Dr Pepper has overtaken Pepsi as the second-bestselling soda in the US. Its rise helps explain dirty sodas, healthy sodas, and the overall explosion of the beverage market.

This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd and Andrea Kristinsdottir, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.

Transcript at vox.com/today-explained-podcast

Support Today, Explained by becoming a Vox Member today: http://www.vox.com/members

Dr. Pepper has tied Pepsi for the second most popular soft drink in the U.S., behind Coca-Cola. Photo illustration by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices