Last Updated on April 23, 2022 by Jim Edwards
For most people, the sweet, citrus flavor of Tang brings back a lot of childhood memories. The thoughts of the Space Race become fresh. A fair amount of print and TV ads had linked Tang orange mix to NASA.
Back in the 60s, the Tang mix was a water enhancer for astronauts on spacecraft. The regular water onboard was usually infused with non-toxic chemicals to preserve its purity in orbit. The infusion of these chemicals made the water taste bitter. Hence, Tang, being a convenient mix, frequently accompanied astronauts various onboard spacecraft.
But what exactly is this Tang drink? What is it made of? Does it have any health benefits? We answer all the queries for you in the article ahead.
Contents
What is Tang?
Tang is a sugary and flavorful drink concentrate, available in powder and liquid form. Just add water, stir it well, and it is ready for consumption. The most popular flavor is Orange (original). There are a few other flavors available such as Mango, Lime, Pineapple, and more.
Tang is one of the choices for people to have after a workout or quench their thirst on a hot summer day. It restores the electrolyte balance and prevents dehydration when consumed in the right amount. Because the drink contains sweeteners, excessive consumption can have a long-term health hazard.
During its initial years of incorporation, Tang struggled to make a mark on the masses. Their marketing strategy was weak. However, NASA recognized its taste, and soon it was part of the menu for astronauts in the Gemini missions. The linkage of Tang with NASA led to a popular belief that it was NASA that invented this drink. It was later clarified, and General Foods received the recognition.
History of Tang
The Tang drink first came into existence in 1957. It was curated by William Mitchell, a scientist of General Foods. The powder form was marketed first in 1959
People believe that this drink was specially curated for the American astronauts. For a long, people thought NASA was behind it. However, Tang drink mix did become a staple for astronauts when a spaceman John Glenn in 1962, realized that the taste of water on the spacecraft was really bad.
The drink mix did Tang was part of the food menu in certain Gemini flights too. Many soda companies sent their canned drinks to the crew in space, but Tang was the first preference. It was easy to mix in a water container.
The ownership of Tang was passed on to Mondelez International in 2012. It is a North-American firm that came off from Kraft Foods Inc.
Kraft Foods put together a new version of Tang in 2007. Half of the sugar quantity was replaced by artificial sweeteners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ingredients used in Tang?
Sugar, Fructose, Citric Acid, contains less than 2% Maltodextrin, Calcium Phosphate, Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Natural Flavor, Artificial Colors – Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Guar Gum, Xanthan Gum, BHA (to help protect flavor).
Is Tang a health-drink?
Since the drink mix contains sugar, it is not ideal to consume it in large amounts. However, Tang delivers a good dose of Vitamin C if consumed wisely. It is also a good source of Calcium.
What Powdered Drink did NASA Make Famous After it was Sent into Space?
Tang. Tang was made famous in part by NASA’s outer space mission in the 1960’s. To learn more about Tang, read the history above.
Are Electrolytes present in Tang?
On a hot and humid day when you feel fatigued due to the weather, Tang presents itself as a rejuvenating drink. It can recharge you well after a good workout. The balance of Vitamin C and carbohydrates can energize you in an instant. However, we advise you to keep a check on the consumption amount.
How to make Tang juice?
Add two tablespoons of the Tang powder in 300 ml of cold water. Stir it well. There is no need to add sugar as the powdered-mix/ liquid concentrate has sugar in it. Add ice cubes, and you are ready to enjoy a glass full of a tasty and power-packed drink.
What are the popular Tang flavors in the United States?
Some of the US’s popular Tang flavors are Orange, Orange Mango, Orange Pineapple, Orange Strawberry, Guava Pineapple, Fruit Punch, and Passion Fruit.
Do they make a sugar free version of Tang?
Yes, they do. Its is newer and comes in individual packets.
What is the nutritional information for Tang?
