Have you ever wondered why food tastes better with music? Science says it’s not just in your head—it’s in your ears! Introducing Pepsi Soundbites, an exciting new way to enhance your taste experience through sound. Now available at 7-Eleven Newport, this innovative experience lets you unlock better, bolder flavors with every sip of Pepsi Zero Sugar Lime.
Pepsi Zero Sugar Lime offers that refreshing smooth hint of citrusy lime and pairing it with your favorite meals already gives one a feel of a complete dining experience, but Pepsi Soundbites takes it to another level.
Pepsi Soundbites is based on ‘Sonic Seasoning’, a scientific principle that shows how different sound frequencies can change how we taste food. Based on the research by Syn Music – a sound production company based in Tokyo and Kinda Studios, a research agency specializing in neuroscience and sensory design – pairing flavor with sound can enhance the complexity of the taste experience, this may depend on the beat, frequency, and tempo of the music.
Sweet flavors are linked to feelings of comfort and indulgence, with high-frequency sounds (3000–8000 Hz), flowing melodies, and soft dynamics enhancing the perception of sweetness. Using legato phrasing, bell-like tones, and pink noise can create a harmonious, soothing auditory experience that mirrors the warm, satisfying sensation of sweet flavors.
Salty flavors are known for their bold yet balanced nature, with low-pitched, rhythmic sounds (60–250 Hz) and high-BPM, staccato beats enhancing their intensity. Using square waves, sharp percussion, and jazz-inspired rhythms can amplify the punchy, short-lived sensation of saltiness while increasing mental alertness and desire for salty foods.
Umami flavors are rich, complex, and deeply grounding. These are best complemented by low- frequency sounds, layered harmonies, and brown noise to enhance depth. Using deep bass tones, smooth sine waves (4–8 Hz), and resolving dissonant chords mirrors umami’s evolving taste profile, creating a warm, lingering, and immersive dining experience.
Erica Warp, PhD, Head of Labs at Kinda Studios said: “Our senses are deeply interconnected, and sound plays a crucial role in shaping our perception of taste. Our research has shown that specific frequencies, rhythms, and tones can enhance flavor perception – making sweetness feel more indulgent, saltiness more vibrant, and umami more profound.”
Using these scientific insights, Pepsi curated soundtracks with your favorite Pepsi and combo meals, we’re turning every solo dining moment into an immersive, multi-sensory experience.
Ray Philip Pine, Marketing Director for CSD Beverages at PepsiCo Philippines said: “At Pepsi, we’re always looking for fresh ways to make every sip more exciting. With Pepsi Soundbites, we’re not just serving a drink—we’re serving an experience. It’s an innovative, science-backed way to amplify flavor and turn an everyday meal into something truly special.”
Nick Wood, CEO of Syn Music said: “By weaving together frequencies, rhythms, and harmonies that align with different taste profiles, we’ve composed multiple corresponding soundtracks that transform dining into something more immersive – where every bite feels richer, every sip more satisfying.”
Want to taste the difference yourself? Head to 7-Eleven Newport until April 30, grab a Pepsi Zero Sugar Lime with your meal, and scan the Pepsi Soundbites QR code to unlock the ultimate flavor-enhancing playlist that can instantly transform your dining experience. Whether it’s a quick bite or a chill meal, Pepsi Soundbites makes every sip better, tastier, and way more fun.
