Pepsi is making itself Crystal clear this time

          With the reintroduction of the early 90’s classic “Crystal Pepsi,” an air of confusion mystifies many teens and young adults. Crystal Pepsi is a clear-colored cola that sold from 1992-1994, as well as a two day period in 2015 due to a giveaway in the United States, Canada, Europe and Australia. Despite its clear color, Crystal Pepsi  tastes like regular Pepsi.  Inspired by the re-release of the famous floating white soap Ivory, Pepsi looked to join in on the trend with their clear cola. Debuting with a Super Bowl XXVII commercial to Van Halen’s hit song “Right Now,” the clear cola seemed to be destined for success.

          Sadly, not everything happens as its expected. The drink experienced a depressing run (profit-wise). After being taken off the shelves after only two years of sales in the early 90’s, it was soon forgotten. In a 2007 interview with Fast Company magazine, Yum! Brands Chairman David C. Novak defended the drink, stating, “It was a tremendous learning experience. I still think it’s my best idea and the worst executed.”

          The soda was resurrected when grocers started selling Crystal Pepsi and other vintage sodas on Ebay for inflated amounts of money. The Huffington Post reported in 2012 that sodas like Crystal Pepsi, the citrus-flavored Surge and fruity energy drink Josta were selling for up to 250 dollars per bottle. Even up to a few months ago, Crystal Pepsi sold for up to 100 dollars on Ebay. Many people on the Internet started to call for a return of the clear beverage, including a Facebook group called “Bring Back Crystal Pepsi.” Fans circulated a petition on the page in 2010 to try and get Pepsi to bring the beverage back; nearly 40,000 people signed it.

          90’s kids got their wishes on Aug. 8 when Crystal Pepsi hit the shelves of big box stores like Walmart and Target. While consumers currently have easy access to the clear cola, according to the official Pepsi website, it’s only out for a limited time. Consumers who crave nostalgia will have to get a bottle (or fifty) before it’s too late.