Amid Inflation, Abuja Residents Opt for Local Beverages Over Soft Drinks
As the cost of living continues to soar in Nigeria, many residents of Abuja are turning to locally made drinks like zobo, kunu, tiger nut beverages, and fresh fruit juices as affordable and healthier alternatives to carbonated soft drinks.
In separate interviews conducted on Saturday, several residents expressed that homemade drinks not only help them save money but also offer health benefits compared to sugary sodas.
Why Homemade Drinks Are Gaining Popularity
Zobo, a refreshing drink made from dried hibiscus petals and spices, and kunu, derived from ground sorghum and spices, have become household staples. These beverages are praised for their affordability, availability, and reduced sugar content.
Adah Jacob, a resident of Abuja, noted the drastic rise in the prices of soft drinks, especially during the festive season.
“Since soft drinks are now expensive, I’ll opt for zobo. After all, it’s healthier and saves costs. A bottle of Coke now costs between N450 and N500, while a pack of 12 costs nearly N6,000, compared to N2,500 last year,” she explained.
Mary James, another resident, shared her perspective:
“Switching to natural drinks made from tiger nuts or Nutri-C has not only helped me save money but has also reduced my soda addiction. These local drinks are both healthier and budget-friendly.”
Ms. James, who once sold soft drinks, added that the declining patronage for carbonated beverages has made even personal consumption unaffordable.
Homemade Drinks: A Healthier Alternative
Abu Gebu, a father of four, emphasized that homemade drinks offer more control over sugar content, making them a healthier choice for families.
“Soft drinks are too sugary for children and even some adults. With homemade drinks, you can control the ingredients, and though they require effort, they are healthier and more economical,” he said.
Increased Demand for Local Ingredients
The shift towards homemade beverages has also boosted the demand for ingredients like hibiscus petals and sorghum. Saminu Mohammed, a trader at Dutse Market, stated that sales of these ingredients have surged.
“A mudu of hibiscus petals now costs N1,500, while sorghum goes for N1,200. People from all tribes are embracing these drinks, not just northerners, and it has positively impacted our business,” he said.
The economic strain has led many Nigerians to embrace creative and cost-effective solutions, with homemade drinks standing out as a practical and nutritious choice amid inflationary pressures.
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