One tablespoon of the orange-flavored Tang mix contains:
| Energy (kcal) | 91.5 |
| Protein (g) | 0 |
| Carbohydrate (g) | 24.6 |
| Lipid Fat (g) | 0 |
| Calcium (mg) | 92.25 |
| Iron (mg) | 0.02 |
| Magnesium (mg) | 0 |
| Potassium (mg) | 47.5 |
| Phosphorous (mg) | 42.25 |
| Zinc (mg) | 0.01 |
| Copper (mg) | 0 |
| Sodium (mg) | 2 |
| Vitamin A (IU) | 500 |
| Vitamin B6 (mg) | 0.2 |
| Vitamin B12 (mcg) | 0 |
| Vitamin C (mg) | 60 |
| Thiamin (mg) | 0 |
| Riboflavin (mg) | 0.17 |
| Niacin (mg) | 2 |
| Pantothenic acid (mg) | 0 |
| Folate (mcg) | 0 |
| Folate DFE (mcg) | 0 |
| Folic Acid (mcg) | 0 |
| Cholesterol (mg) | 0 |
| Saturated fat (g) | 0 |
| Monounsaturated fat (g) | 0 |
| Polyunsaturated fat (g) | 0 |
| Sugar (g) | 22.55 |
| Dietary Fiber (g) | 0.08 |
Tang Drink Product Review
Although Tang had a rough start, after the 60s, it became a popular drink choice amongst people. People of varied generations have grown up reminiscing the sweet flavor. Here in this section, we review some of Tang’s most popular flavors that you can find easily.
#1 Tang Orange Powdered Drink Mix (Original)
The original and the first flavor ever introduced was the Orange powdered drink mix. Available in a 1.3 lbs. canister pack, it makes up to six quarts of power-packed, energizing drink.
Packed with the goodness of Vitamin C and richness of Calcium, the Tang Orange drink mix is perfect for a flavorful treat during the scorching heat.
#2 Tang Orange Mango Powdered Drink Mix
Another popular flavor by Tang, this drink mix is a medley of Orange and Mango flavors. Apart from Vitamin A, C, and B6’s benefits, you also get an ample amount of Carbohydrates to boost your energy level post a hectic schedule.
People like the tanginess and the burst of flavor in the mouth, especially when chilled.
#3 Tang Guava Pineapple Powdered Drink Mix
Available in an 18 oz. Canister pack, the Tang Guava Pineapple is a refreshing beverage, compensating for your daily dose of Vitamin C. The pack makes six quarts of the drink when mixed with chilled water.
People who have tasted the flavor have found it to be great.
Tang Commercials
We could not end this post without mentioning the memorable Tang Commercials that convinced people to try the drink. These are the best ones that will take you back to the 1950’s and an earlier era in American commercials.
Give these a watch, they will take you back mentally to the 1960’s in the United States.
Tang Commercial – 1959 Vintage Commercial
This commercial is quite a hoot for many reasons. First, it is a full minute which is so rare now for a food product. Second, the announcer is extremely enthusiastic and proclaims “it is time to wake up to Tang!”
The commercial focuses on how tang furnishes more vitamin C than orange juice and how easy it is to mix, as they show you how to do it.
Instant Tang is the new breakfast drink – “everyday, wake up to Tang!”
Tang Commercial – 1966 Original Commercial
This was the original commercial that forever connected Tang Drink to astronauts, NASA and outer space.
As the commercial says, the astronauts on the Project Gemini space flights have to drink Tang out of a zero-g pouch, but you can drink it any way you like.
Tang Commercial – 1970
This commercial focuses on the success of the then recent Apollo Mission and the connection between NASA, the US Space Program and adding Tang Drink to your breakfast.
Related: If you need more energy in your morning drink, check out Bang Energy Drink
Tang Commercial – 1983
This early 80’s commercial was effective to remind people of Tang’s history with the US Space program.
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Tang Commercial – Karate Chimp (2001)
If you are over the age of 20, this is one of those commercials you might remember. And it is definitely one of the goofiest Tang ads , especially at the end when the chimp sticks its head out the straw and screams, “Tang baby!”
Related: Jamba Juice Secret Menu
Image Credit: “russian tea mix” by heatherknitz is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
I’m Jim Edwards and I started this website to share my love of Junk Food. We cover new junk food, desserts, snack foods, fast food secret menus, candy (of course!) and other related news. We love trying “secret menus” at restaurants. And we love trying new products too. So, we are trying to have some fun with our hobby and share some useful information with you, our community. Please feel to send us your suggestions and feedback through the contact form. And if you have products you would like us to try, let us know…!