The Shirley Temple, a long-established mocktail staple at family restaurants and celebrations, is making a comeback as a ready-to-drink beverage. Olipop and Poppi, better-for-you soda brands, have each introduced Shirley Temple-inspired canned beverage.
Combining nostalgia with their functional soda, the launch coincides with the increased consumer interest in non-alcoholic beverages, retro flavors, and healthier substitutes to traditional sodas.
Olipop and Poppi Revive the Nostalgic Shirley Temple
Olipop and Poppi are both redefining the traditional Shirley Temple by offering new, better-for-you versions that lean into nostalgia with functional beverage trends. Both brands frame their releases as modern takes on the original mocktail.
Olipop Shirley Temple is a seasonal, limited-time beverage based on what the company refers to as the “Original Mocktail.” The canned soda blends cherry, citrus, and vanilla flavors with functional ingredients aligned with Olipop’s digestive health focus.
The drink has 6 to 9 g of prebiotic fiber, 4 to 5 g of sugar, and 40 to 50 calories.
Poppi has also launched its own Shirley Temple-inspired flavor, giving the nostalgic drink what the brand describes as a modern “glow up.” Its version is mildly sweetened, has 5 grams of sugar, along with prebiotics, apple cider vinegar, fruit juice concentrates, and cassava root fiber.
Poppi’s take highlights a balance of refreshment and familiarity for consumers looking for the traditional flavors with the newest ingredient lists.
The Story Behind the Shirley Temple
The Shirley Temple dates back to the 1930s and is widely believed to have been created in honor of child actress Shirley Temple when she attended Hollywood events where adults were enjoying cocktails. Being too young to drink alcohol, Temple was served an alcohol-free, playful drink. It was a cherry-topped soda that allowed her to participate in the moment alongside grown-ups.
While its exact origin remains debated, the drink is often linked to iconic venues of the era, including Los Angeles restaurants, such as Chasen’s and the Brown Derby, and the Royal Hawaiian Hotel.
Regardless of where it was first served, the Shirley Temple rapidly became popular and was made one of the most well-known mocktails in the U.S., becoming an essential part of the history of pop culture. Shirley Temple was a first fancy drink, which made children feel included in special occasions, restaurant dining, and celebrations.
With Shirley Temple-inspired drinks, Olipop and Poppi offer functional ingredients and reduced sugar levels. The launches reflect how classic beverages are being reintroduced for a new generation. With the increasing consumer preference for non-alcoholic and healthier beverages, retro-inspired products are getting a new spot on the shelves.
More soda brands have rolled out new flavors and formats this year, expanding choices in the soda aisle.
