something reflecting the sun. The heat distorts your view, but you swear you can see two saguaro cacti—your salvation! You get closer and closer, only to make out something between them… words? Does that say… Cactus Cooler? And that’s when you realize you’re walking towards a can of soda. Hey, at least it’s wet. So what is this strange beverage that provides a brief respite for those lost and thirsty?
What is Cactus Cooler?
Cactus Cooler is an orange-pineapple flavored soda that is regional to Southern California and the surrounding Southwestern area. It stands out on the shelves with its bright orange can, funky logo, and picturesque view of two saguaro cacti framing a classic Southwestern mesa.
Cactus Cooler was created in 1966 by the company Canada Dry. I think all of Canada’s deserts are tundras, so it’s interesting to see our Northern neighbors dabbling in some Death Valley delicacies. Apparently, the drink was inspired by a joke in The Flintstones, where Fred has a drink called a “cactus coola.”
What does Cactus Cooler taste like?
Cactus Cooler makes the list of Sporked’s best of the best for orange sodas. While the taste is predominantly orange, the addition of pineapple makes it a subtler, yet more complex flavor that your typical orange soda offering.
A confession: I am not an orange soda fan and almost never drink it. But I can say that Cactus Cooler is one of the more palatable ones I’ve had and can suggest it to any other orange soda skeptics.
Does Cactus Cooler have caffeine?
Nope, it’s caffeine free! That puts it right up there with most ginger ales and root beers, making it safe for those of us who easily get the nighttime jitters.
Who makes Cactus Cooler?
Cactus Cooler was initially made by Canada Dry, who were acquired by Keurig Dr. Pepper in 2008.
Is Cactus Cooler discontinued?
So, I didn’t learn about Cactus Cooler until I moved to Los Angeles. Since I am not often looking for orange sodas, I never noticed its availability on the East Coast. So it may seem as though it was once more prevalent over there than it is today.
But the reality is Cactus Cooler is still alive and kicking; I see it everywhere in Los Angeles. So fellow Californians (and other folks living in the Southwest) have nothing to fear.
Where can you buy Cactus Cooler?
Everything is available on the internet, but if you live in “The Cactus Zone,” you’re likely to find it in any convenience store. Residents of Maine, I’m so sorry, but you live in “The Moose Zone.” I’ve never tasted moose milk but I think we got the better of the two drinks over here.
