As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confirm that Taco Bell did indeed discontinue Kickstart (Energizing Orange Citrus) in mid-2022. Kickstart was initially introduced to Taco Bell restaurants in March 2015, as a replacement for Diet Baja Blast. It remained available on their menu for several years, offering customers a refreshing and energizing citrus-flavored beverage option.
I remember trying Kickstart for the first time when it was released. The vibrant orange color and invigorating aroma immediately caught my attention. The taste was a perfect balance of tangy citrus and a hint of sweetness, providing a refreshing pick-me-up that was ideal for Taco Bell's menu. It quickly became a popular choice among customers looking for a non-alcoholic beverage option with a kick.
However, like many products in the food and beverage industry, Kickstart had its run and eventually faced discontinuation. While I do not have access to the specific reasons behind Taco Bell's decision, it is not uncommon for companies to rotate their menu offerings to keep things fresh and introduce new flavors to cater to evolving consumer preferences.
In place of Kickstart, Taco Bell introduced the Brisk Dragon Paradise tea flavor as an exclusive beverage option. The Brisk Dragon Paradise tea is a blend of tropical flavors, offering a unique and exotic taste experience. While I have not personally had the opportunity to try this particular flavor at Taco Bell, I have enjoyed Brisk teas in the past and appreciate their commitment to bold and innovative flavor combinations.
It's worth noting that discontinuations and introductions of new products are common in the food and beverage industry. Companies continuously evaluate consumer response, market trends, and their own brand strategies to make decisions about their menu offerings. Sometimes, a product may be discontinued due to low sales or to make way for new and exciting flavors that align with current consumer demands.
Taco Bell did discontinue Kickstart in mid-2022 and replaced it with the Brisk Dragon Paradise tea flavor exclusive to their restaurants. While it is natural to feel a sense of nostalgia for a beloved beverage that is no longer available, this change provides an opportunity for Taco Bell to explore and offer new and exciting flavors to their customers.