Yes, there will likely be a difference in taste and quality when you drink a soda can that has been frozen solid and then allowed to melt outside before opening it. When a soda can freezes, the water content in the soda expands, potentially causing the can to burst or deform. Therefore, it's essential to be cautious when attempting to freeze a soda can.
Here are some potential issues you may encounter:
Carbonation loss: When the soda freezes, the carbon dioxide gas, which is responsible for the carbonation, can escape from the liquid. This loss of carbonation can result in a flat or less fizzy soda.
Texture changes: The freezing and subsequent melting process can affect the texture of the soda. The sugars and other components in the soda might not reconstitute properly, leading to an altered mouthfeel.
Separation: Freezing and melting can cause some ingredients in the soda to separate or settle, leading to an uneven distribution of flavors and textures.
Off-flavors: The freezing and melting process might cause certain compounds in the soda to break down or interact, resulting in off-flavors or a less appealing taste.
To preserve the taste and quality of your soda, it's generally best to avoid freezing it. If you accidentally freeze a soda, it's advisable to allow it to thaw slowly in the refrigerator rather than outside. This slower thawing process may help mitigate some of the negative effects on taste and texture.
Keep in mind that while freezing a soda can is not recommended, other methods of cooling it, such as placing it in the refrigerator or using ice cubes, can help chill the drink without causing these issues.