Review: Pepsi Throwback
Apr 17th, 2009 by Steve
Update 01/06/10: Read our updated Pepsi Throwback review and updated Mountain Dew Throwback review, both featuring new designs, available for 8 weeks starting December 28, 2009.
Listen to our NPR interview about Pepsi Throwback.
One of the most anticipated beverages of 2009 is hitting shelves with the arrival of Pepsi Throwback, a natural sugar version of Pepsi sweetened with a combination of cane/beet sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). Possessing an official release date of April 20, this limited edition soft drink will be available for only 8 weeks.
Pepsi Throwback
We first talked about Pepsi Throwback here at BevReview.com back in February, originally taking a look at the trademark filings for the new drink (along with its sibling, Mountain Dew Throwback). It wasn't long thereafter that prototype bottle designs were released to the 'net, gaining positive reaction from those who caught a glimpse. It was great to finally see something like this coming to the States after watching the UK get Pepsi Raw and Mexico launching Pepsi Retro.
Same bottle design and blue cap as regular Pepsi
Eventually, we were able to get in touch with the folks at Pepsi to answer our questions about the new drink, including confirming the final artwork design (different from the prototypes), sugar composition, and release window. Add to all that the release of Pepsi Natural, the annual hunt for Kosher for Passover Pepsi, and the continued disdain for Pepsi's new logo, and frankly, it's been a busy few months for the red-and-white Globe!
Love the taste, hate the design
It's been interesting to read the comments both here and elsewhere on the Web — especially Twitter — regarding the enthusiasm about a drink that no one has actually tasted yet. Why do you think that is? Obviously, there has been quite a bit of news about high fructose corn syrup lately (mostly negative, to the chagrin of the folks at the Corn Refiners Association). But to me personally, as a beverage enthusiast, the anticipation of something like Pepsi Throwback goes beyond any health concerns, whatever they may be — and not discounting them. I think I'm more curious about actual taste, and having experienced drinks like Kosher Pepsi, Kosher Coke, and even Mexican Coke, there's just something about the use of sugar in a soft drink that really makes it that much better. I mean, why are you reading this review? What's your interest in this new soda that Pepsi has thrown our way?
Don't let your Throwback go stale!
You have to admit that it's an interesting concept for PepsiCo to bring to market. One might argue that they were responding to the 'HFCS backlash'. When I talked to Nicole Bradley of Pepsi-Cola North America Beverages about the removal of high fructose corn syrup and the current debate over the use of that sweetener, I was pointed to the official press release spin on the purpose of the Throwback line: "'As we revamp our brand with our 'refresh everything' campaign, we want to give a nod to the fun things of the past… For some, it will be a trip down memory lane but for others, it will be a chance to experience a new twist on their favorite brands'." She noted that "these products were not created because of any health concerns. There is a lot of misinformation circulating about HFCS, but the truth is that it's made from corn and contains no artificial or synthetic ingredients or color additives. HFCS is essentially the same as table sugar and is metabolized the same." Hmmm.
(Source: Beverage-Digest.com)
Perhaps the reasoning trumps the HFCS debate and is more in tune with their struggling financial performance vs. Coke or even the flagship's position in the marketplace. According to Beverage Digest's "Top 10 CSD Results for 2008" report (PDF) released back in March, Pepsi still sits at the #2 spot in market share, but Diet Coke is ever so close in overtaking it from the #3 position. And while the CSD (which is industry parlance for "carbonated soft drinks") continues to decline — dropping 3% in 2008, continuing a 4 year trend — Coke Zero saw 36% growth.
New Pepsi Logo
(Source: uspto.gov)
Meanwhile, Pepsi sort of botched their entry into this "not regular, not diet" market with the release of Diet Pepsi Max, later redesigned, and finally renamed just Pepsi Max. (Let's not forget that Coke Zero also got a redesign — remember the original white packaging?). All this to say that in 2009, Pepsi seems to be in a position to throw a lot more "hail mary" passes out there to see if something in the marketplace will gain traction (Pepsi logo redesign, anyone?), and as customers, we benefit with releases like Pepsi Natural and Pepsi Throwback (which incidentally cater to the growing anti-HFCS side of the debate). Whether sales support that will be answered later.
Kosher for Passover Pepsi
Now if you were to talk to someone who doesn't care about beverages or HFCS or whatnot, they will probably ask you what the big deal is about Pepsi Throwback. And frankly, they'll probably be right. Thus for those of us who aren't "soda snobs", I figured the best way to really understand Pepsi Throwback is to put it into context with what everyone already knows, regular Pepsi. Of course, by 'regular' I mean the everyday Pepsi you find on any store shelf, sweetened with high fructose corn syrup. For the sake of this review, we'll call that HFCS Pepsi.
Mexican Pepsi
To add more context, I also sampled Kosher Pepsi, which I picked up a few weeks ago. Finally, I'm drawing on previous experiences with Mexican Pepsi, which you can find in many Hispanic grocery stores around Chicago.
Pepsi Natural
I intentionally didn't compare the taste to Pepsi Natural, because as I noted in my review, Natural has a completely different flavor profile and really shouldn't be grouped together with the flagship drink flavors.
Yes… it has SUGAR!
Let's start by comparing the ingredients in all 4 entries:
HFCS Pepsi
Carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, caramel color, sugar, phosphoric acid, caffeine, citric acid, natural flavor
Pepsi Throwback
Carbonated water, sugar, caramel color, phosphoric acid, caffeine, natural flavor
Kosher Pepsi
Carbonated water, sugar, caramel color, phosphoric acid, caffeine, citric acid, natural flavors
Mexican Pepsi
Carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup and/or sucrose, caramel color, phosphoric acid, natural flavors, caffeine
One thing I have noticed over the years is how the bubbles of each of these drinks are different when poured into a glass. HFCS-sweetened drinks tend to have large, irregularly-shaped bubbles, while sugar-sweetened beverages have nice, tight bubbles. Take a look:
HFCS Pepsi: Large Bubbles
Pepsi Throwback: Small Bubbles
Kosher for Passover Pepsi: Small Bubbles
Pepsi Natural: Small Bubbles
I tracked down a 20 oz. plastic bottle of Pepsi Throwback for this review. Per Pepsi, the drink is available in both this size and 12-pack cans. Those of you desiring a glass bottle are of out luck.
The bottle design is exactly as noted in the official press release images from February. For the 20 oz. bottle, the same plastic design that's used for HFCS Pepsi is used, featuring the vertical 'swirl' pattern. The 1940's Pepsi-Cola script logo is used to identify the product, seemingly "cut out" of the rest of the blue background by a baby blue shadow. The dark blue background color is the same blue used in the Pepsi logo redesign and I can confirm it looks just like the blue on the HFCS Pepsi bottle.
The logo is rotated vertically, so you have to turn your head to the left to read it. Below this logo is the word "Throwback", spelled in lowercase letters using the same font as is used in the Pepsi logo redesign. In smaller type, the phrase "made with natural sugar" can be found, emphasis on "natural sugar", also in lowercase. The can design follows this same style… dark blue/baby blue, Pepsi-Cola script, sideways lettering, lowercase modern font from the logo redesign.
Frankly, I have to take Pepsi to task on this label design. It stinks!
When sitting next to HFCS Pepsi in a cooler at a 7-Eleven (which is where I found my bottle), you'd be hard-pressed to pick out Pepsi Throwback as different from the regular offering. The use of the same blue background color, the very hard-to-read logo, and small font used for the phrase "Throwback" just seem weak. It's as if this design was pieced together from clip art from many different departments, with committees arguing how this should look. The overall presentation is not extraordinary or innovative, especially when seeing what might have been.
