Mountain Dew has a long-standing reputation as one of America’s favorite soft drinks. Over the years, the brand has continued to evolve and innovate, introducing new flavors, marketing campaigns, and packaging designs. One of the most significant changes to Mountain Dew’s legacy came in 2017 when the company announced a new formula for the classic beverage. This article will explore the reasons behind the formula change, how it was received by consumers, and the impact it had on Mountain Dew’s market share and sales.
Introduction to Mountain Dew and Its Legacy
Mountain Dew was first introduced in 1940 by the Tennessee-based soft drink company Hartman Beverage Corporation. The original formula was a citrus-based soda named “Mountain Dew” after a phrase used to describe Tennessee’s moonshine. Over the years, the brand became PepsiCo’s flagship citrus soft drink, known for its bold flavor and high caffeine content. Mountain Dew’s success is in part due to its appeal to young people and its association with extreme sports and pop culture.
In recent years, Mountain Dew has faced criticism for its high sugar and caffeine content, which can lead to health problems such as obesity and heart disease. In response, the company has introduced lower calorie and sugar-free options, such as Mountain Dew Zero Sugar and Diet Mountain Dew. Despite these concerns, Mountain Dew remains a popular beverage choice for many, with a loyal fan base and a strong presence in the soda market.
History of Mountain Dew Formula Changes
Mountain Dew has undergone several formula changes over the years. In 1969, the brand introduced a reformulated version of the drink that included more sugar and a toned-down flavor. In 1980, Mountain Dew launched “Mountain Dew Lite,” a sugar-free, caffeine-free version of the drink. In 2008, the brand introduced its first new flavor in over 20 years with “Mountain Dew Voltage,” a raspberry-flavored soda.
In 2012, Mountain Dew released a limited edition flavor called “Mountain Dew Dark Berry” to promote the movie “The Dark Knight Rises.” The flavor was a mix of Mountain Dew with a dark berry flavor and was only available for a short time. In 2014, the brand introduced “Mountain Dew Kickstart,” a line of drinks that combine Mountain Dew with fruit juice and caffeine. The Kickstart line has since expanded to include several flavors, including “Midnight Grape” and “Blood Orange.”
The Announcement of Mountain Dew Formula Change in 2017
In 2017, Mountain Dew made headlines when it announced a new formula for the classic soft drink. The company claimed that the new formula would provide a “smoother” taste and contain fewer artificial ingredients. The announcement sparked controversy among Mountain Dew fans, many of whom were hesitant to try the new formula and fearful that it would compromise the soda’s classic taste and appeal.
Despite the initial backlash, Mountain Dew’s new formula proved to be a success. The company reported increased sales and positive feedback from consumers who appreciated the updated taste and cleaner ingredient list. In response to the success, Mountain Dew released several new flavors using the updated formula, including Code Red and Voltage.
The formula change also reflected a larger trend in the beverage industry towards healthier and more natural ingredients. Many companies, including Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, have made similar changes to their products in response to consumer demand for healthier options. Mountain Dew’s formula change was a significant step in this direction and demonstrated the company’s commitment to meeting the changing needs and preferences of its customers.
Understanding the Reasons for Mountain Dew Formula Change
The reasons behind Mountain Dew’s formula change were twofold. First, the company wanted to improve the taste of the beverage, providing a smoother, more consistent experience for consumers. Secondly, Mountain Dew wanted to appeal to health-conscious consumers by reducing the amount of artificial ingredients in the drink. The new formula contains natural flavors, less high fructose corn syrup, and more concentrated orange juice.
Another reason for the formula change was to keep up with changing consumer preferences. As more people become aware of the negative health effects of sugary drinks, there has been a shift towards healthier beverage options. By reducing the amount of high fructose corn syrup and artificial ingredients, Mountain Dew is able to cater to this growing market of health-conscious consumers.
Additionally, the formula change was a strategic move to stay competitive in the market. With more and more beverage companies introducing new products and flavors, Mountain Dew needed to innovate and improve their formula to keep up with the competition. By creating a new and improved formula, Mountain Dew was able to generate buzz and excitement among consumers, ultimately leading to increased sales and brand loyalty.
What are the Ingredients of the New Mountain Dew Formula?
The new Mountain Dew formula contains a variety of ingredients, some of which are natural and some of which are synthetic. The ingredients include high fructose corn syrup, carbonated water, natural and artificial flavors, citric acid, sodium benzoate (to preserve freshness), caffeine, sodium citrate, erythorbic acid (to protect flavor), gum Arabic, calcium disodium EDTA (to protect flavor), and yellow 5.
