Cel-Ray facts for kids
| Type | Soft drink |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Dr. Brown's |
| Distributor | J and R Bottling |
| Country of origin | Brooklyn, New York |
| Introduced | 1869 |
| Color | Golden |
| Flavor | Celery |
Cel-Ray is a unique soft drink with a special celery flavor. It's made by a company called Dr. Brown's. While it's a popular choice in places like New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and South Florida, it can be a bit harder to find in other parts of the world.
Contents
The Story of Cel-Ray Soda
Cel-Ray has a long and interesting history! It's one of the oldest sodas still around today.
How Cel-Ray Began
Dr. Brown's Celery Tonic, as it was first called, was created way back in 1868. It started in Brooklyn, New York. People first enjoyed it in local restaurants and delis starting in 1869. By 1886, you could buy it in bottles.
A Name Change for Cel-Ray
In the early 1900s, the drink's name changed. The Food and Drug Administration (a government group that checks food and medicine) didn't want it called a "tonic." So, the name became Dr. Brown's Cel-Ray soda.
What Does Cel-Ray Taste Like?
Cel-Ray gets its special taste from celery seed extract. Many people say it tastes a bit like ginger ale. But it also has a strong, peppery celery flavor that makes it very unique.
Cel-Ray's Special Nickname
In the 1930s, Cel-Ray was very popular in New York City. It was especially loved by the Jewish community there. Because it was so popular, people even gave it a fun nickname: "Jewish Champagne"!
Kosher and Where to Find It
Dr. Brown's sodas, including Cel-Ray, are kosher. This means they follow special food rules. You can often find them in Jewish delicatessens and restaurants. They are also sold in special grocery stores that sell American foods in Israel.
Other Celery Sodas
In the 1890s, other companies also made "celery tonics" or "celery sodas." But Dr. Brown's Cel-Ray is the only one that is still made and enjoyed today!
