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The Untold Truth of the Mountain Dew Baja Blast
The Legendary Status of the Mountain Dew Baja Blast
The Mountain Dew Baja Blast holds a special place in fast food culture, boasting a cherished status that few drive-through menu items can rival. Taco Bell, known for its cult following, has several iconic menu items, including the Crunchwrap Supreme, Cinnamon Twists and Nacho Fries. However, the Baja Blast stands out with its epic reputation. Surprisingly, this drink has been around for nearly two decades, making it one of Taco Bell’s oldest products. Its unique blend of Mountain Dew and lime flavors, along with its bright teal color, has solidified its place as a go-to order for guests.
The birth of Mountain Dew Baja Blast
In 2004, Taco Bell and Pepsi teamed up to create a beverage that would be exclusive to Taco Bell. The goal was to create a drink that customers couldn’t find anywhere else. After extensive recipe testing, it was determined that Mountain Dew would be the perfect base ingredient. Mountain Dew’s flavor complemented Taco Bell’s menu exceptionally well. In fact, research showed that Taco Bell customers were 1.5 times more likely to choose Mountain Dew over other sodas. The introduction of Baja Blast also aligned with Taco Bell’s “Think Outside the Bun” slogan, which was designed to set the company apart from its competitors.
Driving beverage sales through exclusivity
One of the primary reasons for creating Mountain Dew Baja Blast was to increase drive-thru beverage purchases. By offering an exclusive beverage that was only available at Taco Bell, the company hoped to entice customers to order drinks at the last minute when they saw something unique on the menu. Both Pepsi and Taco Bell recognized the importance of the drive-thru to their businesses. In fact, Pepsi stated that two-thirds of Taco Bell’s business was generated through the drive-thru. Launching an exclusive drink based on one of their most popular sodas was a strategic move to increase sales for both companies.
Baja California Inspiration
The name “Baja Blast” was inspired by Baja California, Mexico. During a golf outing at a resort on the Baja California peninsula, executives from Pepsi and Taco Bell were brainstorming ideas for their new soda collaboration. Being in Baja and having fun, they decided to call the drink Baja Blast. While the color of the drink may not exactly resemble the neon waters of the Baja coast, it still captures the vibrant and refreshing essence of the region. The name also aligns with Taco Bell’s Mexican-inspired cuisine and beach vibe.
Exploring flavors
Mountain Dew Baja Blast comes in two main flavors. The original flavor is extremely popular, with its tropical taste and effervescence winning over fans. There is also a no-sugar version of Baja Blast that attempts to replicate the original flavor. Reviews of the zero-sugar version are mixed, with some preferring the regular Baja Blast due to the taste difference. In addition to these two, there are also two limited time flavors within the Baja Blast lineup: Baja Flash and Baja Punch. Baja Flash offers a pineapple and coconut flavor, while Baja Punch combines pineapple, orange, and cherry. These flavors were released in 2021, but are not currently available on Taco Bell’s beverage menu.
Health considerations
While Mountain Dew Baja Blast is undoubtedly a fan favorite, it’s important to consider its nutritional profile. The drink is high in sugar, with a 16-ounce serving containing 59 grams of sugar. However, the caffeine content is moderate, with a small serving containing only 72 milligrams of caffeine, comparable to an average cup of coffee. It’s worth noting that Mountain Dew products no longer contain brominated vegetable oil (BVO), which was previously a cause for concern. The no-sugar version of Baja Blast uses artificial sweeteners to provide the sweet taste without the added calories.
The evolution of Baja Blast
In 2013, Taco Bell introduced Baja Blast Freeze, a frozen version of the original Baja Blast flavor. This frozen drink received widespread praise, with many considering it to be one of the best fast food drinks of all time. The success of the Baja Blast Freeze led to the creation of a line of similar “freeze” drinks, which are still available on the Taco Bell menu today. In 2014, due to its overwhelming popularity and countless requests from fans, Pepsi finally released bottled versions of Baja Blast. However, these bottled versions are typically released for a limited time, making them a coveted item among Mountain Dew enthusiasts.
Bottom line
Mountain Dew Baja Blast has become an iconic beverage in fast food culture, capturing the hearts of Taco Bell customers for nearly two decades. Its exclusive availability at Taco Bell, the collaboration between Pepsi and Taco Bell, and the drink’s unique flavor profile have all contributed to its legendary status. While it may not be the healthiest option on the fast food menu, its vibrant taste and association with Taco Bell’s beach atmosphere have made it a fan favorite. Whether you prefer the original flavor or opt for the sugar-free version, Mountain Dew Baja Blast continues to be a refreshing choice for those looking for a unique and flavorful beverage.
FAQS
Mountain Dew Baja Blast is a popular beverage that combines the refreshing taste of Mountain Dew soda with a hint of lime flavor. Known for its bright teal color, it has gained a cult following among Taco Bell customers.
How long has Mountain Dew Baja Blast been around?
Mountain Dew Baja Blast debuted in 2004, making it a popular drink that has been enjoyed for nearly two decades.
Why was Mountain Dew chosen as the base ingredient for Baja Blast?
After extensive recipe testing, it was determined that Mountain Dew’s flavor worked exceptionally well with Taco Bell’s menu. Research also showed that Taco Bell customers were more likely to choose Mountain Dew over other sodas, making it a natural choice for the Baja Blast.
Is Mountain Dew Baja Blast exclusive to Taco Bell?
Yes, Mountain Dew Baja Blast is an exclusive beverage found only at Taco Bell. It was created to increase drive-thru beverage sales and provide customers with a unique offering they can’t find anywhere else.
Is Mountain Dew Baja Blast available in different flavors?
In addition to the original flavor, Mountain Dew Baja Blast has introduced limited-time flavors such as Baja Flash (pineapple and coconut) and Baja Punch (pineapple, orange and cherry). However, these flavors may not currently be available on the Taco Bell beverage menu.
Are there any health concerns associated with drinking Mountain Dew Baja Blast?
While Mountain Dew Baja Blast is a delicious treat, it is important to note that it is high in sugar. One 16-ounce serving contains 59 grams of sugar. Additionally, the caffeine content is moderate, with one small serving containing 72 milligrams of caffeine. It’s best to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.