PepsiCo is preparing to launch a prebiotic version of its flagship Pepsi Cola, expanding the brand’s footprint into the health-focused beverage space. Flavours to include Classic Cola and Cherry Vanilla, each will contain 3g of prebiotic fibre, 5g of cane sugar, 30 calories, and no artificial sweeteners.
Scheduled for a digital debut this fall and a broader retail rollout in early 2026, the move marks Pepsi’s most significant product innovation in over 20 years. The formulation mirrors the nutritional profile of Poppi, a prebiotic soda company PepsiCo recently acquired for $1.65 billion.
Following PepsiCo’s March 2025 acquisition of Poppi-a brand celebrated for its “gut-friendly” proposition and low-sugar verve-this launch aligns with Pepsi’s strategy to tap into better-for-you consumer preferences. Ram Krishnan, CEO of PepsiCo Beverages U.S., stated this prebiotic offering represents “the next leap forward,” giving consumers added choice, optionality, and functional ingredients in a similar-tasting Pepsi experience.
This product responds to shifting consumer habits-consumers are increasingly seeking reduced-sugar options and added functional benefits like prebiotics. Coca-Cola has responded with its own “Simply Pop” prebiotic soda, underscoring the intensifying functional beverage trend.
Against a backdrop of declining soda consumption-PepsiCo’s North America volumes dipped 2% recently-introducing a prebiotic Pepsi is a strategic play to reconnect with health-conscious consumers and younger cohorts while revitalizing Pepsi’s core brand appeal.
