Overview

• TikTok and Reddit videos show fountain machines labeled "heavy" in southern Missouri dispensing boosted syrup for drinks such as Pepsi, Mountain Dew and Dr Pepper.
• Posters describe changing the syrup-to-carbonated-water ratio so large drinks stay sweet as ice melts.
• Online reaction ranges from curiosity to disgust, with some locals recalling theaters serving heavier Cherry Coke years ago.
• Las Vegas orthodontist Jeremy Manuele cautions that higher sugar can accelerate cavities, gum inflammation and enamel erosion.
• Observers frame the fad as stunt food and note it differs from dirty soda, which relies on add-ins rather than concentrated syrup, and no major chains have announced a formal heavy option.