PepsiCo has developed a prebiotic cola, as global demand for health continues its upward trajectory.
Informa Market Insights found that, globally, 23% of consumers are seeking prebiotics in functional food and beverages for their gut health benefits.
This new drink marks a significant step for Pepsi-Cola which was first launched in 1898 in New Bern, North Carolina.
Launching in Original Cola and Cherry Vanilla flavours, the new Pepsi Prebiotic Cola is designed to taste like Pepsi-Cola but with the added functional ingredient of 3g of prebiotic fibre.
The new drink also comprises 5 grams of cane sugar, has 30 calories, and contains no artificial sweeteners.
“From the iconic blue can, to the consumer-preferred Pepsi Zero Sugar, our portfolio has always adapted to the needs and flavour preferences of the consumer," said Ram Krishnan, CEO, PepsiCo Beverages U.S.
“Pepsi Prebiotic Cola represents the next leap forward in giving consumers choice, optionality and functional ingredients in their cola experience, without sacrificing the iconic Pepsi taste we’re known for delivering. We can’t wait for the world to try the taste of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola for themselves!”
The new Pepsi flavour will become available in 12oz single cans for trial and 8-packs of 12oz cans online this Autumn and in retail in early 2026.
This follows the launch of a prebiotic soda range from Coca-Cola brand Simply Pop earlier this year. This fruit-forward line of beverages is made with 6 grams of prebiotic fibre and contains vitamin C and zinc – said to support gut health and immune function.
According to Informa, there has been a 13% rise in prebiotic beverage launches worldwide over the last five years.
Simply Pop is available at retailers in select regions and online nationwide via Amazon Fresh. The brand will expand to additional markets nationwide throughout 2025.
Becca Kerr, CEO of nutrition at The Coca‑Cola Company said the team’s research found that consumers, especially wellness-focused Gen Z-ers and Millennials, were really interested in juice and prebiotic sodas.
“Since many brands in this category are new, they were looking to align with names they know and trust for both quality and taste,” Kerr added.
“This was particularly true for those curious about prebiotic sodas but who hadn’t yet taken the leap. We knew that in order to bring new drinkers into the category, we had to strike that perfect balance of innovation and trust.”
Since launching as an orange juice brand in 2001, the Simply portfolio has expanded to more than 20 varieties of juices, juice drinks, ades, smoothies, etc.
