What is dietetic Dr Pepper?
The first diet version of Dr Pepper came out in 1963 and was called Dietetic Dr Pepper. Sales were slow and there was negative feedback on the use of ‘dietetic.’ Some people thought it was a drink for diabetics. In 1966 the name was changed to Diet Dr Pepper. Dr Pepper was one of the first companies to introduce diet drinks, RC Cola being the first with Diet Rite in the early sixties. In 1969, cyclamates were banned (the diet version of sugar) so Dr Pepper changed to saccharin and the name from “Diet” to “Sugar Free.” It was mid to late 80s when they changed it back to “Diet.” Packaging wise, dietetic was the first introduction to the blue color that visually differentiated between regular and diet versions. Sugar Free cans used two toned blue cans as well as ACL on bottles. The color scheme changed again in the late 80s to a white can with maroon lettering. Similar to what we have today.