Prototype Pepsi Throwback Design
(Source: Pepsi Bottling Group)
The look does not help set this product apart in the marketplace. I wonder if the Arnell Group folks were involved in this design. They were the ones behind the new Pepsi logo, along with the radical redesign of Tropicana orange juice packaging, which PepsiCo later backtracked on after customer backlash. Needless to say, I'm not too impressed.
Upon opening the bottle of Pepsi Throwback, you actually aren't greeted with much of a scent. This is in contrast to HFCS Pepsi, which produces a far more acidic and bubbly experience when opened. Throwback was more neutral in this regard, which was a bit surprising. I expected more of a smell, especially since Pepsi Natural with its use of cane/beet sugar had a nice profile for the nose. Contrastly, Kosher Pepsi had more of a caramel syrup smell, on par with what is found with Mexican Pepsi.
Let's move on to the flavor itself, which is probably why you are reading this review in the first place. (Seriously, I imagine you sitting there going "geez, this guy is babbling on and on about nothing… just tell me what it tastes like, you idiot!") Let's not forget Pepsi's official marketing pitch for this drink:
"This spring, Pepsi and Mountain Dew are inviting consumers on a nostalgic trip back in time by offering special retro versions of these popular beverages.""The Pepsi Throwback and Mountain Dew Throwback packaging feature a retro look and are sweetened with natural sugar, just as they were back in the '60s and '70s, to give consumers a taste of the past"
The selling point of Pepsi Throwback is that key phrase, "natural sugar." Just what is that? When I asked Pepsi about this, they noted that the Throwbacks are "sweetened with natural sugar, a blend of cane sugar and beet sugar."
If you are scratching your head on that, let me explain. There are basically two types of sugar that can be used. Cane sugar — which is sourced from sugarcane that is grown above the ground — and beet sugar — which is pulled from beets grown underground. Some prefer one type or the other, but from a marketing perspective, you'll often see cane sugar as being sold as the "higher quality" sweetener (see Jones Soda and Boylan, to name a few). I'm not a food scientist, so your mileage may vary. Just know that Pepsi Throwback uses a blend of these, though I'm not sure what percentage of each is used in the mix.
The new Pepsi "Globe" has a smaller presence
On that same note, Pepsi confirmed that Throwback is NOT Kosher. Their official statement is that "neither product will be Kosher. The Throwback formulations are not the same as the formulas used for the Kosher beverages." Having tasted both side-by-side, I can confirm that yes, they do taste different from each other.
And just what is that taste? (Yeah, I know, you are anxious!) Well, I'd like you to envision drinking a HFCS Pepsi. Now remove the syrupy residue that enters your mouth during the middle part of your tasting experience, as well as the aftertaste. Replace it with a full-bodied "Pepsi flavor", not just at the end of the drink, but during the entire experience. While HFCS Pepsi starts out a bit watery, with a bit of chemical flavor, Pepsi Throwback is cleaner, producing a consistent cola taste from first sip, while it passes over your tongue, and eventually the aftertaste as it goes down your throat.
Comparing Pepsi Throwback to the other versions in our pool, frankly, I was surprised. I really thought Kosher Pepsi and Pepsi Throwback would taste very similar, but they were quite different. Of the two, Pepsi Throwback was more muted, with a dryer, dare I say Coke-like taste in that it was less sweet than Kosher Pepsi. When the two were tasted side-by-side, I felt that Pepsi Throwback was the baseline flavor, while Kosher Pepsi added some additional flavor on top of that baseline, basically coming off as sweeter of the two. Interestingly, they both have roughly 3.3 mg/oz of sugars, but I wonder if the difference is in what makes up those sugars. Mexican Pepsi is also in the same ballpark with level of sugar, but often has less carbonation due to loss during transportation and a slightly different formulation, so it's hard to compare at times. It should also be noted that the ingredients for Pepsi Throwback note "Natural Flavor", while both Mexican Pepsi and Kosher Pepsi showcase the plural "Natural Flavors". Interpret that how you will. In any case, they all taste different.
When stacked up against HFCS Pepsi, frankly you just want to spit out that stuff and run away. You won't really believe that you put up with such swill for so long. And frankly, I think that's the best way to appreciate Pepsi Throwback. Get some friends together, buy a bottle of Throwback and a bottle of the HFCS stuff. Compare them. Make your own determinations. But I bet 9 times out of 10, you'll find folks preferring Pepsi Throwback. That kind of comparison is the only sales pitch you really need!
Seriously, what's with the poor design?
So, yeah, I give a big "thumbs up" to Pepsi Throwback. It succeeds in flavor where the packaging and brand fail it. Unfortunately, when sitting on a shelf in a store, "flavor" doesn't really help sell, so let's hope word spreads about what I like to call the "Throwback Difference". You only have a little time to savor this stuff. Per Pepsi, "Pepsi Throwback and Mountain Dew Throwback will be available nationwide for about 8 weeks beginning April 20," which gives you a date range of April 20-June 15 to stock up. Go stimulate the economy!
And just what if this drink sells well? Mark Ficher of the Dayton Daily News posed the following question to Pepsi: "What if consumer response is overwhelmingly positive? Might Pepsi change its mind about the limited-time offer?" Their response? "We'll have to see."
For the record, Pepsi Throwback contains 3.2 mg/oz. of caffeine, which is the same as HFCS Pepsi, Pepsi Natural, and Kosher Pepsi. (By comparison, Coca-Cola Classic has 2.9 mg/oz., while Mountain Dew contains 4.5 mg/oz.) Drinking an entire 20 oz. bottle will cost you 260 calories, 10 more than HFCS Pepsi. Is it worth it? I think the flavor speaks for itself.
Overall, Pepsi Throwback is a great beverage for those seeking to taste Pepsi the way it was meant to be — and don't have access to niche versions like Kosher Pepsi and Mexican Pepsi. The flavor is surprisingly full, yet subtle, muting the overboard acidness and chemical taste, resulting in a clean interpretation of the classic Pepsi taste. This is one drink you'll want to throwback… again, and again, and again!
[...] Read our review of Pepsi Throwback. Keep reading below to learn more background information about Pepsi Throwback and Mountain Dew [...]
[...] Read our review of Pepsi Throwback. Keep reading below to learn more background information about Pepsi Throwback and Mountain Dew [...]
[...] Read our review of Pepsi Throwback. Keep reading below to learn more background information about the UNUSED prototype bottle designs [...]
Great review. I am headed to 7-11 after work to find a 6-pack!
The official release is the 20th? I just picked up a bottle of Mountain Dew Throwback at the local grocery store.. I like it, and much prefer it to regular MD. The description of it being "full bodied" holds true for the MD too, there isn't any chemical taste at all. Very nice, I hope they decide to keep it on as a regular product (unlikely).
http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/2177/photo6o.jpg
I picked up a 12 pack of both today, I can't wait to try them, though I think I will probably enjoy the Dew more, just due to my preference. I would have tried the Pepsi throwback already, but I'm finishing up some kosher coke now.
