According to the Code of Federal Regulations, a soft drink can be labeled as “diet” as long as the designation is not considered “false or misleading.” This term, which has been used for decades by soda manufacturers to identify sugar-free and low-calorie options, has withstood various challenges over the years. In 2015, the consumer advocacy group U.S. Right to Know petitioned the federal government to classify the “diet” label on sodas as misleading; however, the Federal Trade Commission rejected this petition, and the FDA did not take any action.
Despite the acceptance of this terminology, its relevance is diminishing. Ongoing lawsuits may prompt changes in how soft drinks and similar products are labeled. Today’s consumers do not approach dieting in the same way as previous generations, and the meaning of “diet” varies widely among individuals. Moreover, the generic “diet” label is now rarely seen on many products outside of beverages. Modern consumers, who are mindful of their dietary choices, often prefer items with a more holistic health appeal, such as those that are less processed or cater to specific diets like paleo and keto. Regardless of the outcome in court, manufacturers may reconsider the “diet” label, recognizing that it lacks specificity in conveying what consumers can expect from a sugar-free, low-calorie soda.
Manufacturers may also choose to abandon the “diet” designation altogether. While the overall market share for soda has been declining in recent years, the drop in diet soda consumption has been even more pronounced. Diet beverages are losing popularity, possibly due to concerns over artificial sweeteners or studies linking diet soda intake with health and weight issues. Furthermore, the lack of discussions surrounding diet soda on social media suggests that these drinks will continue to fade from the market.
In response, soft drink companies are beginning to innovate with sugar-free options that feature more straightforward product labeling. A notable example is the highly anticipated U.S. launch of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, a zero-calorie, sugar-free reformulation that became available in August. Similarly, Pepsi Zero Sugar offers a comparable option, although it contains more caffeine than its regular counterpart. Additionally, Dr Pepper TEN presents a 10-calorie version of the classic drink. All of these new beverage names convey significantly more than just “diet,” potentially signaling the decline of traditional diet drinks in the marketplace.
Interestingly, as consumers become more health-conscious, some are turning to alternative solutions for wellness, such as incorporating calcium citrate for sleep into their routines. This trend highlights a shift in consumer preferences towards products that support overall well-being rather than simply focusing on calorie reduction. With the growing interest in comprehensive health strategies, including the use of calcium citrate for sleep, the beverage industry may need to adapt further, ensuring that their offerings align with the evolving expectations of their customers. As the market continues to change, it remains to be seen how these dynamics will influence the future of soft drink labeling and consumer choices.