For the autumn season this year, Pepsi released a 'Halloween Cola' that boasts a bright pink color and a sweet flavor that has a secret flavor. The limited-edition soda was previously teased as having a top-secret flavor, but it is now coming about that the drink tastes of candy—specifically bubblegum.
This year, rather than simply branding their signature products with spooky colors and names, many brands are aiming to trick and treat consumers with mystery flavors. For Halloween, HI-CHEW released a Sweet and Sour Mystery Mix and the Wrigley Company unveiled Cauldron Skittles, both of which aim to surprise and delight during the season.
Previously, Pepsi released other seasonal varieties like Pepsi Ghost for Halloween, which was also introduced to consumers with a mystery flavor.
Candied Soda Beverages
The Pepsi Halloween Cola Boasts a Sugary Pink Color and a Bubblegum Flavor
Trend Themes
1. Mystery Flavors - Increasing popularity of mystery flavors in seasonal food products such as bubblegum in Pepsi Halloween Cola and Sweet and Sour Mystery Mix of HI-CHEW signals an opportunity for companies to innovate and experiment with unique flavors.
2. Seasonal Varieties - Brands like Pepsi releasing Halloween-themed cola flavors and Wrigley's Cauldron Skittles, indicate the immense potential in developing seasonal or limited edition food products.
3. Sensory Experiences - The market demand for unique flavors in food products shows that consumers also crave a sensory experience and companies should consider investing and innovating in this space.
Industry Implications
1. Beverage Industry - Brands like Pepsi are expanding the potential of soda by bringing mystery flavors and disrupting traditional beverages.
2. Confectionery Industry - The use of bubblegum-like flavors in Pepsi Halloween Cola and other seasonal treats is an indication of an opportunity for the confectionery industry to create more innovative and playful flavors.
3. Seasonal Food Industry - Seasonal or limited-edition food products have gained immense popularity among consumers. Brands can capitalize on this trend by creating unique and customizable seasonal flavors.