As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and evaluate a wide range of sodas over the years. While there are countless options available on the market, it is true that some sodas have been discontinued or are no longer sold. Here, I will share with you a few examples of sodas that have become a thing of the past.
1. Crystal Pepsi: This clear cola was introduced by PepsiCo in the early 1990s as a response to the growing popularity of clear beverages. It had a unique, refreshing taste that was similar to traditional cola but lacked the caramel color. Crystal Pepsi gained a cult following but ultimately failed to sustain its sales and was discontinued in the late 1990s. However, it made a limited comeback in recent years, allowing fans to relive the nostalgia.
2. Surge: Surge was a citrus-flavored soda that was launched by The Coca-Cola Company in the 1990s to compete with Pepsi's Mountain Dew. It had a bold and intense taste that appealed to fans of high-energy drinks. Despite its initial success, Surge gradually lost its popularity and was discontinued in the early 2000s. However, due to popular demand and a dedicated online campaign by fans, Surge made a comeback in 2014 as an Amazon exclusive.
3. Jolt Cola: Jolt Cola was known for its high caffeine content, providing a strong energy boost. It gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, particularly among college students and gamers. However, as the market became saturated with energy drinks, Jolt Cola struggled to compete and eventually disappeared from store shelves. While it may no longer be widely available, there are still dedicated fans who reminisce about the intense kick it provided.
4. Slice: Slice was a line of fruit-flavored sodas introduced by PepsiCo in the 1980s. It offered a variety of flavors, including orange, grape, lemon-lime, and apple. Slice gained popularity but faced stiff competition from other fruit-flavored sodas like Fanta and Sunkist. Ultimately, PepsiCo decided to discontinue the brand in the early 2000s. However, some regional variations of Slice can still be found in certain markets.
5. OK Soda: OK Soda was a short-lived product launched by The Coca-Cola Company in the early 1990s. It was marketed as a “not-so-great” soda, targeting Generation X with its alternative and ironic branding. OK Soda had a unique flavor profile that combined cola with fruity and spicy notes. Despite its innovative marketing approach, OK Soda failed to resonate with consumers and was discontinued within a year of its launch.
These are just a few examples of sodas that are no longer sold or are no longer widely available. However, it's worth noting that the beverage industry is constantly evolving, and new flavors and brands continue to emerge. So, while we may bid farewell to some beloved sodas, there are always new and exciting options to explore.