Squash (drink)

A bottle of squash

Squash (sometimes called cordial; however, see the definitions below) is a highly-sweetened (and often fruit-based) concentrate, which is mixed with a liquid, most commonly water, before drinking. It is also the name of the resulting drink.

Squashes and cordials are common in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand, and have a large market share in competition with fruit juices and soft drinks. They are especially popular amongst toddlers and young children. Typically, squash is created by mixing one part concentrate with four or five parts water (depending on concentration and personal taste) directly into a glass or mug or into a jug. The most common flavours are orange, apple and blackcurrant, lemon, peppermint, mixed fruit, summer fruits, and lemon and lime. Other flavours include peach, strawberry, and kiwi fruit.

Common manufacturers of squash include Robinsons, Nichols (under the Vimto brand), GlaxoSmithKline (under the Ribena brand), Cantrell & Cochrane (under the MiWadi brand), Coca-Cola (under the Kia-Ora brand) and supermarkets' own brands. Prominent Australian brands include Cottees and Golden Circle cordials.

Use of the term 'squash'

• In the West Indies the name "squash" is used to describe a lime juice drink, similar to lemonade.

• In Denmark "Squash" often refers to an orange soda water brewed by Tuborg.[1]

• In Australia and New Zealand, "squash" refers to a lemon drink, which has a more natural lemon flavour than lemonade.