Don’t call it an energy drink, or a soda… it just is what it is.
The beverage will come in two “bold” flavors with the very descriptive titles of “energizing orange citrus” and “energizing fruit punch.” According to the company, each 16-oz. can of Kickstart will have 80 calories and contain 5% juice, some vitamins, and, of course, caffeine.
But since Kickstart has less caffeine than drinks like Monster, 5-Hour Energy, and Red Bull, PepsiCo isn’t labeling it an energy drink, possibly to disassociate the new offering from products that have come under heavy scrutiny after being tied to a handful of deaths and hospitalizations in recent years.
At the same time, PepsiCo is saying Kickstart is not a “soda” either, as the 5% juice content meets FDA standards for labeling it a “juice drink.”
Whatever it is, Kickstart will begin rolling out to stores around the country at the end of February.
