Coca-Cola Japan has launched the world's first hot carbonated drink in a can: Canada Dry Hot Ginger Ale.
Canada Dry Hot Ginger Ale is a spicy combination of ginger, apple, and cinnamon and is being launched to coincide with the northern hemisphere Autumn.
The product will be pre-heated and dispensed in vending machines in Japan from 21 October and could set the scene for the release of more warm canned products.
According to reports, the can-heating technology has been developed by US company Hot Can Inc. The contents are apparently warmed by an outer shell through a chemical reaction that heats the beverage without interfering with the carbonation.
Commentators liken the move to the seasonally-inspired Pumpkin Spice Latte trend in the US. Along similar lines, Coca-Cola has also just launched a themed beverage in Australia: a Halloween limited edition Fanta Strawberry Scream.
“Halloween is fast becoming a really popular family celebration, so we’ve added a spooky new treat to help celebrate with the Strawberry Scream flavour,” said Delia Maloney, Fanta marketing manager.
The company has also launched a new permanent flavour to the Fanta line-up in time for summer: Pineapple Lime.