One of the natural ingredients in the new Mountain Dew formula is orange juice concentrate, which gives the drink a slightly citrusy taste. Additionally, the synthetic ingredients in the formula are carefully chosen to ensure that they are safe for consumption and do not pose any health risks.
The new formula was developed after extensive research and testing to create a flavor that would appeal to a wide range of consumers. Mountain Dew fans can expect a bold and refreshing taste that is sure to satisfy their thirst.
How Does the New Formula Taste and Compare with the Old One?
The new Mountain Dew formula has been described as sweeter and smoother than the classic formula. Many customers have reported that the new soda has a less intense flavor and fewer bubbles than the old formula. While some fans are nostalgic for the old formula and find the new one lacking, others have embraced the new formula and enjoy its smoother taste.
Additionally, the new formula has a slightly different aftertaste compared to the old one. Some customers have noted that the aftertaste of the new formula is more fruity and less citrusy than the old formula. However, others have not noticed a significant difference in the aftertaste. Overall, the taste of the new formula is a matter of personal preference and many customers are still loyal to the classic formula.
Consumer Reactions to the New Mountain Dew Formula
The reaction to the new Mountain Dew formula has been mixed. While some customers have enjoyed the smoother taste, others were disappointed by the changes and feel that the new formula lacks the boldness and intensity of the classic drink. Some have also expressed concern about the reduction in caffeine levels and the presence of artificial colors.
Despite the mixed reactions, Mountain Dew has reported an increase in sales since the release of the new formula. This could be due to the company’s marketing efforts, which have focused on the drink’s new and improved taste. Additionally, some customers who were previously turned off by the high caffeine content of the original formula have now become regular consumers of the new, lower-caffeine version.
Mountain Dew has also responded to the concerns of customers who miss the original formula by releasing a limited edition “throwback” version of the drink. This version uses the original formula and packaging from the 1990s, and has been well-received by fans of the classic drink. However, it remains to be seen whether the throwback version will become a permanent addition to the Mountain Dew lineup.
Mountain Dew’s Marketing Strategy for the New Formula
Mountain Dew launched an extensive marketing campaign to promote the new formula, emphasizing its smoother taste and natural ingredients. The campaign included television commercials, online ads, and social media posts featuring popular extreme sports athletes and musicians. The brand also encouraged customers to try the new formula and share their feedback on social media platforms using the hashtag #NewDew.
Additionally, Mountain Dew partnered with several major retailers to offer exclusive promotions and discounts on the new formula. The brand also hosted sampling events at various locations, such as college campuses and sporting events, to give customers a chance to try the new formula for free.
Furthermore, Mountain Dew collaborated with popular food and beverage bloggers to create unique recipes and cocktails using the new formula. These recipes were shared on social media and the brand’s website, encouraging customers to experiment with the new formula and use it in creative ways beyond just drinking it straight.
Impact of Change in Formula on Sales and Market Share
The impact of the formula change on Mountain Dew’s sales and market share has been difficult to assess. While some customers have embraced the new formula, others have been hesitant to try it, and some have switched to other brands altogether. However, overall, Mountain Dew’s sales and market share have remained relatively stable since the introduction of the new formula.
One factor that may have contributed to the stable sales and market share is the brand’s marketing efforts. Mountain Dew has launched several campaigns to promote the new formula, highlighting its improved taste and ingredients. Additionally, the brand has offered promotions and discounts to encourage customers to try the new formula. These efforts may have helped to mitigate any negative impact on sales and market share caused by the formula change.
Future Plans for Mountain Dew’s Formulation
While Mountain Dew has not announced any additional changes to its formula, the brand is continually innovating and introducing new flavors and varieties. Recently, the company introduced a line of “Game Fuel” drinks designed to appeal to gamers and video game enthusiasts. Mountain Dew also plans to expand its presence in international markets, introducing the brand to new customers around the world.
In addition to expanding its presence in international markets, Mountain Dew is also exploring new ways to reduce its environmental impact. The company has set a goal to use 100% recycled plastic in its bottles and cans by 2025. Mountain Dew is also working to reduce its carbon footprint by implementing more sustainable practices in its manufacturing and distribution processes. These efforts are part of the brand’s commitment to sustainability and ensuring a better future for the planet.
Conclusion: Is the New Mountain Dew Formula Worth a Try?
Overall, the new Mountain Dew formula is worth a try for those who enjoy the classic soda and are open to trying something new. While the new formula may not appeal to everyone, it provides a smoother, less intense taste and contains fewer artificial ingredients. Mountain Dew’s continued commitment to innovation and experimentation ensures that the brand will remain a favorite among soft drink fans for years to come.
