8 Iconic Soda Flavors from the ’90s That Disappeared

Ah, the ’90s—a decade splashed with vibrant colors, filled with the sound of dial-up internet, and, most importantly, a time of adventurous soda flavors. It was a time when soda companies threw caution to the wind, creating some of the most unique drinks to ever hit the shelves. Looking back, it’s clear these beverages weren’t just about quenching thirst; they were about making a statement. Let’s take a walk down memory lane and revisit some of the iconic soda flavors of the ’90s that, unfortunately, didn’t stick around.

1. Surge

Surge burst onto the scene with its bright green can and promise of an energy kick matched by no other. Marketed as the ultimate soda for thrill-seekers, its citrus flavor was a hit among teenagers looking to break the mold of traditional cola drinks. Despite its popularity, Surge struggled to maintain its spot in the market, ultimately disappearing from shelves. Its departure left many fans longing for its sweet, tangy taste and the burst of energy that came with every sip.

2. Orbitz

Orbitz wasn’t just a drink; it was a ’90s science experiment you could eat. This beverage stood out with its lava lamp-like appearance, featuring floating edible balls within. The unusual visual appeal of Orbitz, combined with its fruity flavors, made it a novelty among soft drinks. However, despite its eye-catching presentation and unique concept, Orbitz slowly faded away, leaving behind memories of a soda that was perhaps too ahead of its time.

3. LifeSavers Soda

LifeSavers Soda aimed to capture the iconic candy’s fruity essence in liquid form. While the idea sounded promising, and many were excited to sip flavors reminiscent of their favorite candy rings, it didn’t quite hit the mark. Some flavors, particularly pineapple, received mixed reviews. While it momentarily blipped on the soda radar, LifeSavers Soda soon found itself edged out by other, more established brands, leaving fans to turn back to the candy version for their fruit flavor fix.

4. Fruitopia

Fruitopia was the drink for the soulful and the dreamers, boasting flavors that were inspired by a more peaceful, love-filled era. With its vibrant packaging and mesmerizing fruit blends, it aimed to offer more than just refreshment—it sought to transport drinkers to a fruity paradise. For a while, Fruitopia thrived as the go-to beverage for those looking to escape the mundane. Nonetheless, as the ’90s came to a close, so did Fruitopia’s reign, making way for the next wave of beverage innovations.

5. Josta

Josta was a pioneer, being the first energy drink introduced by a major US beverage company. It promised not just a boost of energy but a taste of adventure, thanks to its unique blend of flavors, including Guarana. Josta had a core following, drawn to its bold taste and the promise of heightened alertness. Despite its initial success and dedicated fan base, Josta couldn’t keep up with the growing energy drink market, ultimately leading to its quiet disappearance.

6. Pepsi Strawberry Burst

Pepsi Strawberry Burst was one of the unique flavors Pepsi experimented with, aiming to capture a fruity twist on the traditional cola. This variety was part of a trend where soft drink companies sought to diversify their offerings with berry or tropical flavors, appealing to consumers looking for something different from the usual cola taste. While innovative, these flavors, including Pepsi Strawberry Burst, were often seen as niche or seasonal offerings, and opinions on their taste varied widely among consumers. Like many experimental soda flavors, it has since become a memory, primarily found in discussions of nostalgic ’90s and early ’00s beverages.

7. Crystal Pepsi

Crystal Pepsi was a clear cola that stood out in a market saturated with dark sodas. Its transparency was meant to convey purity and a new soda experience. Initially, the novelty of a clear cola captivated many, making Crystal Pepsi a must-try for the adventurous at heart. Despite a strong start, the excitement surrounding Crystal Pepsi fizzled out. Consumers returned to their traditional cola preferences, leaving Crystal Pepsi as a clear reminder of the ’90s experimentation era.

8. OK Soda

OK Soda aimed to capture the Gen X audience with its non-conformist stance and quirky marketing. Its cans featured abstract art, and its taste was described as a unique blend of citrus and spice. OK Soda’s branding was all about embracing mediocrity and marketed itself as the choice for those who dared to be different. Despite its attempt to stand out, OK Soda didn’t quite hit the mark with consumers, leading to its discontinuation. It remains a curious footnote in the history of ’90s soda culture.