Pepsi to introduce prebiotic cola this fall after buying Poppi

PepsiCo is set to launch a new prebiotic soda this upcoming fall, catering to health-conscious consumers who are seeking functional and healthier beverage options. The company announced that the new product is specifically crafted to meet the evolving needs of customers and provide them with more beneficial ingredients.

The upcoming prebiotic soda will be available in two flavors – cola and cherry vanilla. Each serving of the soda will contain five grams of cane sugar, three grams of prebiotic fiber, and no artificial sweeteners. With just 30 calories per serving, Pepsi aims to offer a guilt-free soda experience without compromising on the iconic Pepsi taste that consumers know and love.

Ram Krishnan, the CEO of PepsiCo Beverages U.S., expressed excitement about the launch of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola, stating that it represents a significant advancement in offering consumers a broader range of choices and functional ingredients in their cola beverages.

The new prebiotic soda will be initially available for purchase online this fall, with plans to roll out in stores next year. This announcement follows Pepsi’s recent acquisition of Poppi, a brand known for its healthier soda alternatives, for nearly $2 billion. Poppi’s low-calorie soda features a blend of prebiotics, fruit juice, and apple cider.

The prebiotic and probiotic food and beverage market has experienced rapid growth as consumers increasingly prioritize gut health and seek flavorful alternatives to traditional sodas. According to Future Market Insights, the prebiotic soda market was valued at $262 million in 2024, with global sales projected to increase by 7.6% over the next decade.

In a bid to revitalize declining soda sales, PepsiCo is actively introducing healthier options to its product lineup. CEO Ramon Laguarta recently announced plans to launch protein-enhanced snacks and beverages, as well as relaunch Lay’s and Tostitos chips without artificial ingredients. Laguarta emphasized the growing demand for protein-rich solutions in the diet, indicating a shift in consumer preferences towards healthier food and beverage choices.

Overall, PepsiCo’s foray into the prebiotic soda market signals a strategic move towards offering functional and healthier beverage options to meet the evolving needs of health-conscious consumers. With the launch of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola and a focus on introducing protein-enhanced products, PepsiCo is aligning its product offerings with the shifting preferences of modern consumers.

This article was written by Mary Cunningham, a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch, who has a background in journalism and has previously worked with major news outlets.