According to the Code of Federal Regulations, a soft drink can bear the label “diet” as long as it is not considered “false or misleading.” This terminology, commonly used by soda manufacturers to indicate sugar-free and low-calorie options, has been prevalent for decades. Despite facing challenges, such as a 2015 petition from the consumer advocacy group U.S. Right to Know requesting that the federal government deem the “diet” label on sodas misleading, the Federal Trade Commission rejected the petition, and the FDA took no action. However, the continued acceptance of the term does not necessarily reflect its relevance today.
Legal actions could potentially alter the labeling of soft drinks and other products. Modern consumers have different dietary habits compared to previous generations, and the “diet” label carries varying meanings for individuals. Outside the beverage sector, the generic “diet” labeling has become less common on various products. Instead of adhering to the low-sugar, low-fat diets of the past, consumers are now more inclined to choose items that offer a broader perception of health, focusing on less processed foods or those that align with specialized diets like paleo and keto. Regardless of court outcomes, manufacturers might reassess the “diet” label, finding it insufficient to convey what consumers expect from a sugar-free, low-calorie soda.
Moreover, manufacturers could decide to abandon the “diet” designation altogether. While the overall market share for soda has been declining in recent years, the drop in diet soda’s market share has been even more pronounced. These beverages have fallen out of favor, possibly due to concerns about artificial sweeteners or studies linking diet soda consumption to health and weight issues. With minimal discussions surrounding diet soda on social media, the trend is likely to continue, leading to further market losses.
In response, soft drink companies have begun to innovate with sugar-free options featuring more straightforward product labeling. Notably, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, a zero-calorie reformulation, was launched in the U.S. in August. Similarly, Pepsi Zero Sugar is a comparable beverage, albeit with higher caffeine content than its regular counterpart. Dr Pepper TEN, on the other hand, provides a 10-calorie alternative to the classic drink. All these names convey more than just “diet,” potentially signaling the decline of traditional diet beverages in the market.
In parallel discussions about health, the debate between calcium carbonate vs calcium citrate in the elderly has gained attention. As consumers become more health-conscious, understanding the differences in calcium supplements is crucial. The shift in consumer preferences could influence how products are marketed, including the consideration of calcium carbonate vs calcium citrate in elderly populations, emphasizing the need for clarity and relevance in product labeling. As the market evolves, the implications of these changes could extend far beyond beverages, affecting a wide range of health-related products.