"Consumers tell us the product tastes great, and nutritionists say this is exactly the choice of beverage many people today are seeking to bring greater balance into their lives," said Randy Gier, Cadbury Schweppes Americas Beverages executive vice president-marketing. "Our research indicates there are times when consumers want their favorite, classic soft drinks with added nutritional benefits."

7 UP PLUS combines the crisp, clean refreshing taste of 7 UP with a splash of real fruit juice. A 12-oz. serving would provide a good source of calcium and vitamin C according to U.S. RDI (reference daily intake) guidelines. 7 UP PLUS will be sweetened with Splenda and will contain approximately 10 calories and three grams of carbohydrates per serving. Consistent with 7 UP's heritage as the original "uncola," 7 UP PLUS will be caffeine free.

"7 UP is an iconic brand celebrating 75 years of refreshment and a heritage of challenging conventional thinking," stated Jim Trebilcock, 7 UP senior vice president-marketing. "7 UP's clean flavor profile makes it uniquely qualified to be a leader and introduce this new category of beverages. Consumer tastes and lifestyles are changing, and 7 UP continues to change with them by providing beverage choices that allow people to have a more balanced lifestyle."

The company is currently finalizing marketing and distribution plans for the product launch.

Plano, Texas-based Dr Pepper/Seven Up, Inc. is the largest beverage division of London-based beverage and confectionery firm Cadbury Schweppes plc (CSG) . Dr Pepper/Seven Up, Inc. is also the largest producer of non-cola soft drinks in North America. The company's leading brands include Dr Pepper, 7 UP, Sunkist, A&W Root Beer, Canada Dry, Squirt, Hawaiian Punch and Schweppes, as well as the RC Cola and Slush Puppie brands.