Coca-Cola North America announced February 7 that it will introduce Diet Coke Sweetened with Splenda in the United States in the second quarter of 2005.Diet Coke Sweetened with Splenda will be the seventh addition to the Diet Coke family, which includes the flagship Diet Coke, America's top-selling diet soft drink, plus Caffeine Free Diet Coke, Diet Coke with Lime, Diet Coke with Lemon, Diet Cherry Coke and Diet Vanilla Coke."Many consumers told us they liked the taste of Splenda and wanted a Splenda-sweetened option under the Diet Coke brand, so we're obliging them," said Dan Dillon, Jr., vice president, Diet Portfolio, Coca-Cola North America. The millions of current Diet Coke devotees across America shouldn't be concerned -- the Diet Coke they love will stay just as it is."According to the company, Diet Coke Sweetened with Splenda will feature a blend of Splenda and acesulfame potassium (ace-k) for optimal taste. It will be available in a range of package sizes and will be supported by a variety of marketing programs. Further details on launch plans will be made available closer to the introduction.
