Pepsi has launched three new flavoured variants in the US, as the uptake of sophisticated flavours in the cola category continues.
The new berry, lime and mango colas represent the first time that Pepsi has added real fruit juice to its colas, which the company claimed would “create a bolder flavour experience”.
They join Pepsi’s existing flavour portfolio, which comprises vanilla and wild cherry variants, and comes amid widespread flavour innovation across the category. Rival Coca-Cola has experimented with provenance-led flavours like Georgia peach and California raspberry, as well as completely overhauling its Diet Coke range with flavours such as twisted mango, zesty blood orange and feisty cherry.
The launch follows Pepsi’s announcement that it will release “the world’s first nitrogen-infused cola”, potentially opening up an entirely new beverage category. Called Nitro Pepsi, the drink combines nitrogen infusion with the classic Pepsi taste to deliver “an entirely reimagined cola experience”.
The brand has also previously experimented with cola flavours like ginger, raspberry, salted caramel and cinnamon.
Todd Kaplan, vice-president of marketing for Pepsi, said: “We are really excited to release these three new flavours, as they provide our fans with a flavourful new cola experience that combines the delicious flavour of an ice-cold Pepsi with a splash of real fruit juice. This unique twist on cola creates an unbelievably delightful taste profile that is unparalleled in the marketplace, creating a refreshing way for people to cool off in the warm weather.”
All three new flavours are available in 12 packs of 12oz cans through national retailers until mid-June. After, the three products will be available in packs of eight 12oz sleek cans sold at Walmart and Target.
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