I've been excited about the arrival of real sugar Mt Dew and Pepsi since I heard about it a couple of months ago. I had already discovered the Mexican Coke in the grocery store and was blown away by how good it was. It must have been 20 plus years since I've tasted the real stuff in a big brand name, and my taste buds instantly remembered that great flavor. Yesterday I bought 3 packs of the Throwback Dew and a pack of Throwback Pepsi. I chilled a few cans of each overnight. Today was the day, nice and cold, I cracked my first Dew. With all the anticipation building, (I know we are just talking about soda here) I took a sip. My taste buds instantly rejected everything about it. I couldn't believe how awful it was. My first thought was it tasted like, but worse than, diet soda with an incredible after taste. The next thing I thought was there is no way this was made with real cane sugar. The third thing that entered my mind was the citrus flavor. What or where was it? It took me 5 hours to make myself drink one can, thinking maybe I need to just get use to it. Later I tried the Pepsi thinking "Cola, they can't screw that up". The rest of the day went by and I couldn't even get half of the can down. I dumped the rest. It had much the same 'diety' flavor and after taste as the Dew, not even remotely similar to any Pepsi product of the past or present day. The rest of the day and into the late night as I write this, I still have this horrible after taste in my mouth, even after eating dinner. What happened? How in the world could Pepsi try to pass this off as stuff I use to drink in the 70's and the 80's. How hard is it to pull a recipe out of a drawer that made a company a giant and just make it like they use to? That means don't mess with it. I know it’s just pop, but what were they thinking? I know the 30 and younger crowd doesn't have a clue how good soda use to be, but the 40 and up crowd does. Was this intentionally made to taste bad so producers of HFCS can say, "See how much better our product is than real sugar?" Needless to say, I will be returning my two unopened 12 packs to the store, and donate the rest to a food pantry.
Where are you guys finding the Throwback? I'm dying to pick some up!
I picked up one of each today and I have to say I am hooked. Which is disappointing considering its limited run (I'll be stocking up!). Pepsi TB is a much mellower taste that the standard HFCS version. For me, it compliments foods so much more. Mtn. Dew TB is excellent, because you can really taste the citris, where the standard HFCS version tends to have a powerful acidic quality.
Great review, and I encourge all Pepsi and Mt. Dew lovers to give these a try!
[...] Found a review of Pepsi Throwback, nothing yet on Mt. Dew Review: Pepsi Throwback » Sugar-sweetened Pepsi-Cola without High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) » BevR… [...]
I found it in Memphis on friday…since i've had about 3 bottles of the Pepsi and 2 of the Mt Dew. The Pepsi is not as good as I remembered. It's better than the HFCS, but it's just not as sweet as I remembered. Maybe I need it out of a glass bottle
@ Necrothug "Mtn. Dew TB is excellent, because you can really taste the citris, where the standard HFCS version tends to have a powerful acidic quality."
I couldn't agree with you more. The last "regular" Mountain Dew I drank tasted like something you'd use to remove paint. The throwback just tastes like it should taste.
I Don't Know How It Get Here, But My Dad Buys It And He Forgot Mountain Dew Throwback!
I found some Mountain Dew TB at Walmart in Springfield, OH last night. I had no idea that this was coming but I quickly snatched up two 12 packs.
So far, it seems a lot more mellow than I remember it but I don't know if that's just my tastebuds bracing for that acid shock that will never come. I'm looking forward to trying Pepsi TB as soon as I can find it.
[...] corn syrup era. Whether this be through Kosher Pepsi, Mexican Pepsi, Pepsi Natural, or even the new Pepsi Throwback, if you had a will, there was a way to find that familiar cola flavor with sugar. The same has not [...]
[...] this week's release of Pepsi Throwback and Mountain Dew Throwback, there has been a lot of buzz about these new drinks. And why not? It's [...]
HFCS is bad. I can't wait to try this soda. I buy Mexican Coke whenever I can find it.
FYI…If you're worried about corn allergies…we called PepsiCo today to find out what the "natural flavor" consists of - it's modified corn starch! The lady tried to tell me that all the allergens had been removed from it and that PepsiCo follows FDA guidelines, but I've had bad experiences before with "modified corn starch". I was disappointed. Also, I still vote Mexican Pepsi better then Throwback.
Pepsi Throwback is awesome I only seem to be able to find the 591ml though have yet to try the mountain Dew throwback but ya been buyig the pepsi throwback non stop trying to stockpile this stuff I really hope they choose to keep this stuff around due to the positive hype this product is recieving. HFCS is recieving a lot of negative consumer criticism and for good reason. if anyone has facebook there is a guy trying to make a petition to pepsi to keep this excellent product. So if your interested please check it out write on there page about how great there product is as well, and who knows maybe we will have something great year round.
I just tried mountain dew throwback today. I didn't even know they were making this change. But I have to say I hope that this change is not permanent or atleast that you can still buy the regular mountain dew. I think the new mountain dew throwback was nasty. It tasted like diet mountain dew but worse. If they continue to make mountain dew this way and don't make regular mountain dew available then I will probably stop drinking mountain dew all together.
[...] don't know about you, but it seems there's a lot of buzz now that Pepsi Throwback and Mountain Dew Throwback have been released. These drinks came out on April 20 and are only [...]
I bought a 12 pack yesterday and it was awesome . I agree with the author that this is a refreshing drink that I remember from my high schook days in the 60's.
I went back today and bought a case. I will probably buy 10 cases to last till the January 2010 exp. date.
Dam , I hope this becomes a permanant offering from Pepsi.
[...] info about Pepsi throwback. Review: Pepsi Throwback » Natural cane & beet sugar Pepsi-Cola without High Fructose Corn Syrup… Mountain Dew throwback Review: Mountain Dew Throwback » Natural cane & beet sugar Mtn Dew [...]
I want to get my hands on some of this! Unfortunetly I live in the middle of the desert so my choices are rather slim. Here's hoping I can find them at a Super Target or Walmart. *Crosses Fingers*
Any seen it at CostCo?
Anybody find it in Houston yet?
[...] admit, I didn't really have anything to talk about this week. I tried Pepsi Throwback and it tasted like…Pepsi. I used Goo Gone for the first time and it worked on all of the [...]
Today I accidentally bought a bottle of Dew TB. When I opened it up and took a swig I thought there must have been something terribly wrong with this batch. Was it flat? No. Then I inspected the bottle and saw the "Throwback" on there. I have to agree with John up above. I don't believe that Dew ever tasted this nasty. They must be doing something wrong. I'm 43 and don't remember it ever tasting like this. I wish they would make the throwback bottles more different so real Mountain Dew junkies like me don't get them confused. I had no idea they were doing this until I accidentally bought one. I'll take theHFCS any day. If this were to be a permanent replacement I would only drink Diet Dew.
[...] Pepsi Throwback Review by BevReview [...]
My wife and I tried the HFCS Pepsi / Pepsi Throwback Challenge this weekend. After blindly sampling each we both liked the sugar version over the HFCS one. Your review concerning their flavor were spot on by the way. Once the throwback is gone (in 7 weeks!) looks like I'll have to start searching for Mexican Pepsi. Ridiculous.
I honestly don't like the taste of either one of them. To me it is too sweet tasting. But who am I to judge. Glad it will be gone in 8 weeks!
Can't find any Throwback anywhere in the LA area. Ralphs, Vons, Pavilions, Target, Wal-Mart, Albertsons, 7-11…all a bust. Anyone have any leads?
I had been on the hunt for Kosher Coke but couldn't find any in Nashville, TN, where I live. After a weekend in Gatlinburg, TN, I stopped in a gas station on my way out of town and was thrilled to find Pepsi and Mountain Dew Throwback. I grabbed 2 12 packs of each and a cold 20oz of each for the drive. I wasn't that impressed with the Mountain Dew — though I've been losing a taste for the HFCS Mt. Dew as well lately — but the Pepsi is quite different and better, in my opinion.
does everybody know what natural flavor is. it is msg! take that out and i will try it!
