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Coca-Cola Ventures into Prebiotic Sodas with New Simply Pop Line

In a significant move reflecting current beverage trends, Coca-Cola has announced the launch of its first prebiotic soda, named Simply Pop, under its Simply Beverages brand. This new product aims to tap into the growing interest in health-oriented drinks among consumers.

Unveiled on Tuesday, Simply Pop is touted as a soda that includes “real fruit juice, no added sugar, and no compromises.” Each can contains six grams of prebiotic fiber, 20-30% fruit juice, along with essential vitamins like C and zinc, providing a dual benefit of indulgence and health. According to the company’s statements to Food & Wine, the product is designed to cater to those looking to enjoy a flavorful beverage while also taking steps toward better health.

The flavors available for Simply Pop will include Strawberry, Pineapple Mango, Fruit Punch, Lime, and Citrus Punch. Retailing at $2.49 per 12-ounce slim can, consumers can expect to see these drinks in select retail locations and online through platforms such as Amazon Fresh starting late February.

Becca Kerr, CEO of nutrition at Coca-Cola, commented on the launch, highlighting the rising demand for juice and prebiotic sodas among wellness-focused demographics, particularly Gen Z and Millennials. She noted that these consumers are drawn to familiar brands they trust for quality and flavor, and the launch aims to attract new customers to the prebiotic soda segment.

Understanding Prebiotics

Prebiotics are non-digestible ingredients that are linked to beneficial effects on gut health. As explained by Harvard Health, they include substances like starches and inulin, generally found in high-fiber foods. These compounds work synergistically with probiotics, which are live microorganisms that contribute to the balance of good bacteria in the digestive system.

While research into the specific health effects of prebiotics remains ongoing, studies suggest potential benefits, including improved calcium absorption, better blood sugar control, enhanced immune function, and a possible reduction in the risk of colorectal cancer.

Simply Pop Flavor Selection

• Strawberry
• Pineapple Mango
• Fruit Punch
• Lime
• Citrus Punch

Though Coca-Cola’s Simply Pop offers a novel way to consume prebiotics, it is important to remember that prebiotics can also be found in common foods such as garlic, asparagus, and whole-grain bread. A 2023 study from San José State University suggests an ideal daily intake is around five grams, achievable through diets that include foods like onions.

However, Coca-Cola must be cautious in marketing Simply Pop’s health benefits. In recent times, the prebiotic soda brand Poppi faced a class-action lawsuit for allegedly failing to deliver on gut health promises, claiming that their product’s fiber content was insufficient to provide meaningful health advantages. The lawsuit argued that consumers might need to consume several cans of Poppi per day to attain benefits, which could be negated by the sugar content.

Despite challenges faced by some brands, the prebiotic soda market is experiencing notable growth. For instance, Olipop recently reached a valuation of $1.85 billion, signaling strong investor confidence in this segment. Market insights project a considerable increase in the prebiotic soda market, which was valued at approximately $262.2 million in 2024 and is expected to reach $545.5 million by 2034, suggesting a promising future for Coca-Cola’s new offering.

Source
www.foodandwine.com