Coca-Cola Announces Spicy New Addition to Its Permanent Flavor Offerings
Coca-Cola lovers who enjoy a special twist in their soda might opt for the sweet options of Coca-Cola Cherry and Coca-Cola Vanilla. But for people who like their drinks to have a fizzy kick, there hasn't been much to choose from among the beverage giant's offerings—until now.
On Feb. 7, Coca-Cola unveiled its newest flavor: Coca-Cola Spiced. It's the first new permanent Coke product for North American markets in three years and, along with the healthier Coca-Cola Spiced Zero Sugar, will go on sale in the U.S. and Canada starting Feb. 19.
Despite its name, don't expect Coca-Cola Spiced to have you crying like a guest on Hot Ones. The soda contains a hint of raspberry flavor, and while the manufacturer won't disclose what spices specifically are in it, it reportedly tastes like a pumped-up version of a regular Coke, per The Associated Press.
The shift to create something with a flavorful punch was partially a reaction to inventions by competitors. "If you go to the aisles, you’ll see the amount of spiciness has gone up because consumers’ taste palates have evolved. We realized that could be an opportunity for us," Coke's North American marketing chief Shakir Moin told the AP. The question for the company was simple: "Can we dial up something which is already part of our formula and bring in a taste profile that is interesting, unique, and brings in the next generation of consumers?"
Related: Pepsi Introduces Cola-Flavored Ketchup, 'Colachup'
The introduction of Coca-Cola Spiced comes after the corporation axed another spicy flavor offering, Coca-Cola Cinnamon, last year.
As for alcoholic possibilities, Coca-Cola Spiced sounds like the perfect companion for your favorite spiced rum.
