I have noticed that over the last few years more and more soda makers are putting sweeteners in their drinks, originally it used it just be in their “diet” or “zero” offerings, but I’ve noticed they are making their way into their regular recopies too.
I usually immediately know if that’s the case on the first sip because they often have a rather strong flavour, which isn’t really pleasant. It seems to depend on what sweetener(s) they’ve chosen to use, but they can taste bitter, astringent or just… not good. I usually end up having to throw away the drink.
I don’t drink soda very often, so I’m wondering if this is something you have to acquire a taste for?
I’m with you, I find artificial sweeteners to have a “chemical” taste. Just generally unpleasant.
It seems to vary from person to person, some don’t seem to notice much, seems there might be a genetic component: https://www.phillymag.com/be-well-philly/2013/08/22/study-fake-sweeteners-taste-disgusting-people/