I want to develop some ready to drink vodka mixes similar to Smirnoff ice, Bacardi breezer etc. I have developed some great recipes, but as these recipes contain real fruit juice I have come across a bit of a problem.
The problem is preservation. The first recipe I developed is a vodka lemonade similar to Smirnoff ice. The components of this drink all mix to create an environment that I think would be hard for bacteria to grow. Lemon juice (citric acid), sugar and vodka. However if stored for a long period I am afraid of spoilage.
Most soft drinks and juices add a preservative called sodium benzoate. I am not sure if this preservative is suitable in this case, if it is sufficient or how much to add.
Does anyone have any experience with preservatives of this kind.
thanks