Coca-Cola changes the flavor of Coca Zero Sugar

Coca-Cola apparently changes the flavor of a major soda: Coke Zero. In a new statement on its news site, Coca-Cola said the following: “Coca-Cola Zero Sugar is launching an even more delicious and refreshing recipe – and bold new packaging – to deliver a taste of Coca-Cola yet The new recipe – which leverages the existing flavors and ingredients of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar – begins marketing this month in the United States, with full national distribution in the United States and Canada from ‘August and a full cast in September itself. “

The new Coke Zero will market to consumers under the slogan “Now More Delicious”. There is now going to be a nationwide marketing campaign including a sampling campaign to challenge consumers to see if the new Coke Zero flavor is really the “Best Coke ever?”

Rafael Prandini, Coca-Cola Category Manager, North American Business Unit, assured Coke fans that the new Coke Zero flavor has been tested and approved by consumers. In a statement, Prandini said, “Recognizing that tastes and preferences are constantly evolving, we are focused on continuous improvement to give fans the tastiest Coca-Cola they want, sugar-free and calorie-free, available in the box. ‘most iconic packaging and powered by some of our most creative, consumer-centric marketers to date.

What’s really funny about this whole situation is that Coca-Cola has explained (to the consumer in general) what this change in flavor will actually be. To be fair, it’s a pretty impossible situation to explain in writing what Coke Zero currently looks like and why the new flavor will taste different in comparison. Hence the large-scale tasting campaign: Anyone familiar with the marketing of non-alcoholic beverages knows how well an ad of people tasting things on the street is shown to a wider consumer base (TV).

Here is the full Coca-Cola press release, regarding the new flavor of Coke Zero and its rollout to the shelves:

Coca-Cola® launches a new and improved Coca-Cola® Zero Sugar recipe with a new look and taste that is even more delicious and refreshing, bringing it closer to a great taste of Coke – still with zero sugar and zero calories. Knowing that consumer preferences are always changing, we are constantly innovating to further improve this recipe and provide fans with the taste they are looking for and we are delighted to bring this updated Coca-Cola® Zero Sugar to the market.

The new recipe begins shipping this month in the United States, with full national distribution in the United States and Canada starting in August with full distribution in September. This recipe was made by further optimizing the flavor blend using the same ingredients to deliver a great coca flavor. The new design will be featured on all Coca-Cola® Zero Sugar products, including 7.5 oz and 12 oz cans; fridge packs; and 13.2 oz, 16.9 oz, 20 oz, 1.25 L and 2 L bottles – with 0 calories and 0 sugar. The new packaging is streamlined and celebrates the iconic logo, starting with the brand’s original and universally recognized red, with black Spencerian writing, signaling the Zero Sugar variety. Updated Coca-Cola® Zero Sugar is already on sale in Europe and Latin America and will be rolled out worldwide during 2021