According to the Code of Federal Regulations, a soft drink can be labeled as “diet” as long as the label is not considered “false or misleading.” This term, commonly used by soda companies to indicate sugar-free and low-calorie options, has been prevalent for decades. The terminology has withstood various challenges over the years. In 2015, consumer advocacy group U.S. Right to Know petitioned the federal government to classify the “diet” label on sodas as misleading, but the Federal Trade Commission rejected the request, and the FDA did not take any action.
However, just because the term is accepted doesn’t mean it remains relevant today. Ongoing lawsuits could alter how soft drinks and similar products are labeled. Modern consumers approach dieting differently than previous generations, and the term “diet” has varying meanings for different people. Moreover, outside the beverage industry, the generic “diet” label is increasingly rare on many products. Instead of adhering to the old low-sugar, low-fat diets, consumers are now gravitating towards items that offer a more holistic approach to health—such as those that are less processed or that support specific diets like paleo and keto. Regardless of the court’s decision, manufacturers might reconsider the clarity of their labeling, realizing that the term “diet” does not adequately convey what consumers can expect from a sugar-free, low-calorie soda.
Furthermore, manufacturers may be inclined to abandon the “diet” label altogether. While the overall market share for sodas has been declining in recent years, the decline for diet sodas has been significantly steeper. These beverages have fallen out of favor, likely due to concerns about artificial sweeteners and research linking diet soda consumption to health and weight problems. With minimal discussions about diet soda on social media, these drinks are likely to continue losing their market presence.
In response, soft drink companies have begun to innovate with sugar-free options that feature more straightforward product labels. The much-anticipated U.S. launch of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, a zero-calorie, sugar-free reformulation, occurred in August. Similarly, Pepsi Zero Sugar offers a comparable product, albeit with higher caffeine content than its regular version. Meanwhile, Dr Pepper TEN presents a 10-calorie alternative to the classic drink. All of these beverage names convey much more than just “diet,” signaling a potential shift away from traditional diet sodas in the market.
In addition to changing dietary preferences, it is crucial to consider health aspects such as the role of calcium citrate malate and vitamin D3 during pregnancy. As consumers become more health-conscious, they may seek beverages that not only meet their dietary needs but also support overall health, including essential nutrients like calcium citrate malate and vitamin D3. The evolving landscape of soft drinks reflects a broader trend where consumers prioritize nutritional benefits, especially during critical life stages such as pregnancy, highlighting the need for manufacturers to adapt and respond to these changing demands.