Feb. 17, 2026, 4:28 p.m. ET
Gut health is gaining popularity, particularly with the rise of prebiotic sodas that have been trending for several years. Recently, Pepsi has joined the movement with its own prebiotic beverage now available across the nation.
PepsiCo announced last summer the launch of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola, a new soft drink containing five grams of cane sugar, 30 calories, and three grams of prebiotic fiber. This fizzy option, available in Original Cola and Cherry Vanilla, comes in 12-ounce cans and can be found at retailers nationwide as well as online.
With the introduction of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola, consumers now have a variety of prebiotic beverages to choose from, including popular brands like Poppi, Olipop, Bloom, and Culture Pop Soda. Coca-Cola has also entered this space with its own prebiotic soda called Simply Pop, launched last year, featuring six grams of prebiotic fiber per can.
Prebiotic sodas began to gain traction in 2018, starting with products like Olipop and Poppi. The latter brand saw a significant boost in visibility after appearing on “Shark Tank.”
As Pepsi rolls out this new drink, let’s explore what defines prebiotic sodas and their potential health implications for adults.
What is a prebiotic soda?
A prebiotic soda is a beverage that contains dietary fibers known as prebiotics, which are not digestible by the body. Instead, prebiotics serve as food for the body’s microbiome, specifically the bacteria present in the gut, as noted by the Cleveland Clinic.
Most prebiotic sodas derive their plant-based fiber from inulin, which is found in various fruits, vegetables, and grains. In these beverages, inulin usually comes from agave or chicory root, according to insights from the Cleveland Clinic.
Are prebiotic sodas good for you?
The health benefits of prebiotic sodas can differ widely among individuals. The Food and Drug Administration suggests that adults should consume approximately 28 grams of fiber daily. Most prebiotic sodas contain between two and nine grams of prebiotic fiber per 12-ounce can.
A 2019 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition indicated that foods rich in inulin can enhance “good” gut microbes, aid in promoting satiety, and reduce cravings for sweet, salty, and fatty foods.
Furthermore, a 2018 study released in Science found that the composition of gut bacteria could directly influence the onset and management of type 2 diabetes. However, relying solely on prebiotic sodas is insufficient to prevent a potential type 2 diabetes diagnosis.
While most dietitians agree that prebiotic sodas are healthier alternatives to traditional soft drinks, opinions vary regarding their advertised health benefits. In 2024, a class action lawsuit was filed against Poppi by a woman in San Francisco, asserting that she wouldn’t have purchased the prebiotic soda if she had known each can contained only two grams of prebiotic fiber, which she claimed is insufficient to influence a consumer’s gut biome meaningfully.
Jessica Alfano, a clinical dietitian at Huntington Hospital in New York, previously commented to USA TODAY that substantial research is still needed to determine the optimal amount of prebiotics for adults and assess the health implications of these drinks.
What are side effects of drinking prebiotic sodas?
Excessive fiber intake can lead to bloating, diarrhea, gas, or flatulence, particularly for individuals who do not regularly consume significant fiber. Those with sensitive digestive systems, such as individuals with inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome, might experience more pronounced effects from prebiotic sodas.
What’s the difference between prebiotics and probiotics?
Prebiotics are substances that nourish gut bacteria, while probiotics are live microorganisms that facilitate the digestion of food and interact with the immune system.
Prebiotics can be found in fiber-rich foods such as apples, bananas, carrots, flax seeds, garlic, oats, and sweet potatoes, according to the Mayo Clinic Health System. Probiotics are present in fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kefir, as detailed by the Cleveland Clinic.
Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at USA TODAY. Story idea? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.
Key Takeaways
- Pepsi has recently introduced its prebiotic soda, Pepsi Prebiotic Cola, available in Original and Cherry Vanilla flavors.
- Prebiotic sodas are beverages that contain dietary fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria.
- Most prebiotic sodas derive fiber from inulin, typically sourced from agave or chicory root.
- Health benefits vary from person to person, with moderate fiber intake being generally encouraged.
- Individuals may experience side effects like bloating or gas, especially if they consume too much fiber.
- Prebiotics serve as food for gut bacteria, while probiotics are live microorganisms that assist in digestion.
FAQ
Question
What are prebiotic sodas?
A prebiotic soda is a beverage containing dietary fibers that nourish the beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Question
Are prebiotic sodas healthy?
Health benefits can vary, and while dietitians consider them healthier than traditional sodas, opinions differ on their overall efficacy.
Question
What side effects might occur from consuming prebiotic sodas?
Excessive fiber intake can lead to bloating, diarrhea, and gas, especially in those not accustomed to high fiber diets.
Question
How do prebiotics differ from probiotics?
Prebiotics are substances that feed gut bacteria, while probiotics are live microorganisms that aid in digestion.
