Ryl Tea and Jolly Rancher Launch Nostalgic, Sugar-Free Iced Tea Lineup
In a move that blends childhood nostalgia with modern health trends, Ryl Tea has announced a vibrant new collaboration with the Hershey Company. The partnership has resulted in a line of ready-to-drink iced teas infused with the iconic, bold flavors of Jolly Rancher candy.
Launched on May 1, 2026, the collection is already sparking a “flavor rivalry” on social media as fans debate which candy-inspired sip reigns supreme.
The Flavor Lineup: “Impossibly Fruity”
Ryl Tea worked through multiple rounds of testing to ensure they captured the exact “pucker-inducing” intensity of the original hard candies using a real brewed tea base:
- Blue Raspberry: Captures the tart, zesty blue flavor that has been a fan favorite for decades.
- Green Apple: Recreates the crisp, tangy bite of the green Jolly Rancher.
- Cherry: Available as a limited-edition exclusive at Target locations.
- Strawberry: A fourth flavor reportedly rolling out to all major retailers where Ryl Tea is sold.
The “Healthy” Twist
While the flavors are inspired by candy, the nutritional profile is designed for the wellness-conscious consumer:
- Zero Sugar: Unlike the candies themselves, these teas contain zero sugar.
- Low Calorie: Each can contains 5 calories or less.
- Functional Benefits: The drinks are enriched with Vitamin C and antioxidants, positioning them as a “functional” beverage rather than just a treat.
The #RylFlavorRivalry
To kick off the launch, Ryl Tea has debuted the #RylFlavorRivalry campaign on TikTok and Instagram. The digital debate encourages fans to vote for their favorite flavor—specifically pitting Blue Raspberry against Green Apple—to drive engagement and curiosity. Early reviews from fans have been surprisingly positive, with one Instagram user noting the Blue Raspberry was “way better than expected” and had a smooth, non-cloying finish.
Availability
The Ryl Tea x Jolly Rancher collection is rolling out now:
- Retailers: Find them at Walmart, Kroger, and Albertsons.
- Exclusives: The Cherry flavor is currently a Target exclusive.
- Pricing: Typically retails for around $2.49 per can, in line with other premium functional teas.
The Verdict: This collaboration is a perfect example of “nostalgia-driven innovation.” By taking a flavor profile that everyone knows from the candy aisle and applying it to a zero-sugar, vitamin-rich tea, Ryl Tea is successfully targeting both Gen Z “flavor seekers” and Millennials looking for a healthier way to enjoy their favorite childhood tastes.