In the L.A. area, bottles of Pepsi TB and Mountain Dew TB can be/were found at the 7-Eleven on the corner of La Cienega and Olympic.
I just tries the Pepsi TB and my gosh I thought it was a diet soda. Not because it is less sweet, but the horrible after taste. I am in my 40's as well and colas did not taste like this in my youth. I have to agree, how hard could it be to break out the old recipes? I am disappointed.
[...] Review of Pepsi Throwback (notice the difference in the carbonation) [...]
[...] Review of Pepsi Throwback (notice the difference in the carbonation) [...]
[...] Ruby Splash is here to stay long-term — something I'd personally love to see happen to Pepsi Throwback and Mountain Dew Throwback, but what do I know… I just review [...]
I grew up in the 60's and 70's drinking original Pepsi and Dr. Pepper and I was so looking forward to tasting real Pepsi again and Pepsi Throwback isn't it. One of my biggest memories of original Pepsi is how the carbonation danced on the surface when poured in a glass and tickled your nose. Pepsi Throwback almost seems flat. When poured into a glass, the bubbles disapate very fast and whats left in the can tastes even flatter
after only a few minutes. Like someone else mentioned, it tastes more Coke like than Pepsi. It almost tastes like diet. I am very disapointed in this new release. BTW, Dublin Dr. Pepper does taste like the Dr. Pepper I drank as a kid.
Actually, this tastes to me very much like the Pepsi I remember as a kid. From the first taste to the ways the taste changes as it warms up (would you believe that I think the taste improves as it warms up) to the smell as you work on those last drops, it's all very much like the original Pepsi to me. The Mountain Dew Throwback is marginally better; maybe they should add in the Concentrated Orange Juice to the mix for the extra flavor.
I think that TB Mt. Dew was horrible. Taste just like a diet pop. I didn't realize I bought it and I took a drink and literally spit it back out. But I really dont like diet pop. So if your a diet fan its prolly right up your alley.
i want some!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
nowhere to be found in downey
any secret locations i should know about?
Hey, I had to come out to your website after buying and trying, and I have to say that it is definitely worth buying. You can really taste the difference and it is smooth and groovy.
I'm going to grab some Mountain Dew TB ASAP, and I hope that Pepsi gets the message and decides to make this a permanent product.
I've been waiting months for this product but after nearly three weeks I have yet to see it anywhere in Canada. Is this a USA only release? If so that's very unfortunate for the rest of us.
I was really excited to try this. I come from a family that drinks Pepsi exclusively (my grandma and my mom always drank Pepsi, so it was the first kind of pop I ever drank) so when I heard about this, which was only April 30th since it was the first time I saw the commercial, I went right to the store. Fortunately, K-Mart was running a sale on Pepsi 12 packs so I grabbed the last 2 cases of Pepsi TB and 2 of Dew TB. I loved the Pepsi TB right away. With the normal Pepsi, I rarely finish the can and leave the last little bit because I can't drink it that fast and the rest goes flat. But with the TB, I can finish the can. And even when it's not so cold, it still tastes good. I went back to a can of regular Pepsi after drinking several cans of TB, and I almost couldn't stand drinking it. It's going to be sad when it's no longer available. As for the Dew TB, I like it. Which is strange, because I hate normal Dew because it's too sweet. I only like Code Red. I hope they end up making the TB versions permanent because the Pepsi TB is really hard to find around here. So far, I've only found 4 12 packs and 2 20 oz. bottles. Finding the Dew TB is really easy. But I'm sure it's due to people hoarding it since it's limited.
Ok, im on my 6th 12 pack of Pepsi TB. My teenagers love it! Not quite what i was expecting (would have been better in a glass bottle chilled to about 38 degrees!). Seems to be a hit in the Carolinas (at least my FoodLion cant keep it in stock). We are on our 4th 12 pack of Mountain Dew TB. Id have to say overall, we LOVE it!
Its to bad for 5 % of all these people have been drinking corn syrup for so long that their taste buds prefer the mercury laced corn syrup.
I defiantly think Pepsi Throwback is giving what the customers want they want- CHOICE between the 2,with corn syrup or without. I rarely drink soda anymore but I will be a soda drinker for the next 8 weeks!
They are also suppose to make a diet drink with STEVIA/PURVIA, and that sweetener comes from a plant from nature.
[...] made with sugar, not corn syrup, like it used to [...]
It is still not as good as Honduran Pepsi in the glass bottle. Forget the mexican stuff, they use hfcs and phos. acid like the US does. The Honduran is with citric acid (which is actually an antacid, stranglely enough) and cane sugar. Now, if they had the real original recipe, it would have pepsin - the enzyme. We could all have a glass after a meal!
[...] Review: Pepsi Throwback [...]
I was just telling a co-worker about this today–I was so excited when I tried this on Saturday, and last night I actually checked the grocery store to see if it was available in a 2-litre or a 12-pack, but they didn't have it.
As someone above said, this is how I remember Pepsi tasting back in the late 80s/early 90s–whether or not that's due to the lack of HFCS, I couldn't say since I'm not sure how long they've been using it, but I definitely prefer the Throwback. Interestingly, "regular" Pepsi also gives me a fierce headache–two bottles of Pepsi Throwback later, and I haven't had any headaches from it.
Pepsi and Mt. Dew Throwback is awesome! They taste and smell just like they used to-back in the day. No thick, syrupy taste. Hope it stays around forever.
The only right way to drink ANY of this stuff is warm, and then pour it into a glass filled with ice CUBES (not crushed ice). TRY IT that way. The flavors really POP, and you will love the sound of the ice cracking. Inhale a good noseful before your first sip. Nirvana!
Lifestyles don't allow this today, but that was the way we ALL used to drink it in the 1950's. Refrigerators were small, and there usually was not a lot of room to cool bottles of Coke or Pepsi. So it was always room temperature, and then poured over ice cubes. TRY IT that way.
I only heard about this real sugar today on NPR, and went right out to try to find it. One supermarket was ALL SOLD OUT, the other "didn't have it in yet." and I found it cold in the cooler at a local corner store. I have to let it warm up before I try it. I haven't bought Anything carbonated for years, except Schweppes Tonic Water, and frankly the corn syrup doesn't do ANYTHING for a Gin and Tonic. (They also taste better with warm tonic water over ice). Hopefully that will be switched next!
Pepsi got rid of the Trans fats in their snack div., and they will see a pick up in carbonated beverages, in my view, if they go back to real sugar. And Coke' won't be far behind if Pepsi is successful. I might even start buying it again! A little GOOD NEWS at a time when there isn't much good news about anything…
The company that designed the Throwback Pepsi original prototype design is http://www.selectdesign.com. Arnell killed this design, among many other great ones, during the final stages of this project. Too bad, I like the old one better!
I wish Coke and Dr. Pepper would follow suit. HFCS leaves a nasty, slimy feeling in your mouth. I've had Dr. Pepper bottled in Dublin, Tex., which still uses cane sugar, and nothing compares to it.
Just don't try to stock up on Pepsi Throwback. Like Passover Coke, it doesn't keep as long.
Awsome!!!!! great taste!!! Bring back my childhood memories of soda fountain drinks
should be making it all the time forget the corn syrup junk reuins the taste of sugar. bring back the regular vanilla pepsi in throwback.
