After several hours of yard work under the sun, an hour of working out at the gym, or a day at the beach you are probably craving something cold and refreshing.

Ice cold water, cold beer, fruit juices and smoothies are the go-to refreshing drinks of a lot of people,but seltzers are quickly growing in popularity these days.

What are seltzers?

Seltzers are carbonated drinks made by dissolving carbon dioxide gas in water. Because of the carbonation, they contain small bubbles that you also see in soft drinks and sodas. There are soft seltzers and hard seltzers, depending on whether or not they contain alcohol. Soft seltzers do not while hard seltzers do.

What are some interesting facts about seltzer?

1. Seltzer’s history originated in Germany

When we talk about German beverages, one of the first things that probably comes to mind is beer. But did you know that the country is also where seltzers started? In the 16th century in a small town called Selters in the Niderselters district, the bubbly waters of the natural springs in the area were used for medicinal purposes. While the people back then did not use seltzer the same way as we do now, the special waters were seen as a symbol of health and wealth.

2. It has many names

Depending on where you are located, you might know seltzer under a different name. In the United States, this carbonated water drink is commonly called seltzer or seltzer water. In other parts of the world, it might be known as fizzy water, sparkling water, or soda water.

3. The first canned hard seltzers were introduced in 2013

It was in 2013 when the first canned hard seltzer brand came into the scene. And due to immediate popularity, several other brands were created soon after. Made with low sugar, these canned hard seltzers undergo a similar fermentation process as beer and are as enjoyable and refreshing to drink.

4. It can be a good alternative to water

Like water, seltzers are hydrating and can help cool you down. And due to their carbonation, they have increased acid levels that can kill bacteria. Because there are many brands to choose from, you can find the right one for you by looking up and going through seltzer recommendations, top hard seltzer brands, best sparkling water, or truly hard seltzer reviews on the Internet. These seltzer recommendations, top hard seltzer brands, best sparkling water, or truly hard seltzer reviews can hopefully lead you to a seltzer product that perfectly suits your taste.

5. It can be used for cooking

If you enjoy cooking and are open to trying something new, try using seltzers the next time you prepare your favorite meals. Seltzers can be a good substitute for alcohol, wine, beer, or water to cook meat, vegetables, pastries, and more. They are lower in calories and sugar too, so they can be a good alternative for those wanting to reduce their sugar intake.