In a world of either, neither, or both, mixing flavors is nothing new in the beverage space (no matter how odd the combo). In addition to being noted as a charismatic professional golfer, Arnold Palmer also gained popularity for his preferred drink order — a refreshing combination of iced tea and lemonade. Over the years, iced tea and lemonade have become mixers in many specialty drinks, like Chick-fil-a’s Sunjoy, and at restaurants where customers can request the blend.
For the last month or so, there has been a social media trend of people putting tea bags into Sprite out of curiosity for what the blend could produce. According to a Marketing Dive article, Sprite’s brand director jumped at the opportunity to turn the viral hack into a real product for the company. Since the hype for the trend built popularity around the idea, the company believed this would be the perfect time to officially launch Sprite + Tea. The limited-time drink combined the original lemon-lime soda with black tea.
After the news broke about the launch, social media users weren’t sure whether to take the news as a late April Fool’s joke or something worth trying. Overall, the internet seemed to be excited to try the combo and share their opinions. From mixed emotions to confused admiration, social media users shared their thoughts in the form of Sprite + tea memes and tweets. So, here’s the funniest.
Shrek wants his with light ice, please
Sprite and tea…?? pic.twitter.com/5gd4WPYRTx
Most users were a bit hesitant to test out the new drink, but something shiny and new can oftentimes be worth a try.
Overhyped!
That @Sprite & Tea didn’t hit like I thought it would 😔
The combination sounds like something that could surprise you, and it has been that way for some of the consumers that have tried, and liked, Sprite + Tea. However, for others, the hype was not enough to justify it.
Sprite + Tea? We have lost the plot
Who the helly mixes Sprite and Tea for them to decide to release that flavor globally ?
— MaltLiquorPapi (@LowkeyBrilliant) May 16, 2025
A Sprite and tea combination does sound wicked, but some consumers like the taste of Warhead-flavored pickles so who are we to judge?
He’s not just thirsty — he’s on a mission
WHO HAS THAT SPRITE TEA IM FINNA GO ON A BOUNTY HUNT IN MY CITY
Just like the Trader Joe’s pastel totes, Sprite + Tea has been flying off the shelves. It’s better to get it as soon as you spot it, or else you’re going to be out of luck until a restock.
Thoughts of tea and Sprite, and suddenly you’re texting your ex
The sprite tea reminds me of this sweet tea vodka I used to make. With a lil sprite and a slice of lemon and lemon. So good until you drunk after a couple cups lol
Drink inspiration can truly come from anywhere.
The Sprite + Tea craze has gone international
PAUSE
— 𝔧𝔲𝔦𝔠𝔶 𝔧 (@pizzah000ligan) May 9, 2025
americans send me a sprite + tea please pic.twitter.com/siGjCUfIoW
Unfortunately, the limited-time drink is only available in the United States and Canada so far until October. Hopefully the internet can do some convincing to the company.
As for the general reaction to Sprite + Tea, it continues to expand the beverage market with interesting flavors and testing the willingness of consumers to try them.