Beverage additives are substances added to drinks to enhance their flavor, appearance, or shelf life. Common examples include sweeteners, preservatives, and colorings. These additives can be natural, like fruit extracts, or artificial, such as aspartame and caramel color. They help improve the overall taste and visual appeal of beverages. In addition to flavor and color, some beverage additives serve functional purposes. For instance, caffeine is added to energy drinks for its stimulating effects, while citric acid can act as a preservative. Understanding these additives helps consumers make informed choices about the drinks they consume.