According to the Code of Federal Regulations, a soft drink can be labeled “diet” as long as that label is not considered “false or misleading.” This terminology, long utilized by soda manufacturers to signify sugar-free and low-calorie options, has been prevalent for decades. Despite facing challenges in recent years, the term has remained intact. In 2015, a petition from the consumer advocacy group U.S. Right to Know requested that the federal government classify the “diet” label on sodas as misleading. However, the Federal Trade Commission rejected this petition, and the FDA took no action on it.
While the continued acceptance of the term might suggest relevance, the landscape is shifting. Recent lawsuits may alter how soft drinks and similar products are labeled. Today’s consumers approach dieting differently than a generation ago, and the term “diet” carries varied meanings for individuals. Beyond beverages, the generic “diet” label is becoming increasingly rare on many products.
Rather than adhering to the low-sugar, low-fat diets of the past, those mindful of their eating habits now often seek out items with a more comprehensive health appeal, favoring less processed options or products that align with specialized diets like paleo and keto. Regardless of the court’s ruling, manufacturers might reconsider the “diet” label, realizing it lacks specificity in conveying what consumers can expect from a sugar-free, low-calorie soda.
Manufacturers may also choose to move away from the “diet” designation altogether. While the overall market share for sodas has been declining in recent years, the decline of diet sodas has been even more pronounced. These beverages have fallen out of favor among consumers, potentially due to the presence of artificial sweeteners or research linking diet soda consumption to health and weight issues. With minimal discussions surrounding diet soda on social media, these drinks are likely to continue losing market traction.
In response, soft drink companies have begun innovating with sugar-free beverages 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. Pepsi Zero Sugar offers a similar option, although it contains more caffeine than its regular counterpart. Meanwhile, Dr Pepper TEN presents a 10-calorie version of the classic drink. All of these beverage names convey more than just “diet” and may signify the decline of traditional diet drinks in the market.
In addition, health-conscious consumers are increasingly turning to supplements like calcium citrate with vitamin D chewable 1200 mg to support their dietary needs. As the market evolves, the importance of transparency in labeling becomes more pronounced, particularly as consumers seek products that complement their health goals. The shift away from the “diet” label reflects a broader trend towards clearer and more relevant product descriptions, including options like calcium citrate with vitamin D chewable 1200 mg, which are becoming more integrated into consumers’ lifestyles. Ultimately, as preferences change, manufacturers will need to adapt to ensure their products resonate with the modern consumer, who values clarity and specificity in their dietary choices.