I enjoyed the pepsi throwback and look forward to having the mountain dew throwback. They are really good and hope they'll be coming out with more of them soon.
Pepsi Throwback sucks.
Not enough Kola nut flavoring.
They should pull out the true blue 1972 Pepsi formula.
Now theres "the Real Thing"
My King Soopers up in Boulder has had a hard time keeping these babies in stock and it's not hard to see why - Pepsi with real sugar instead of HFCS is absolutely to die for!
I love both pepsi throwback and mountain dew throwback. Im surprised so many seem to dislike the Mountain Dew TB. It actually tastes like citrus! Its SO MUCH BETTER. I can't understand how anyone would prefer horrible HFCS Mountain Dew.
I just pray Pepsi does not take these off the market. I love how there is no longer a terrible syrup aftertaste or gritty feeling on the teeth. It's just a superior beverage, period.
we already have three 12 packs in the cupboard. way better than normal pepsi.
i hope they keep it in stock for at least a year or so…
@matthwq: I wish it was permanent as well, but looks like only 8 weeks.
I drink a Coke/Pepsi maybe… once a month. It wasn't bad, it's just that there are other things that taste better to me, like Dr. Pepper, Fufu Berry, and Brisk raspberry tea. But I had to try this as soon as I saw it at the store. Once I tried it, I couldn't stop until it was gone! This stuff was amazing, so smooth and not syrupy at all. I never thought that I'd want to drink a lot of Pepsi again, but now I do, and when the end of the 8 weeks nears, I'll be stocking up.
cant find it anywhere in Quad Cities (IA/IL) since advertising blitz began early May . Any help?
I love it.I hope Coke does this also, as I like it better but will switch to Pepsi if they keep throwback.
OMG - Strictly a coca-cola fan for decades, something about the "natural sugar" made me want to give Pepsi TB a try. Hello!!! There's the soda from my childhood from the soda fountain. This is what I remember all soda tasting like when I was a kid. I called Pepsi to tell them that I'm the one hoarding all of the Pepsi TB and begged them to keep stocking it beyond the promotion. They said "we'll see - but comments like yours are encouraging" so call the number on the can/bottle and let them know how you feel.
I am on my way through the end of a 12 pack of throwback Pepsi notice any difference between the throwback and the regular kind. I think I am used to it now. Hopefully Pepsi will decide to keep it so I won't have to get used to the fructose syrup version. The sugar throwback version goes down much easier, less aftertaste (if any), and it doesn't go flat. The fructose syrup version would go flat towards the end of the can. The throwback version doesn't.
I am on my way through the end of a 12 pack of throwback Pepsi. After 8 cans or so, I do not notice any difference between the throwback and the regular kind. I think I am used to it now. Hopefully Pepsi will decide to keep it so I won't have to get used to the fructose syrup version again. The sugar throwback version goes down much easier, less aftertaste (if any), and it doesn't go flat. The fructose syrup version would go flat towards the end of the can. The throwback version does not.
This may sound stupid; but I enjoy Mountain Dew and have since 1980. I am now 40 years old and i find the throwback drink much more delicious than the frutcose corn syrup mixture of today. My reason will seem weird to some, but I like the natural sugar because when I was a teen I like Mountain Dew for the fact that it could get warm and I could still drink it and enjoy it. Nowadays, with the frutcose corn syrup mixture; when it gets warm it just seems too sweet and "syrupy" to drink. I bought a throwback two hours ago, and it still taste great. Weird reasoning; I know, but that is my opinion.
I really like Pepsi Throwback, while I did not like the taste of Pepsi Natural at all. I am an admitted Pepsi addict, but I think that when Pepsi Throwback is no longer available I'll quit drinking it altogether, because I do not like the unnatural, concentrated sweeteners like HFCS. Consuming high amounts of natural sugar itself isn't good for you either, but I'll take one Pepsi Throwback a day over any of the HCFS Pepsis or 0-calorie Pepsis.
Why are you only giving this marvelous soda an eight week life span? I have only found it in Kentucky this last week end while down visiting relatives. After tasting it was sure that I had found the drink that I could truly love again. Again I ask why only eight weeks? This could easily replace anything you have made before.
Hard core Pepsi drinker tastes the new throwback….
And when I say hard core I mean that Pepsi is quite literally the only thing I drink besides a glass of milk for supper. I bought a 12 pack of this stuff and after 2 cans I went out and bought the regular pepsi. All I can say is BLECH! Tooooooooooooo sweet. Almost tastes like that sickening sweet taste you get with diet sodas. ICK! Glad its on a limited run.
I disagree with the comment by Michelle, allthough I felt as she did when I had my first few cans of Pepsi Throwback. After a dozen or more cans of it, I began to like it better than the current Pepsi version. For a few reasons. The current version contains high fructose corn syrup as opposed to the sugar in the throwback version. At one time, throwback was the "original" Pepsi.
The HFCS syrup version is too thick and syrupy in my opinion. It also goes flat towards the end of the can where as the throwback version does not. The throwback version also goes down a lot easier than the HFCS version, in my opinion. Also, the HFCS version has a chemical aftertaste that can be rather annoying. The aftertaste is absent in the throwback version. I do not think Pepsi Throwback resembles diet sodas in the least.
I hope Pepsi will keep the throwback version and also the other version available so that people can choose what they want. That way everybody is happy.
WOW I am impressed with the Pepsi Throwback> It taste the way Pepsi did when I was a kid.I would start buying it again if it was this way again.There is something to say about good old sugar,,,Yum.
Based on the comments, it appears that those who lived in the pre-corn syrup era enjoy the Pepsi Throwback more than those who live in the current corn syrup era. I believe much of the negative reaction is because of something they are not used to. Back when corn syrup replaced suga in the sodas, I am sure there was negative reaction for a while, at least until people got used to it.
I am used to the corn syrup version, but I am used to the sugar version now and actually prefer it.
Found Pepsi TB at Randall's in Houston. Sorry to say it has a slightly diety taste which is not as nice as Mexican Pepsi or Coke. Definitely not as sweet as I would like. Noted that they also removed the Citric Acid and wonder if this is making a difference.
[...] stuff, including a lunchbox, CD player, lava lamp, trucker hat, and of course, cans of new Pepsi Throwback and Mountain Dew Throwback. Pepsi Throwback [...]
I really enjoy Pepsi Throwback. I wasn't sure what it was when I saw it at this little store at first, but decided it was a new soda product which was intrigued me enough to want to try it! I soon learned of the Mt. Dew Throwback, but would just as soon drink Diet Mt. Dew, I think. However, the Pepsi TB has stuck with me since first sip! I also enjoy the look of the packaging. I find it does seem to go flat a bit sooner than many other sodas, though. It reminds me of when Coke launched it's 1/2 calorie soda that I LOVED, C2. Whatever happened to that?! Did Coke Zero just replace it? (Personally, I think Coke Zero is pretty gross and will usually only drink it as a last resort). Anyway, loving the Pepsi TB, and I think Coke should bring back C2!!!
i was always a coke drinker, but since i tasted the throwback pepsi, i have to say it reminds me just like it tasted in the late 60's. please dont stop making it. in today's times where the economy is so bad, and family is not like it was- back then. it is so nice to taste something that makes you think of the good old days. times are rough for most. and nostalgia is the best cure.
I don't think Pepsi throwback goes flat at all. The high fructose corn syrup version goes flat after a while though.
