Softer than a Soft Drink: Pepsi launches nitrogen-infused cola
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In a move that is said to redefine cola for years to come, beverage giant PepsiCo is launching Nitro Pepsi – the first-ever “nitrogen-infused cola” that features a creamier and smoother taste as compared with traditional carbonated sodas.
The soft drink that we know today is traditionally made by adding carbon dioxide gas and water into the soda, giving it that fizzy taste that pops in your mouth. There are millions of tiny carbon dioxide bubbles bursting at the same time!
But not everyone is a fan of carbonated drinks. So Pepsi is introducing a new variety!
Pepsi will be releasing Pepsi Nitro in March, using nitrogen gas to carbonate the drink. Credit: Pepsi.
And now you’re probably asking… why would we drink cola infused with nitrogen? Good question!
Nitrogen is naturally about 50 times less soluble than carbon dioxide when added to liquids. So, when nitrogen gas is infused into a beverage, it tends to come out of the solution more quickly, forming smaller bubbles and a finer fizz.
This gives the beverage a smoother and more velvety texture and a thick layer of foam at the top. The added nitrogen gas also comes with a sweeter taste, even without the addition of sugar or sweeteners.
And for those who are struggling with acid reflux or stomach issues, nitrogen-infused beverages are easier to drink because the gas doesn’t create any acidity.
Plus, they’re visually appealing too! Pepsi actually recommends drinking the Nitro Pepsi from a tall glass cup so you can fully see and enjoy the frothing process.
To preserve the added nitrogen gas in their new beverages, Pepsi makes use of a “unique widget” placed at the bottom of every can. Meaning, with this device, the soda should be consumed differently: Served cold but not on ice, and then “hard poured” into a glass to let the nitrogen cascade.
Pepsi Nitro is more than just a cola, it’s an experience. Credit: Walmart.
Todd Kaplan, the company’s vice president of marketing, describes the move as their “most ambitious feat yet”, and genuinely believes this is a huge leap forward for the cola category.
Nitro Pepsi will come in both regular and vanilla flavours, and will be sold in single-serve cans and four-packs. The official release date is March 28 in the US, and may make its way to Australia soon after.
Are you looking forward to trying this new drink? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!