Zamzam (زمزم) is a prominent Iranian producer of non-alcoholic beverages, serving as a local alternative to global brands like Coca-Cola and Pepsi.
Zamzam is one of the most well-known Iranian producers of sweetened carbonated drinks, with a long-standing tradition and strong position in the Iranian market.
Zamzam: Iranian Coca-Cola Alternative
The origins of Zamzam beverages date back to 1954, when the company’s first factory was established in Tehran. The name “Zamzam” refers to the sacred Zamzam well in Mecca, symbolizing purity and the spiritual significance associated with Muslim culture.
Zamzam drinks are especially popular for their local origin, low price, and extensive distribution network. The products are widely available in supermarkets, restaurants, street stalls, and small shops. Thanks to its long-standing presence and strong advertising campaigns, the Zamzam brand is very well known and loved among Iranians. It is worth mentioning that Coca-Cola and Pepsi are also readily available in Iran.
Zamzam Cola
Zamzam Cola is the company’s most famous product. In taste and appearance, it is similar to the globally popular Coca-Cola and is perceived as a direct Iranian alternative to this beverage. Although its taste differs slightly from Coca-Cola, it is very similar overall and ranks among the best-selling soft drinks in Iran.
Zamzam Cola Zero
In response to the growing demand for diet drinks, Zamzam introduced Zamzam Cola Zero. It is a diet version of the classic Zamzam Cola that contains no sugar and is sweetened with alternative sweeteners (it does not contain aspartame). In terms of taste, appearance, and concept, Zamzam Cola Zero is similar to Coca-Cola Zero.
Zamzam Orange
Zamzam Orange is a sweet, orange-flavored carbonated drink very similar to the well-known Western Fanta. The drink has a bright orange color and a sweet orange taste, making it especially popular during the summer months.
Zamzam Limonade
Zamzam Limonade is a lemon-flavored drink with a refreshing taste. While it might seem similar to Western beverages like Sprite or 7Up, it differs significantly in flavor. Zamzam Limonade is less sweet, more intense, and tangier. In Iran, it is an exceptionally popular drink. Personally, I find it the best drink in the entire Zamzam lineup.
Zamzam Effect
Zamzam Effect is an energy drink produced by Zamzam, introduced in response to the growing popularity of energy drinks. In taste and composition, it resembles Western energy drinks like Red Bull (to me, it tastes exactly the same). The back of the can states that it is a product made under license from the German company MBG Brands International, a direct competitor of Red Bull.
Zamzam Doogh
Doogh is an exceptionally popular local yogurt drink, and Zamzam produces its own version. However, for me, it is unfortunately one of the least interesting types of this beverage in terms of taste.
I tried all the Zamzam drinks mentioned above during my time in Iran (of course 😁). Zamzam Cola, Zamzam Cola Zero, and Zamzam Orange tasted very similar to their Western originals. However, Zamzam Limonade is quite different from Sprite or 7Up—its flavor is distinct (and much better, in my opinion). The taste of Zamzam Effect seems identical to Red Bull. For five cans of various drinks and one glass bottle of doogh, I paid 1,300,000 IRR (1.45 EUR) at the Zamzam company store in Esfahan.
Have you had the chance to try any Zamzam drinks? What did you think of them?