Pepsi TB is great. Hope they keep it around. Brought me back to my childhood. Thanks pepsi! : )
Yuk…gross….ptoooiiiii!
I have been a Pepsi fan for over 40 years and I don't remember EVER tasting anything quite this gross called Pepsi anything. The only thing I think needs to be brought back is glass bottles!!
where can I get pepsi throw back? I live in upstate NY. I have not been able to find in any store.
Some who have been around in the pre-corn syrup era say that Pepsi Throwback tastes just like it did back in the day and some say it doesn't. Surely, no one is lying. But, why do we have people who have experienced pre-corn syrup Pepsi saying two different things? Makes no sense to me.
Perhaps it is because some have got used to the corn syrup version and are having a hard time adjusting to the throwback sugar version. And those who say it tastes the same as it did back then may have stopped drinking it once the corn syrup replaced the sugar in the Pepsi, remembering it as it was before corn syrup replaced sugar.
It took me a few cans to get used to the throwback version because I have only experienced the corn syrup version. I now preger the throwback sugar version. It goes down much easier, doesn't go flat, and tastes better. No heavy chemical aftertaste.
Some who have been around in the pre-corn syrup era say that Pepsi Throwback tastes just like it did back in the day and some say it doesn't. Surely, no one is lying. But, why do we have people who have experienced pre-corn syrup Pepsi saying two different things? Makes no sense to me.
Perhaps it is because some have got used to the corn syrup version and are having a hard time adjusting to the throwback sugar version. And those who say it tastes the same as it did back then may have stopped drinking it once the corn syrup replaced the sugar in the Pepsi, remembering it as it was before corn syrup replaced sugar.
It took me a few cans to get used to the throwback version because I have only experienced the corn syrup version. I now prefer the throwback sugar version. It goes down much easier, doesn't go flat, and tastes better. No heavy chemical aftertaste.
I can't wait for Pepsi made with Stevia–made in Stevia, Indiana!
Can't find pepsi throwback in upstate SC
i absolutely hate pepsi throwback, it is the most disgusting thing ever. they better not get rid of their regular pepsi and replace it with that crap!
I bought a 12-pack of Pepsi Natural at Costco this week, accidentally confusing it with Pepsi Throwback. PN is VERY different. I for one do not like it. I've been giving away bottles left and right. I really want the Throwback!!
I totally disagree with Alex's comment. I like the throwback version better, allthough it took me a few cans to get used it. Now I love it!
By the way, the current Pepsi is not the "regular" or "orginal" Pepsi. Ask those who have experienced Pepsi before they started using high fructose corn syrup and they will tell you otherwise. The throwback version is supposed to resemble Pepsi before corn syrup was used. Corn syrup replaced sugar. I prefer the sugar (throwback) version much better.
However, I hope Pepsi will keep the throwback version and also the current version so that everyone is happy!
Pepsi Throwback is the best pepsi i have ever tasted!
This soda is the best soda anyone can ever taste! With lest fatning then the regular pepsi u can drink soda and not gain wait! Thats why i am sure everyone would prefer PepsiThrowdown over the regular pepsi.
With lest fatning then the regular pepsi u can drink soda and not gain wait! Thats why i am sure everyone would prefer PepsiThrowdown over the regular pepsi.
I toattly agree with Emmys comment i always used to drink pepsi beafor a concert and thats why i would always touch my stomach. But wih this all new pepsi throwback i can now dance on stage!
I've managed to stock up with around 8 12 packs so far and with the Memorial Day sales coming up, I'll be able to get more. What I've noticed, though, is that most of the large retailers (Super K Mart, Wal-Mart, Target, etc) tend to be sold out or only have a few 12 packs of the Pepsi Throwback left, where there's usually a decent supply of the Dew Throwback. So I guess this means the Pepsi version is selling really well. I really hope Pepsi ends up keeping Throwback permanently, because I can't see myself going back to the HFCS version. My mom doesn't even want to drink it because she's afraid she'll like it and then it will be gone. I wonder how long until we hear if it's going to be permanent in the end or not?
THE BEST SOFT DRINK I HAVE HAD SINCE CHILDHOOD! IT IS ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC! I TRULY HOPE IT BECOMES A REGULAR, IT WILL BE THE ONLY ONE I BUY!
omg I just tried the Pepsi TB and let me tell you…its the best stuff on earth!!!!!!!!! I also went to the local store and bought 15 12pks…i hope they bring it permanently and not just temporarily.
HFCS has been banned from our house, so we have so loved the Pepsi throwback, I sure hope it stays around. We have been going around town stocking up, but it is very hard to find (we hope this means others are also snapping it up) and that Pepsi will take note !! I have a couple in the fridge and only 4 cans left in the pantry.
I reminds me of summer picnics from when I was young and the anticipation of a cold soda on hot summer day.
I'm hoping Pepsi decides to continue with Pepsi Throwback. It's so much better tasting than Pepsi with HFCS and much better for you. The more I get used to drinks without the corn syrup, the more I dislike that syrupy taste. I will continue to drink Pepsi Throwback as long as it's available but will not drink regular Pepsi. Please keep it on the market.
I'll be sorely disappointed when I can no longer buy anymore Pepsi TB. It definitely has a different (better) taste. No funky aftertaste like the current stuff. As some have said, it reminds me of the Pepsi I drank as a kid back in the 70's.
I am not a regular Pepsi drinker, but I just love the taste of Pepsi Throwback , it tastes so much better than regular pepsi. I also hope that Pepsi will keep Pepsi Throwback on the market.
My wife and I traveled to Paris last fall and I wondered why the cola tasted better over there than in the US. Europe doesn't have a corn growing industry to subsidize nor an imbargo of Cuban sugar, so they use the real thing. I hope Pepsi will decide to keep Throwback after the testing period.
Stumbled across this at a convenience store today - quite good. The spousal unit is at the store today, and some Pepsi Throwback is now on the shopping list.
For those wanting the same thing in Dr. Pepper, the original DP plant in Dublin, TX makes Dr. Pepper with Imperial cane sugar. You can buy it for a 50-mile radius around Dublin. We drove from DFW to Dublin about six months ago - bought 10 cases of the stuff. So good…
I totally agree with your review about the design & the Flavor. The flavor is absolutely AWESOME, I bought a 12-pack for memorial weekend trip and I could not stop drinking it. My wife & I even took our Pepsi throwback cans into the movie theater as we did NOT want the Pepsi/Coke whichever they served. Totally Awesome … Pepsi should seriously consider keeping this Throwback on shelf's FOREVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Definitely change the design, 9 out of 10 folks wont even know they are looking at a different can … worst enough they might even drink it and think they got a 'GOOD' batch of Pepsi this time from the shelf
I love pop. Coke used to be my favorite until it began making me sick (digestion problems). I don't experience that with Pepsi. I do notice a difference in the Throwback version. It tastes less tangy and acidic, with a more fuller sweeter flavor. It even feels smoother going down. All pop is bad for you in the long run but if you're gonna drink it anyways, I highly recommend trying Pepsi Throwback.
[...] for you Pepsi Throwback lovers out there… there's no high fructose corn syrup either (ha [...]
The Throwback is delicious and impossible to find now. Since I am an addict, I have instead purchased regular, old HFCS and it makes me sad. I WANT THE THROWBACK, BACK!
