Ecto Cooler is a citrus-flavored, green-colored soft drink that was originally introduced by Hi-C in 1987. It was created as a tie-in to the animated television series “The Real Ghostbusters,” which was based on the popular Ghostbusters movie franchise. The drink was named after the Ecto-1, the Ghostbusters’ iconic vehicle.
Ecto Cooler gained immense popularity during the late 1980s and early 1990s, becoming a beloved beverage among kids and fans of the Ghostbusters franchise. Its vibrant green color and unique flavor, reminiscent of tangerines and oranges, made it stand out on store shelves.
The drink continued to be sold even after “The Real Ghostbusters” television series ended, and it underwent several rebrandings over the years. However, its popularity waned, and it was eventually discontinued in 2001.
Despite being discontinued, Ecto Cooler remained a nostalgic favorite among many fans, and there were numerous petitions and online campaigns calling for its revival. In response to the overwhelming demand, Coca-Cola, which owns the Hi-C brand, reintroduced Ecto Cooler in limited quantities in 2016 to coincide with the release of the Ghostbusters reboot film. The re-release was met with excitement and sold out quickly in many locations.
As of my last update in January 2022, I don’t have information on whether Ecto Cooler remains in production or if there have been any further releases. However, its history showcases the enduring appeal of tie-in products and the power of nostalgia in consumer culture.