Pepsi's newest cola comes with a gut check
PepsiCo, on Monday, signaled its intent to go full steam ahead into “healthy” sodas by announcing the launch of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola.
The new 30-calorie beverage contains no artificial sweeteners, five grams of cane sugar and three grams of prebiotic fiber and is expected to launch online in the fall in two flavors — Original Cola and Cherry Vanilla — and in stores in early 2026 in 12-ounce single cans and an 8-pack option.
The beverage maker called the drink its “first significant innovation in the traditional cola category in 20 years” and it comes close on the heels of the company’s recent acquisition in May of popular prebiotic soda brand Poppi for nearly $2 billion. Ram Krishnan, PepsiCo PEP 0.00%↑ Beverages U.S. CEO, said at the time that the company was looking to “scale Poppi's momentum and unlock new growth through our capabilities. We're just getting started."
Soda makers are actively chasing the functional beverage at a time of rapid growth for the category. According to market research firm NIQ, demand for less sugary beverages that also provide health and wellness benefits on top of hydration, such as gut health, is being driven most by Millennials and GenZers.
The firm said the category last year saw more than 258 new product launches “many with unique functional claims and ingredients.”
In a statement on Monday, Krishnan said Pepsi Prebiotic Cola was part of the company’s ongoing efforts to “adapt to the needs and flavor preferences of the consumer.”
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"Pepsi Prebiotic Cola represents the next leap forward in giving consumers choice, optionality and functional ingredients in their cola experience, without sacrificing the iconic Pepsi taste we're known for delivering,” he said.
Sherry Coleman Collins, a registered dietitian nutritionist, isn’t surprised to see Pepsi jump into the prebiotic beverage market.’
“It’s a category that’s done really well over the last several years. Just look at the popularity of Poppi and Olipop sodas,” she told Bagable.com. “I think people are interested in fiber and in functional foods right now, but I think it will be interesting to see what's actually in the product, such as other additives.”
“Do I think it's necessary to drink your prebiotics? Nope,” said Coleman Collins. “I would always rather people get their prebiotics, and other nutrients, from whole plant-based foods like beans, legumes, whole grains, and some vegetables for instance. Those sources come with other benefits, unlike drinking a prebiotic beverage.”