Report

Coca-Cola has launched Simply Pop, a new prebiotic soda line, directly challenging brands like Olipop and Poppi. Set to debut in late February across the West Coast and Southeast U.S., this launch underscores the company’s commitment to food safety and functional beverages.

Over the past two decades, traditional soft drink consumption has declined due to health concerns, prompting a shift toward cold brew coffee, energy drinks, and flavoured water. With growing consumer interest in gut health, prebiotic sodas have surged in popularity, led by Olipop and Poppi.

Simply Pop: Ingredients and Food Safety Standards

Inspired by Coca-Cola’s Simply juice line, Simply Pop will feature fruity flavours like pineapple mango, lime, strawberry, fruit punch, and citrus punch.

Key features ensuring food safety and consumer well-being:

• No added sugar – Reduces the risk of excessive sugar intake
• 25-30% real fruit juice – Minimally processed, ensuring quality ingredients
• Fortified with vitamin C and zinc – Supports immune health
• Six grams of prebiotic fibre – Aids digestion, surpassing Poppi’s two grams but falling short of Olipop’s nine grams

Prebiotics promote beneficial gut bacteria, though scientific research on their efficacy continues.

Market Challenges and Consumer Trust

Despite the category’s growth, regulatory scrutiny over health claims persists. Poppi is currently facing legal challenges regarding its gut health benefits. This highlights the importance of transparency in labelling and ensuring claims align with food safety regulations. Recognizing the market potential, Coca-Cola reportedly explored acquiring Olipop in 2023, while PepsiCo plans to launch its prebiotic soda in 2025.

Commitment to Safe and Functional Beverages

Becca Kerr, CEO of Coca-Cola’s North American Nutrition Unit, emphasized the increasing demand for beverages that are both flavorful and beneficial to health. By prioritizing food safety and consumer trust, Coca-Cola aims to set a benchmark in the prebiotic soda segment, offering a reliable and health-conscious alternative.

Source: Economic Times