Mormon culture hits fast food: McDonald’s puts dirty soda on menu after ‘Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ takes trend viral

McDonald's is introducing six new beverages, including three "crafted sodas," to its menu on May 6. These drinks feature combinations of sodas with flavored syrups and cold foam, a concept known as "dirty soda." Dirty soda is not just a trend but a cultural staple within Mormon communities, originating prominently in Utah. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints prohibits alcohol, tea, and coffee, making caffeinated sodas a popular alternative. The term "dirty soda" was trademarked by the Utah-based franchise Swig in 2014. Increased mainstream recognition for dirty soda surged after the Hulu reality show "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives" premiered in late 2024. The show featured cast members patronizing Swig and ordering customized sodas, highlighting them as a Mormon "vice." This publicity led to significant growth for Swig and increased public interest in dirty sodas. Social media users have noted this trend's Mormon origins and linked it to rising purity culture and the popularity of tradwife content. Other fast-food chains like Dunkin', Taco Bell, and Sonic, as well as AMC theaters, have also introduced versions of dirty sodas. The popularity of these drinks has become a notable development in the beverage industry.