Abstract: A post-mix soft drink dispenser includes, in the feed water supply, a reverse osmosis unit for treating the inlet water and a carbonator for adding carbon dioxide to the treated water. The use of RO water provides a better tasting soft drink, allows the use of substantially less soft drink syrup or a combination thereof. An ingredient water tap downstream of the reverse osmosis unit allows the use of RO water in recipes, particularly for baked products, providing surprising results.