A Return to Sugar by PepsiCo.

Soft-drink lovers rejoice!

According to an article published in January about beverage industry plans, Pepsi Bottling Ventures (PBV) will soon begin distributing new versions of soft-drinks Pepsi and Mountain Dew, named Pepsi Throwback and Mountain Dew Throwback, respectively.

The launch is scheduled for this month, April 2009.

Each is formulated with genuine sugar, rather than High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS), a member of sugar's sweet extended family.

In addition, the packaging will have stylistic graphics with a retro and holistic appeal. This new "flavor" is marketed at younger consumers and intended for a rebirth of the carbonated beverage.

Paul Finney, senior vice president of sales and marketing, is optimistic.

"We have very high hopes for the new package graphics, promotions and advertising plans. With the solid base of Pepsi consumers here, we believe the changes will create new excitement for the brand and help us get carbonated soft drinks growing again."

PepsiCo. claims the beverages will be closer to their original formulas.

Still, closer does not imply exact.

Maybe this taste difference will be attributed to the sugar source. It's not stated whether PepsiCo. will be formulating with sugarcane or sugar beet and what affect this will have on taste.

Either way, marketers at PepsiCo. are very excited about what these changes may hold in store for the brand.

Soon, Americans will have the an "old school" soft drink to go with their 80's music playlists.