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Irn-Bru

Irn-Bru is a Scottish carbonated soft drink produced by A.G.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Irn-Bru is a Scottish carbonated soft drink produced by A.G. Barr. First launched in 1901, it is widely associated with Scottish culture and is often described as Scotland's other national drink after whisky.

History

Irn-Bru was introduced in 1901, with A.G. Barr tracing its origins to an earlier Falkirk-based family business. The drink was originally sold as Iron Brew before the spelling was changed to Irn-Bru in 1946.

Brand and recipe

A.G. Barr describes Irn-Bru as a carbonated soft drink made to a secret recipe containing 32 flavours. The product is known for its bright orange colour and distinctive taste.

Cultural significance

The drink is often called Scotland's other national drink and is closely tied to Scottish popular culture. It is widely recognised as one of Scotland's best-known soft drinks.

Marketing and reputation

Irn-Bru has developed a strong identity through distinctive branding and long-running marketing campaigns. Its reputation has been reinforced by its association with Scottishness and everyday consumption in Scotland.

Key facts

  • Irn-Bru is a Scottish carbonated soft drink produced by A.G. Barr.
  • It was introduced in 1901 and originally marketed as Iron Brew.
  • The brand name was changed to Irn-Bru in 1946.
  • A.G. Barr says the drink is made to a secret recipe containing 32 flavours.
  • Irn-Bru is strongly associated with Scottish identity and culture.

Frequently asked questions

What is Irn-Bru?
Irn-Bru is a Scottish carbonated soft drink made by A.G. Barr.
When was Irn-Bru first launched?
It was introduced in 1901.
Where is Irn-Bru made?
It is produced in Westfield, Cumbernauld, North Lanarkshire, Scotland.
Why is Irn-Bru culturally important?
It is strongly associated with Scottish identity and is often described as Scotland's other national drink.
What was Irn-Bru originally called?
It was originally marketed as Iron Brew.
Who owns the Irn-Bru brand?
The brand is owned by A.G. Barr.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irn-Bru
    Supports: Basic identification, origin date, production location, and overview.
  2. A.G. Barr — https://www.agbarr.co.uk/our-brands/core-brands/irn-bru/
    Supports: Brand ownership, launch date, secret recipe with 32 flavours, and historical summary.
  3. A.G. Barr — https://www.agbarr.co.uk/about-us/our-business/our-history/
    Supports: Company history and renaming to Irn-Bru.
  4. The Scotsman — https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/scottish-fact-of-the-day-irn-bru-1521063
    Supports: Historical background, renaming date, and sales position in Scotland.
  5. Historic UK — https://www.historic-uk.com/Culture-UK/Irn-Bru/
    Supports: Origin story, naming change rationale, and Scottish cultural significance.