Diet Slurpee? Don't Mind If I Do!

It probably says something more about America than it does about 7-Eleven, but starting this month the retailer is rolling out a product that seems right for its time: a sugar-free Slurpee.

Fanta Sugar-Free Mango is this month’s diet flavor. 7-Eleven said it has spent two years coming up with the formula for a simple reason: customer demand.

“For years we’ve gotten calls through our guest relations hot line, ‘When are you going to have a diet Slurpee?’” company spokeswoman Margaret Chabris said. The calls have come not only from the weight-conscious but from diabetics and those with other nutritional issues, she said.

As the number of diabetics increases every year, more sugar-free options are needed.  Those not affected often scoff, I've had to listen to many lectures on how diabetics should just not have any sugar.  I've been told this while the know-it-all was scarfing a doughnut, and another time while eating cookies.  Do as I say, or lose your feet and go blind.  Or something like that.

There has also been great improvement in mixed-sugar products where some sugar remains but every possible calorie is shaved until it affects flavor.  That's also helpful for those who just want a treat now and then, and are willing to hit the treadmill to pay for their indulgence.  Zero sugar and zero calories isn't a requirement but it's handy.

Fanta Mango is a great place to start, and new flavors are coming.  I hope they are here before the Missouri summer hits full swing.  A Slurpee is a treat I gave up years ago, I can't wait to have one again.