According to the Code of Federal Regulations, a soft drink can bear the label “diet” as long as the designation is not considered “false or misleading.” This term, which has been utilized by soda manufacturers for decades to indicate sugar-free and low-calorie options, has withstood various challenges over the years. In 2015, for example, a petition from the consumer group U.S. Right to Know sought to have the federal government classify the “diet” label on sodas as misleading. However, the Federal Trade Commission rejected the petition, and the FDA did not take any action on it.
Despite the acceptance of this terminology, its relevance is diminishing. Current lawsuits might influence the way soft drinks and other products are labeled moving forward. Today’s consumers do not approach dieting in the same manner as previous generations, and the term “diet” carries different meanings for different people. Beyond beverages, the generic “diet” label is increasingly rare on many products.
Instead of adhering to the traditional low-sugar, low-fat diets of the past, consumers today may prefer products that carry a more comprehensive health appeal, such as those that are less processed or that cater to specialized diets like paleo and keto. Regardless of the court’s decision, manufacturers may reconsider the “diet” label, realizing it might not adequately convey what consumers expect from sugar-free, low-calorie sodas.
Furthermore, manufacturers might opt to eliminate the “diet” designation altogether. While the overall market share for sodas has been declining in recent years, the decline in diet soda’s market share has been significantly steeper. Diet beverages have fallen out of favor, possibly due to concerns about artificial sweeteners or studies 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 market presence.
In response to these trends, soft drink companies are beginning to innovate with sugar-free beverages that feature more straightforward product labels. A notable example is the U.S. launch of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, a zero-calorie, sugar-free reformulation that hit the shelves in August. Similarly, Pepsi Zero Sugar offers a comparable product, although it contains more caffeine than its regular counterpart. Additionally, Dr Pepper TEN presents a 10-calorie version of the classic drink. All these beverage names convey much more than just “diet”—they may signal the beginning of the end for traditional diet drinks in the marketplace.
As consumers increasingly seek out healthier alternatives, products like Bayer Citracal D may also gain popularity, providing essential nutrients in a straightforward manner. In this evolving landscape, the emphasis on clarity and health benefits could lead to a significant shift away from outdated labels like “diet,” as consumers prioritize transparency and quality in their choices.