With more interest in leaving soda behind, better options have risen. No more feeling nauseous after drinking Fanta or Mountain Dew. Unhealthy, preservative-rich, artificial soda is out. Prebiotic soda is in.
Two of the first companies to highlight prebiotics as a predominant feature of their drink, Poppi and Olipop, brought this fiber back into everyone’s mind when they began in the mid-2010s. Poppi was first called “Mother Beverage” and was founded by Allison and Stephen Ellsworth. Poppi’s website explained that Allison disliked how it felt to drink soda but couldn’t give up the taste. Experimenting with juice and apple cider vinegar led her to create her brand, which was rebranded into Poppi. Their website says, “We’re here to give you the freedom to love soda again, one can at a time.” Another prebiotic soda brand, Olipop, was created by Ben Goodwin and David Lester to give the world a soda that is delicious and contains “functional ingredients that support your microbiome and digestive health.”
Probiotics are fibers that stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria. A writer from Baylor Scott & White Health wrote that “An increase in prebiotics in your gut can be beneficial, as a healthy gut is linked to a healthy immune system.” Olipop’s website says, “Stanford University researchers estimate that our gut microbiome’s diversity has declined by around 50 percent in the last 100 years. This decline is primarily due to the Western Diet: one that’s high in sugar and fat and low in fiber and prebiotics.” It’s important to keep the gut healthy because the human gut aids digestion and fuels our bodies.
Poppi has a tagline that states, “It’s time to love soda again,” claiming there is no reason to hide empty soda cans or drink sad sparkling water that makes you dream of flavor anymore. Each can has less than 5 grams of sugar and contains prebiotics and apple cider vinegar. However, EatingWell reported that, in the lawsuit against Poppi, “According to the complaint, a person would have to drink more than four cans per day to see any gut-health benefits, and even then, the added sugar might undo those benefits”. Although these benefits don’t make substantial differences in a diet, they are still the biggest reason prebiotic sodas have become in demand. Their audience is targeted towards young adults interested in a healthy lifestyle, as well as people used to the classic soda flavors in search of a better alternative.
Prebiotic sodas also attract customers by being visually appealing. Their bright colors stand out amongst other drinks at a grocery store, encouraging consumers to buy them. Their packaging usually has a big, attention-grabbing font and fruit decorating it. Many will advertise the low sugar content and prebiotics. They feature a tab that lets customers crack it open, reminding them that they are still able to drink the tasty beverage they always enjoyed, just without all the artificial ingredients.
Poppi may not necessarily be as healthy as they claim, but they are incredibly helpful for those looking to replace their love for sugary soda. One thing prebiotic sodas pride themselves on is having a low amount of sugar while still tasting delicious. TODAY reported that, “The sugar content of the average soda can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and heart disease.” Instead, prebiotic sodas are sweetened with other ingredients such as cassava root, stevia, and natural fruit juices. A 9th grader at CdM said, “Regular sugary sodas make me feel icky and cause cavities in my teeth.” While being asked about prebiotic sodas, she replied with, “I don’t have to worry about high amounts of sugar or artificial ingredients.” She said she feels refreshed and healthy when drinking Poppi.
