November’s menu is full of surprises. Taco Bell is making waves with a neon-hued pie, Jell-O is bringing mischief to the holiday table, Coca-Cola is rolling out the red carpet for Mr. Pibb, and Samuel Adams is brewing up a beer that’s stronger than some spirits.
Looking for real reactions? We sent out a series of Pulses, reaching over 1,000 American consumers for their honest takes. Dig in, you might just come away with some unexpected insights.
🥧 Taco Bell’s New Baja Blast Pie is making waves
Taco Bell has dropped the Baja Blast Pie, complete with a graham cracker crust, whipped cream, and that splash of aquamarine…the kind of color that looks straight out of a summer pool. It’s already turning heads and sparking plenty of opinions.
What are people saying about the Baja Blast Pie?
About 21% are all in; they either can’t wait to try it or think the idea is downright genius. Another 40% admit it’s a bit weird, but their curiosity is piqued. As for the rest? For 40%, it’s a definite no.
When do people see themselves eating this pie?
Novelty is the name of the game. About 26% would bring it to a party or Friendsgiving, making it a fun conversation starter. Some (22%) say they’d try a slice, but probably not finish the whole thing. A hefty 30% wouldn’t buy it at all, and just 2% saw content creation potential. It’s mostly a “try it and see” vibe, rather than a staple dessert.
What about the Baja Blast Pie Chiller?
Taco Bell has also whipped up the Baja Blast Pie Chiller, a milkshake blended with pieces of the pie. 60% say it’s either a fun or more approachable take. For the other 40%, it’s a bit much, or they’d just go with a classic milkshake.
So, how do people feel about fast food innovation?
There’s a lot of love for trying new things: 30% enjoy bold, offbeat menu items, and another 30% are good with occasional experiments. Taste still matters, though 24% want new products to actually taste good. About 16% stick to the classics, so there’s always a group who prefer to keep things traditional.
🪼Jell-O’s No Thanks molds
Jell-O is putting a playful spin on some of Thanksgiving’s most debated dishes, think brussels sprouts, cranberry sauce, and pecan pie, by turning them into wobbly, jiggly desserts. To celebrate its 125th anniversary, the brand launched retro-inspired No Thanks molds, blending nostalgia, humor, and a touch of mischief.
Which mold has the appeal?
Cranberry sauce takes the top spot, catching the eye of 52% of Pulsers. Pecan pie comes in second with 37%, while brussels sprouts( no surprise here) are least popular, with only 11% showing interest in the green, jelly oddity.
Are people into these molds or saying “no thanks”?
Uh oh, looks like they manifested the no thanks product name. About 59% of consumers said they’d pass on these quirky desserts, but a solid 40% are actually intrigued and into the idea.
On a serious note, how likely are people to buy a Jell-O No Thanks mold this Thanksgiving?
It’s more of a conversation starter than a must-have. While 31% think the molds are fun to look at, over half (54%) say they’re unlikely to buy one.
🥤 Mr. Pibb comeback
Roll out the red carpet, Mr. Pibb is back in the spotlight. After years off the shelves, he’s arriving with more energy (literally, thanks to 30% more caffeine), rich cherry flavor, caramel notes, and a spicy finish.
How did Americans react to Mr. Pibb’s comeback?
Let’s just say Mr. Pibb knows how to make an entrance. Curiosity and excitement are fizzing up; 38% say they’re genuinely excited about the comeback, and another 36% are curious enough to give it a try. Not bad for a soda that’s been off the shelves for years!
How do they feel about Mr. Pibb’s new formula?
The description alone has 78% of people saying the new recipe sounds appealing.
How likely are Americans to try the new Mr. Pibb?
The relaunch is already bubbling with interest! 73% of people say they’d give the new Mr. Pibb a try if they spot it on store shelves. That’s a strong sign for Coca-Cola as they bring this retro favorite back for today’s taste buds. That’s a promising outlook for Coca-Cola as they reintroduce this soda in a new era of tastes and trends.
🍺 Utopias (the beer that thinks it’s a spirit)
Samuel Adams has never been shy about pushing boundaries, but this year they’ve taken things to a whole new level with Utopias 2025: a 30% ABV brew that’s stronger than many classic spirits. Aged for decades, uncarbonated, and meant to be sipped, it’s one of the most unusual beers on the market. So… how did beer drinkers react?
What were the initial reactions to the beer with 30% ABV, stronger than most spirits?
People are definitely intrigued. Nearly half (46%) had that “whoa, I’ve got to try it” reaction. Meanwhile, 27% felt it was a bit too strong for a beer, and 10% weren’t surprised at all as they expect craft brewers to always push the envelope. As for the rest, 15% found it interesting but said it’s not really for them.
How do Americans feel about the fact that it’s illegal in 15 U.S. states?
It adds a mix of exclusivity and caution. For 24%, the ban actually makes Utopias feel more premium—like something rare you’d want to try at least once. Another 29% think the restrictions are probably for the best given how strong it is. Interestingly, 28% didn’t know beer could hit legal limits.
Do beer drinkers agree that Utopias should still be classified as beer?
Drinkers are split almost perfectly down the middle. About 35% say yes, if it’s brewed from grain, it’s beer. But 34% feel like something that strong and uncarbonated belongs in a different category. Another 21% want to try it before weighing in (😂, of course), and 10% just don’t mind what it’s called as long as it tastes good.
One Pulser summed it up perfectly:
“If it tastes like beer, it’s beer.”
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