The Cult of "Pop": What Is Faygo and Why Is It Finally Taking Over the UK?
For decades, if you wanted to experience the true, sugary soul of Detroit, you had to travel to the American Midwest. You had to find a corner shop in Michigan, look past the standard Cokes and Pepsis, and reach for a neon-coloured bottle with a script logo that looks like it belongs on a vintage baseball jersey.
That drink is Faygo. And after over a century as America’s best-kept regional secret, it has finally officially landed on UK shores.
The Frosting Origins: A Century of "Pop"
To understand Faygo, you have to go back to 1907. Two Russian immigrant brothers, Ben and Perry Feigenson, arrived in Detroit with a background in baking. When they decided to get into the bottling business, they didn’t look to traditional soda recipes they looked at their cake frosting recipes.
They took the flavours of their most popular icings strawberry, grape, and fruit punch and carbonated them. Originally called the Feigenson Brothers Bottling Works, they shortened the name to "Faygo" in 1921.
Perhaps their greatest contribution to the English language? The term "Pop." Because of the distinct pop sound the heavy glass bottles made when the cap was flicked off, the brothers started referring to their drink as "soda pop." In the American Midwest, the word "soda" is still practically a foreign language it’s "pop," thanks to Faygo.
Why the Hype?
Faygo isn’t just a drink; it’s a subculture. In the US, it’s famous for three things:
- The Flavours: While most brands stick to the basics, Faygo has over 50 varieties. We aren't talking just "Orange" or "Lemon." We’re talking Cotton Candy, Peach, Blueberry Raspberry, and Firework (which tastes exactly like those red, white, and blue rocket ice lollies).
- The Price: In the States, Faygo is the "people’s pop." It’s notoriously affordable, making it the staple of backyard BBQs and block parties.
- The Music Connection: You can’t mention Faygo without mentioning the Detroit rap group Insane Clown Posse. Their fans, known as Juggalos, have turned "Faygo Showers" into a concert tradition, spraying hundreds of litres of the stuff into the crowd.
Top Flavours to Try in the UK
Now that specialty importers like MCR SNACK DISTRO and local "sweet shops" across the UK are stocking the 23oz (680ml) bottles, where should you start?
- Red Pop: The OG. It’s a strawberry soda that tastes like pure nostalgia.
- Cotton Candy: This is the one that goes viral. It is aggressively sweet, bright pink, and tastes remarkably like a carnival.
- Moon Mist: For fans of Mountain Dew, this is Faygo’s citrusy, caffeinated answer.
- Firework: A seasonal favourite that blends cherry, blue raspberry, and lime.
Where Can You Get It?
You won’t find Faygo at your local Tesco Express just yet, but the "American Aisle" is expanding. Look for it at:
- Specialty Sweet Shops: Places like Kingdom of Sweets or independent American candy stores.
- Online Retailers: Sites like MCR Snack Distro usually have the best stock of the larger 23oz bottles.
- Delivery Apps: Check the "Convenience" section on Deliveroo or Uber Eats for local shops that stock imports.
Faygo is more than just sugar and bubbles; it’s a slice of American history that has refused to change its bold, colourful identity for 117 years. If you’re tired of the same old cola, it might be time to see what the "pop" is all about.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Faygo’s
1. What is Faygo soda?
Faygo is a historic American soft drink brand from Detroit, Michigan, known for its bold, "frosting-inspired" flavours and century-long heritage.
2. Can I buy Faygo in the UK?
Yes, Faygo is now available in the UK through specialty American import shop online MCR SNACK DISTRO retailer.
3. Where is Faygo originally from?
Faygo was founded in 1907 in Detroit, Michigan, by brothers Ben and Perry Feigenson.
4. Why is Faygo called "pop"?
The term "pop" was coined by Faygo’s founders because of the distinct sound the glass bottles made when opened.
5. What is the most popular Faygo flavour in the UK?
Cotton Candy is one of the most sought-after flavours in the UK due to its viral popularity on social media and unique carnival taste.
6. Is Faygo soda caffeine-free?
Most fruit-flavoured Faygo varieties, such as Cotton Candy, Red Pop, and Grape, are naturally caffeine-free. However, Faygo Cola and Moon Mist do contain caffeine.
7. Is Faygo gluten-free?
Yes, Faygo sodas are typically considered gluten-free, making them a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
8. What does Faygo Red Pop taste like?
Red Pop is a strawberry-flavoured soda and was one of the original flavours created from the founders' cake frosting recipes.
9. How much does a bottle of Faygo cost in the UK?
In the UK, a large 23oz (680ml) bottle typically retails for around £2.99 at retailers like MCR Snack Distro or Green Tree Mini Market.
10. What is the "Firework" flavour?
Faygo Firework is a red, white, and blue soda inspired by the flavours of cherry, blue raspberry, and lime "bomb pop" ice lollies.
11. Does Faygo use real sugar?
Standard US Faygo often uses high fructose corn syrup, though some premium or glass-bottle versions may use cane sugar. Check the label on UK imports, as ingredients can vary by batch.
12. Where can I find Faygo in shops near me?
While not yet in all supermarkets, you can often find Faygo in MCR Snack Distro Online UK Store, Quick Delivery all over uk mainland.
