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Taco Bell is testing gelato for the first timeTaco Bell is testing gelato for the first time

The gelato test will take place at a single California restaurant for two weeks, or until supplies last.

Alicia Kelso, Executive Editor

August 30, 2023

2 Min Read
Taco Bell Gelato
Taco Bell's gelato test is expected to last two weeks.Photo courtesy of Taco Bell

Taco Bell is testing gelato for the first time ever. The company today announced the Mtn Dew Baja Blast Gelato will be available starting Aug. 31 at a single restaurant in Irvine, Calif., for two weeks or while supplies last.

The offering features the two brands’ Baja Blast Tropical Blast Tropical Lime flavor and will be sold in a 3.6-ounce container for $2.99 plus tax. The company said once the test run ends, another Mtn Dew Baja Blast innovation will be on deck this fall.

“This is the first time we are releasing a gelato and we are so excited to hear how fans enjoy the sweet and creamy indulgence,” Liz Matthews, Taco Bell’s global chief food innovation officer, said in a statement. “Baja Blast is iconic to Taco Bell and has its own strong fandom, so introducing it in gelato form feels right. As the end of summer nears, this is the perfect treat to wrap up any Taco Bell meal.”

Mtn Dew has been available at Taco Bell since Pepsico acquired the chain in 1978, according to Taco Bell Wiki. Baja Blast became an exclusive flavor at Taco Bell restaurants in August 2004. That partnership has since expanded with new flavors and into retail. Last year, a Hard Baja Blast, with alcohol, was launched at select retailers.

According to Technavio research, the demand for gelato is increasing as consumers seek out premium ice cream products with health benefits, or perceived health benefits. Gelato tends to have less calories and fat than ice cream.

Related:Taco Bell is experimenting with chicken strips again

Contact Alicia Kelso at [email protected]

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About the Author

Alicia Kelso

Executive Editor, Nation's Restaurant News

Alicia Kelso is the executive editor of Nation's Restaurant News. She began covering the restaurant industry in 2010 for QSRweb.com, FastCasual.com and PizzaMarketplace.com. When her son was born, she left the industry to pursue a role in higher education, but swiftly returned after realizing how much she missed the space. In filling that void, Alicia added a contributor role at Restaurant Dive and a senior contributor role at Forbes.
Her work has appeared in publications around the world, including Forbes Asia, NPR, Bloomberg, The Seattle Times, Crain's Chicago, Good Morning America and Franchise Asia Magazine.
Alicia holds a degree in journalism from Bowling Green State University, where she competed on the women's swim team. In addition to cheering for the BGSU Falcons, Alicia is a rabid Michigan fan and will talk about college football with anyone willing to engage. She lives in Louisville, Kentucky, with her wife and son.

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