Analysis finds prebiotic sodas may contain less fiber and more sugar than advertised
A new analysis of 108 prebiotic sodas by University of North Carolina researchers reveals that these popular beverages, which reached an estimated $777 million in U.S. sales in 2025, may overstate their health benefits. While containing an average of 5 grams of sugar and fiber, some products carry misleading "no added sugar" claims despite containing juice sugars. Experts warn that U.S. standards do not tie "prebiotic" labels to specific fiber amounts, advising consumers to check nutrition facts.
Prebiotic soda nutritional analysis
▪An analysis of 108 prebiotic sodas launched in the United States between 2021 and 2025 found they contained an average of 35 calories, 5 grams of sugar, and 5 grams of fiber per 12-ounce can.
▪Nearly two-thirds of prebiotic sodas analyzed contained non-nutritive sweeteners such as stevia.
▪Prebiotic sodas ranked lower in calories and sugar than regular sodas and fruit drinks, but higher than diet sodas and flavored sparkling waters.
Misleading health marketing claims
▪Nutrition and functional claims on prebiotic sodas may overstate their nutritional quality and create a "health halo" for consumers.
▪Some prebiotic soda labels claim "no added sugar" despite containing approximately 10 grams of total sugars from sources like juice.
Prebiotic soda market growth
▪Prebiotic sodas represent one of the fastest growing beverage segments in the United States market, with estimated sales of $777 million in 2025.
▪Carlos R. Soto Díaz and Lindsey Smith Taillie of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill conducted the prebiotic soda analysis using data from the Mintel Global New Products Database.
Fiber content labeling standards
▪In the United States market, the term "prebiotic" is not legally tied to a specific amount of fiber.
▪Researchers cautioned that consumers should not rely upon prebiotic sodas as a primary source of dietary fiber.
Beverage substitution consumer guidance
▪Switching to prebiotic sodas could help reduce overall calorie and sugar intake for individuals who regularly consume sugary beverages.
▪Switching to prebiotic sodas might not be beneficial for individuals who typically choose low- or no-calorie beverages.
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