If you have a preference between Pepsi and Coke, as many of us do, you know they’re far from interchangeable. Each has a distinct flavor and it’s not uncommon for fans to feel a strong sense of loyalty to their favorite brand. Recently, Costco announced its food court will switch to Coca-Cola products, sparking a lively debate among shoppers. The strong opinions on each side have us wondering: If you tried both Coke and Pepsi in a blind taste test, do you think you would correctly guess each fizzy sample?
In 1975, PepsiCo launched a marketing campaign known as “The Pepsi Challenge,” where it conducted taste tests all over the country, including malls and grocery store parking lots, to prove that Pepsi could stand against fellow soda aisle giant Coca-Cola. The taste tests were a huge success for Pepsi not only because it received major media attention, but also because of the waves it made in the beverage world. Many consider it to be one of the reasons Coca-Cola launched New Coke, a reformulation that aimed to draw fans back to the brand.
It’s been 50 years since the iconic campaign debuted, and to celebrate, Pepsi is reviving the challenge by launching nationwide taste tests and giving away free soda. The ‘Pepsi Challenge’ Returns with a Pepsi Zero Sugar vs. Coke Zero Taste Test
Starting Feb. 6, Pepsi Zero Sugar and Coke Zero Sugar will go head-to-head in a battle of the colas. The first week of events will kick off in New Orleans ahead of Super Bowl LIX. Fans can stop by the “Chips and Sips Quarter” where they can participate in a blind soda taste test, score prizes, and explore other PepsiCo-owned brands such as Doritos, Cheetos, and Lay’s.
If you don’t have plans to attend the big game, you can catch Pepsi on its taste-testing tour which begins in March. It will stop in major U.S. cities including New York City, Los Angeles, Dallas, Tampa, and more. All challenge participants, including those who don’t choose Pepsi as their favorite, can snag a free 20-ounce bottle of Pepsi Zero Sugar because, according to the brand, “even those with questionable taste deserve a second chance.”
In addition to in-person events, fans can also enter online for a chance to win a DIY Pepsi Challenge Kit and limited edition brand merch. Be sure to visit the website for more details on how you can get in on the action.