Please don't take my PEPSI throwback away, I am 52 years young and I have been drinking PEPSI lifelong, I righ away noticed in the mid 80s that it changed to HFCS, What a dissapointment, I am a taster and when I tasted throwback I said it was about time it came back and DON'T TAKE IT AWAY. Double the price but DON'T TAKE IT AWAY, you can't imagine how many people pepsi drinkers you pissed off in the 80's by discontinuing sugar sweetened pepsi. If you have found an increase in sales, it could be the answer for you in these times of trouble, you think about it. What got Chrysler corp. out of trouble the first time? Lee Iacoka and the cheap little K car he introduced to america, we benefited and Chrysler corp. went from rags to riches, that is one example. You can also look at the 2005 Mustang that looks like the car of the 70's, they have been selling like hotcakes and is Ford contemplating chapter 13, not on your life. Chrysler went and came out with the updated charger that looks like the back end of a mule and who ever heard of a frikkin charger with 4 doors? then they release their challenger when it was too late, and GM with their updated Camaro that never got released and could have got them out of trouble. Oh well, If you feel Pepsico sinking in quicksand, re release the throwback or better yet keep it on the market…..P.S. You can rant and rave about how both tast the same. NO NO NO. the one sweetened with HFCS is JUNK and you can take it with a grain of salt. To be totally truthful, I could give a RATS ASS about PEPSICO but don't take away PEPSI THROWBACK EVER……………..
We bought the last 2 packs of Pepsi Throwback at our local Safeway. It took weeks for us to find some. I was getting a bit angry, seeing the commercials and not able to spend my hard earned money on it. This is what Pepsi should ALWAYS BE. Real suger. No HFCS. B.S.
I WANT TO BUY PEPSI THROWBACK. What's wrong with your marketing guys? I'm seriously considering a boycot of regular Pepsi. If we all do it, they'll have to give it to us. 8 weeks, sure right.
Pepsi folks–WAKE UP. WE WANT THROWBACK.
OOMMMGGGG i cant believe ive been putting up with that sick trash cola for years PEPSI you should not of produced this product because when you cancel throwback i will not be able to drink hfcs pespi again You guys need to change to natural sugar permentally PPPPPLLLLLLLEEEEEEAAAAAAASSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSEEEEEEEEE dont stop making thisTHROWBACK !!! THROWBACK!! THROWBACK!!THROWBACK !!! THROWBACK!! THROWBACK!!THRTHROWBACK !!! THROWBACK!! THROWBACK!!OWBACK !!! THROWBACK!! THROWBACK!!THROWBACK !!! THROWBACK!! THROWBACK!!THROWBACK !!! THROWBACK!! THROWBACK!!THROWBACK !!! THROWBACK!! THROWBACK!!
[...] Pepsi to play catch up. And while here in the U.S. they try to do that with niche drinks like Pepsi Throwback, Pepsi Natural, and Sierra Mist Ruby Splash, in Japan the tastes seem to be a little crazier. [...]
THROWBACK IS GREAT!!!! Pepsico please keep it.
I want to quit hfcs stuff it tastes bad!!!!!!
My husband and I agree whole heartedly with the rest of the comments here. I took one taste of the throwback and immediatley loved it. It was the same pepsi I grew up with and really don't want anything less,especialy now that you have come out with the throwback. I too am considering not even buying pepsi if you don't continue to make this.
We were so dissapointed when we couldn't find it at the store(we checked as soon as we heard about it),took long enough to find it and now after a few weeks we can't find it anywhere.
Please keep making and selling this ,promote it as much as you do the regular pepsi…Trust us all, it WILL sell!!!!!
[...] August 3-17, most likely dependent on local supplies (much like we've seen with the inventories of Pepsi Throwback and Mountain Dew Throwback fading away, much to our dismay). For those wondering, the original [...]
I can't get enough of this stuff. For many years, I've made a 7 hour drive to Southwest Detroit for Christmas and always made a point to stop by a Hispanic grocery store to stock up on Mexican Pepsi in glass bottles. This is truly the next best thing. I asked a local store clerk today if I should stock up on Throwback Pepsi, and he said there was no need because they were going to keep stocking it. Thank God I found this article and now know that it's soon to be unavailable. I'll have to clear out half my garage to store my stockpile. If they ever decide to bottle Throwback in glass in Mexico, then I'm moving to Juarez.
1) they could do just like Dr. Pepper and continue production, in small 8oz bottles and sell them in 6-packs for $6-8.
2) if they REALLY want to use the term "throwback", why dont they throw it back to the days when pepsi was a bargain soda, i want TWICE the soda for the same price.
Just wanted to say I love it and the only way it will stay is thru sales. Since the invention of HFCS americans have become fatter. Our bodies can process simple sugers better than HFCS. HFCS puts our bodies out of whack and makes us fatter than we need to be. FORGET ABOUT DIET COLA. It is the natural sugars that will keep you thin.
I was born in 1969. I remember walking down to the local store after little league ball practice with 35 cents to get a soda. We drank em all. Coke when they had the Star Wars cans. RC when they had Cincy Reds on them because everybody wanted the Pete Rose can. Pepsi when you won $500.00 if you spelled out PEPSI with caps. This Pepsi Throwback is close to the original. Its a little dulled down from what I remember but God, its hands down better than regular Pepsi is now. Seeing how Grass Fed Beef and Natural Chickens are starting to make a comeback I see a market for this in the future. Since Im now a borderline diabetic (thanks HFCS!) I really have to limit myself on Pepsi Throwback. Lets see, if I keep to the diet and keep working out, I guess I can cheat and have a can a week. They better keep making this. BTW, you used to be able to get real sugar Coke in Hawaii due to all the sugar cane farms there made it cheaper than importing HFCS. Anybody know if this is still true? Went there in 1987, and could not drink any Cola for weeks after I got back, because it ROCKED!!!!!
I bought a twelve of this on a lark, since they had a huge stack of them next to the last couple twelves of MD TB that I was at the Target to horde. Thought, meh, may as well try it, since the MD TB has us thoroughly addicted, how much of a waste could it be? Couldn't remember the last time I drank Pepsi proper, much less bought any of it, though I've tolerated Diet Pepsi when nothing else was available. Needless to say, we drank almost the entire twelve this weekend, even with all the MD TB on hand. I'm desperate to write to Pepsi and tell them that (though it's awfully hard to find a "submit feedback" place on their website), even though I'm in Atlanta, where Pepsi is a dirty word, that this stuff will bring me back, not just from Coke, but from diet beverages. I DON'T CARE how many calories are in it, I will drink it, and not feel the least bit guilty. It's a flash back to childhood, when cola was actually a flavor instead of a color, more so to me than even Kosher Coke, which we horde every year like proper soda snobs, and thought we were enjoying as a flashback to childhood. Anything that will tempt me away from my Diet Dr. Pepper addiction, and also bring in the man who hates diet and prefers root beer and cream soda, is a magical elixer indeed.
Besides, a very real demographic with disposable soda income and the buying choice power is people old enough to desire recreating their childhoods. Younger people w/o the associations might not think it's much compared to the HFCS stuff, but below a certain age, kids will drink any soda just b/c it's soda, so if the parents choose to buy this stuff, there may be eye rolls, but the younger ones will still drink it.
Now I just really hope that the Target still has a couple twelves left, since that was the only place I'd seen this, even though a few places have had enough of the MD TB in stock for me to notice and stock up.
I bought a few 12 packs and loved it. I'm sick of the bad tasting HFCS sodas here in the States. There is definitely a difference in the taste. To my shigrin, I have not been able to find anymore of the Throwback. Last night I was at a local grocery store and they had a 5 for $11 sale on 12-packs of Pepsi products. Low and behold, they had a stack of Pepsi Throwback! I bought 10 12-packs for $22. Best investment of the summer. Pepsi, please start making your soda with natural sugar again!!!
