Pepsi is banking on a growing health trend—gut wellness—to attract more consumers to its sodas, introducing a prebiotic cola aimed at health-conscious drinkers.

Pepsi is banking on a growing health trend—gut wellness—to attract more consumers to its sodas, introducing a prebiotic cola aimed at health-conscious drinkers.

PepsiCo has introduced Pepsi Prebiotic Cola, a new addition to its cola portfolio designed to appeal to health-conscious consumers. The product is the first significant innovation in the traditional cola category in two decades and marks a strategic move by PepsiCo to meet changing consumer preferences for functional ingredients. The new beverage features 5 grams of cane sugar, 30 calories, no artificial sweeteners, and 3 grams of prebiotic fiber, offering a healthier alternative to traditional cola.

Pepsi Prebiotic Cola will be available in Original Cola and Cherry Vanilla flavors, launching in 12 oz. single cans for trial and 8-packs of 12 oz. cans. The product will initially be available online this fall and at retail in early 2026, priced slightly higher than traditional Pepsi and more aligned with the premium positioning of Poppi, PepsiCo's recently acquired prebiotic soda brand.

The introduction of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola is part of PepsiCo's broader strategy to offer more functional and healthier beverage options to consumers. The company has seen a decline in traditional cola consumption, particularly among younger generations who are increasingly turning to sparkling waters and hydration drinks. By launching Pepsi Prebiotic Cola, PepsiCo aims to reignite interest in the iconic cola flavor while catering to the growing demand for healthier beverage options.

PepsiCo's CEO, Ram Krishnan, noted that the new cola represents a natural evolution of the brand's offerings, allowing consumers to enjoy the classic Pepsi taste with added functional benefits. The launch of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola comes at a time when the company is also expanding its portfolio to include more affordable products and catering to a diverse palate with new flavors of snacking brands like Lay's and Doritos.

The financial impact of the new product remains to be seen, but PepsiCo's recent earnings report indicated a rebound in demand for healthier soda brands and energy drinks in the United States. The company also expects a smaller drop in annual profit due to favorable foreign exchange rates and a weaker dollar.

In summary, PepsiCo's introduction of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola is a strategic move to tap into the growing health trend of gut wellness and attract more consumers to its soda offerings. The new product represents a significant innovation in the traditional cola category and aligns with PepsiCo's commitment to providing choice and functional ingredients in its cola portfolio.

References:
[1] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pepsico-launches-first-ever-prebiotic-cola-in-traditional-cola-category-302509814.html
[2] https://kvia.com/news/2025/07/21/pepsi-is-betting-a-popular-health-trend-can-get-more-people-to-drink-its-soda/
[3] https://www.marketscreener.com/news/pepsico-expects-smaller-drop-in-annual-profit-on-us-soda-demand-weaker-dollar-ce7c5cd9da81fe20