McDonald's to start selling refreshers and crafted sodas nationwide in May
McDonald's is expanding its cold beverage menu and also plans to introduce energy drinks later this year.
www.cbsnews.comDirect answer: McDonald’s announced six new specialty drinks will join the McCafé lineup permanently nationwide starting May 6, 2026. The lineup includes three Refreshers (Strawberry Watermelon, Mango Pineapple, Blackberry Passion Fruit) and three crafted sodas (Sprite Berry Blast, Orange Dream, Dirty Dr Pepper) with features like freeze-dried fruit, popping boba, and cold foam [sources cited below].
Details and context:
- Launch date and scope: The six drinks go live nationwide on May 6, 2026, expanding McDonald’s beverage options beyond its standard fountain offerings.[1][4]
- Beverage types: Three lemonade-based Refreshers and three Craft Sodas, designed to be permanent additions to the menu across U.S. restaurants.[4][1]
- Ingredients and presentation: The Refreshers feature lemonade bases with fruit inclusions (freeze-dried fruit) and styles like popping boba; the Craft Sodas include cold foam toppings and flavor twists (Blue Raspberry/vanilla, etc.).[3][1][4]
- Public reception and rollout: Coverage from multiple outlets indicates a strategic shift toward a beverage-led experience at McDonald’s, aiming to position the chain more competitively in the specialty-drink space.[6][4]
Quick reference of the six drinks:
- Refreshers: Strawberry Watermelon Refresher; Mango Pineapple Refresher; Blackberry Passion Fruit Refresher.
- Craft Sodas: Sprite Berry Blast; Orange Dream; Dirty Dr Pepper.
Illustrative note:
- The six drinks are described as nationwide permanent menu additions, signaling a broader emphasis on specialty beverages at McDonald’s stores nationwide.[7][4]
Citations:
- McDonald’s six new drinks and lineup details.[1]
- Nationwide permanent addition and drink categories.[4]
- Additional confirmation and description of the beverages and format.[3][6]