Keep the throwback please.
Dear Pepsi,
All of our family loved your Pepsi throwback, are you still making it? because there are no more at all of our local stores.If you are not we would love it if you would make it again because we really liked it we just finished our last one and have no more. Please make more Pepsi throwback.
:the VanBoven Family
7-4-09
I guess it's gone for good.
Is it really gone for good now? I was really hoping that they'd keep it permanently since so many people liked it. I seriously can't go back to normal Pepsi now because it tastes awful to me compared to the Throwback. But yesterday I went into Wal-Mart and there were only 2 12 packs and 4 20 oz. bottles left in the whole store and they had it marked down, so it seems they were getting rid of it. I'm now down to 6 12 packs and I don't want to run out, so I've been limiting myself to a can a day. Please, Pepsi, bring back Throwback for good!
I haven't bought Pepsi since they stopped using sugar. Pepsi today leaves a bad taste in the roof of my mouth. Keep the Throwback and throw out the other.
Why in world would Pepsi stop making such a product that sold right off the shelfs as soon as they were put up? Can we PLEASE bring back the Throw back pepsi and Mountain Dew? Also, is there any way we can purchase some on line from Pepsi? It just makes no Marketing sense what so ever, unless there is something they are not telling us. Please, please and more pleases, bring them back, they were they best thing since sliced bread.
Maybe that will teach them to stop messing with a classic formulation - people tend to prefer the "natural" versions of products much better than the chemically-hopped up ones. And they can say HFCS is "just like table sugar" all they like, but anyone who's hypoglycemic or diabetic knows otherwise.
Let them know we want it. Companies listen to feedback. They figure each individual person who bothers to contact them represents many, many more who didn't bother but have the same opinion.
http://www.pepsico.com/Contacts.aspx
I got a hold of the MD throwback first. Loved it, as i do drink soda regularly.
I just appreciated how less harsh it tasted when i took that first sip. Then i found the Throwback pepsi and bought a couple of cases of it. Loved that even more. Just much easier to drink, and didn't seem as harsh on my stomach.
I hope they keep it. After drinking Throwback Pepsi, I went and picked up a regular bottle of MD and was like BLEH !!!. It just seemed totally amiss to me.
Can you tell me when you will come back out with Pepsi Throwback? I want to get off that darn syrup and back to natural sugar lit it use to be a long time ago. By the time I found out about it being out it was already off the shelves. Do you know anyone in the Tulsa area that still has it? If you have some across the river at the plant I am willing to drive over there to get it.
I bought some Pepsi throwback today and it's great! Very similar taste to Mexican coke, which is always a real treat… but overpriced here in the states as an import. Please keep this stuff available!
I quit drinking Pepsi some time in the mid 80's because I couldn't stand the thick, flat taste of the pop or the awful aftertaste. I thought it was the plastic bottles (which I still despise) or that maybe you lose your taste for pop as you get older. At the time I had no idea about HFCS. Anyway, I saw a commercial for Throwback and decided to give it a try, in cans, of course. It doesn't have the fizz or the bite that Pepsi had in the 50's and 60's, but it sure was good. I bought 24 cases.
THE GOOD NEWS: I HEAR THEY ARE BRINGING THROWBACK BACK ON DECEMBER 28 - MERRY CHRISTMAS
I WORK FOR PEPSI AND I DONT DRINK ANY SODA I HAVENT HAD A ONE SOFT DRINK IN 5 YEARS. ALL THOUGH I WAS VERY THIRSTY ONE DAY AND THOUGHT I NEEDED SOME CAFFEINE IN MY SYSTEM AND I GOT A REALLY GREAT DEALON PEPSI THROWBACK AT ONE OF THE GATE SALES. SO I TRYED THE PEPSI THROWBACK FIRST SOFT DRINK I 'VE HAD IN YEARS IT WAS AWESOME, I TRYED REGULAR PEPSI AFTER AND IT TASTED AWFUL IT TASTED LIKE SUGAR ACID JUST LIKE I FIGURED. BUT I WANT TO TELL PEOPLE PEPSI THROWBACK SHOULD BE A ITEM FOR SALE NOT JUST FOR LIMITED TIME ONLY HELP, GET THIS PRODUCT IN DEMAND, SO I CAN BUY IT. BECAUSE AFTER IT SELLS OUT AT THE EMPLOYEE SALE I WONT HAVE IT AND NOW IM ADDICTED EVERYONE MUST TRY LOL !!! ENJOY !!!
(jazz flute)
Pepsi and Me
used to be
wild and free
then came the syrup
and Pepsi was no more…
What, now it's back?
with sweet sugar, not crap!
life is sweet, life is good
with Pepsi Throwback
…in the 'hood.
(/jazz flute..)
I love this Pepsi TB, and when I heard it was running only a few weeks, I went out and bought all I could, however I was at Walmart the other day, and they had quite a bit of it, and the product was it the good ole red, white and blue pkg…Kudos to Pepsi!
i've been drinking diet sodas for years cause the HFCS makes me gag and get sick to my stomach…couldnt stand yacking all the time. I always felt horrible about the diet sodas too… NATURAL SUGARS FTW!
my husband is a hard core pepsi drinker and he loves the pepsi throwback i think you should take a poll to keep it in stores i think if you kept it out it would sell please keep it around
I still have some of the first edition of the Pepsi Throwback from April 2009. It does taste different than the current Throwback version. The April version has more carbonation in it and is a little sweeter than the December Throwback version. However, I do like the December version. Probably about the same as the April version. I recently picked up a 12 pack of the HFCS Pepsi to compare it to the Throwback versions. Big difference! The HFCS has a fake taste to it. Not sure how I was able to drink it for all these years and like it. I must say both Throwback versions are better than the HFCS version. Please Pepsi, keep the Throwback's permament! This will give you guys and edge over Coke!
Herbert Alden
I hope Throwback tastes like the Pepsi I remember from my teen years when it was still a good mixer.
Today January 26 had my first sample of Pepsi with real sugar. One word "WOW" I remembered why i loved soda as a kid! The gig is up now…..you will never be able to return to corn sweetener (yuk)! Us converted Pepsi drinkers will not stand for it…..thanks
Tried the Pepsi throwback yesterday and had to double check to make sure I wasn't drinking Coke…so all in all…it's okay…but it's not Pepsi.
Drank a Mountain Dew throwback today…well a few drinks of it…then threw it out…it tastes like flat Diet Dew….I couldn't handle it…it was nasty.
Give me "regular" Pepsi and Dew any day of the week.
Pepsi Throwback is amazing! It totally reminds me of when I used to drink it as a child.
As a calorie conscious adult, I have been drinking Diet Pepsi for the longest time for I didnt want the empy calories.
But Throwback is without a doubt worth the calories.
To me, Drinking Pepsi Throwback is more of a treat compared to the regular run of the mill HFCS Soda that we are all used to just gulping down. This stuff actually has flavour that we can all appreciate.
I love the classic design of the cans too!
I have notice that a lot of American companies have changed the packaging of their products to the classic or a more nostalgic look. Given America's current condition, It could be a way of reminding Americans of a brighter more sucessful promising time. Making consumers feel "Safe" and to not worry about the recession will encourage comsumers to spend.
Any way, I bought a lot of Pepsi Throwback and will continue to buy more. Love it. I just hope they continue to sell it.