13 Discontinued Drinks That People Still Talk About
Certain drinks, though no longer available, have left lasting impressions on consumers worldwide. These beverages became iconic for their unique flavors, marketing, or cultural significance and continue to spark nostalgia today.
- Tricia Quitales
- 5 min read
Discontinued drinks often evoke strong memories and curiosity about their original taste and impact. Many of these beverages had devoted fan bases who mourned their disappearance. Some drinks influenced trends in the beverage industry or became symbols of a particular era. Understanding why these drinks remain talked about highlights the emotional connection people have with flavors from their past.
1. Crystal Pepsi
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Crystal Pepsi made waves in the early 1990s with its clear cola concept that promised purity and freshness. Despite initial excitement, the taste confused many loyal cola fans. It lasted only a short time but has since gained cult status. Nostalgic consumers still discuss its unique flavor and bold marketing. Its brief presence made a memorable impact on beverage history.
2. Surge
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Surge was a citrus-flavored soda that competed with Mountain Dew in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Known for its bold taste and high caffeine content, it developed a loyal following. When discontinued, fans created online campaigns to bring it back. Surge’s cult popularity reflects its energizing appeal and distinct branding. It remains a sought-after memory among soda enthusiasts.
3. Orbitz
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Orbitz was a visually striking drink with floating edible balls suspended in a clear liquid. Released in the late 1990s, its futuristic design intrigued consumers, but its unusual texture divided opinions. Despite being discontinued, it is remembered as one of the most unique beverages ever produced. Orbitz’s blend of novelty and flavor continues to spark curiosity. It stands out as a symbol of beverage experimentation.
4. Josta
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Josta, launched by Coca-Cola in the mid-1990s, was the first energy soda to enter the market. Its combination of caffeine, guarana, and high sugar content made it a popular choice for energy seekers. Though discontinued, it is often credited for paving the way for modern energy drinks. Fans recall its distinctive taste and pioneering status. Josta’s legacy is still felt in the energy beverage industry.
5. Pepsi Blue
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Pepsi Blue was a berry-flavored cola introduced in the early 2000s that quickly became a cult favorite. Its vibrant blue color and sweet taste set it apart from traditional colas. Unfortunately, its novelty faded, and it was discontinued. However, it remains a nostalgic favorite among fans who remember its unique flavor. Pepsi Blue exemplifies how bold innovation can leave a lasting impression.
6. Tab Clear
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Tab Clear was a clear diet cola launched in the early 1990s as a healthier alternative to regular cola. It combined the appeal of clarity with Tab’s original taste. Despite a strong start, it failed to maintain popularity and was discontinued. Fans still reminisce about its distinct look and diet-friendly promise. It reflects a period of bold experimentation in soft drink marketing.
7. 7UP Gold
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7UP Gold was a caramel-flavored variation of the classic lemon-lime soda, introduced in the 1980s. Its smooth and sweet taste attracted curious consumers looking for something different. Although it was short-lived, many remember it fondly for its unique flavor profile. 7UP Gold remains a topic of discussion in retro beverage circles. It remains a notable variation in 7UP’s history.
8. Pepsi Natural
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Pepsi Natural was a clear, naturally flavored cola that aimed to combine traditional soda taste with natural ingredients. Released in the late 2000s, it struggled to find a lasting audience. Its blend of health-conscious marketing and cola flavor made it a notable experiment. Fans still talk about its refreshing taste and clean look. Pepsi Natural represented a shift toward healthier beverage options.
9. Coca-Cola C2
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Coca-Cola C2 was designed as a lower-carb alternative to regular cola, introduced in the early 2000s. It targeted consumers seeking a middle ground between full-sugar and diet sodas. Despite its innovative approach, the product was discontinued due to limited consumer interest. Its concept influenced later beverage trends toward healthier options. C2 is often remembered for its attempt to adapt to changing consumer preferences.
10. Fruitopia
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Fruitopia was a fruit-flavored beverage popular in the 1990s, produced by Coca-Cola to compete with other fruit drinks. Its vibrant flavors and colorful packaging made it stand out in the market. Though discontinued, it inspired nostalgic memories of youth and sunny afternoons. Fruitopia’s influence can still be seen in modern fruit beverages. Fans often wish for its return due to its unique taste.
11. Pepsi A.M.
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Pepsi A.M. was marketed as a morning soda with added caffeine and a lighter taste. Introduced in the late 1980s, it aimed to compete with coffee and morning drinks. It failed to catch on with consumers and was quickly discontinued. Nevertheless, it remains a curious part of soda history. Pepsi A.M. showed attempts to broaden soda’s role in daily routines.
12. New Coke
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New Coke was a reformulation of Coca-Cola introduced in 1985 that sparked massive public backlash. Fans rejected the new taste, demanding the return of the original formula. The episode remains one of the most famous marketing failures in beverage history. New Coke is still discussed as a lesson in brand loyalty and consumer preference. Its legacy shaped future product decisions.
13. Mountain Dew Code Red
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Mountain Dew Code Red was a cherry-flavored variant introduced in the early 2000s that gained immediate popularity. Although it was never discontinued, its early limited availability created a buzz similar to discontinued drinks. It showed how flavor extensions could build lasting fan bases. The excitement around Code Red remains a benchmark for beverage launches. It continues to be a favorite among Mountain Dew fans.