According to the Code of Federal Regulations, a soft drink can carry the “diet” label as long as it is not considered “false or misleading.” This term has long been employed by soda manufacturers to indicate sugar-free and low-calorie options, and it has been prevalent for decades. Despite facing recent challenges, this terminology has persisted. In 2015, the consumer advocacy group U.S. Right to Know submitted a petition urging the federal government to classify the “diet” label on sodas as misleading. However, the Federal Trade Commission rejected the petition, and the FDA took no action on it.
Nevertheless, just because the term has been accepted doesn’t mean it remains relevant. Current lawsuits could potentially reshape the labeling of soft drinks and similar products. Today’s consumers approach dieting differently than previous generations, and the term “diet” has varied meanings for each individual. Outside of beverages, the generic “diet” label is becoming less common on many products.
Modern consumers, rather than adhering to the old low-sugar, low-fat diets, might favor items that carry a more comprehensive health appeal, such as those that are less processed or support specialized diets like paleo and keto. Regardless of the court’s decision, manufacturers might reconsider the “diet” label, realizing it does not adequately convey what consumers expect from a sugar-free, low-calorie soda.
Moreover, manufacturers might choose to abandon the “diet” label altogether. While the overall market share for sodas has declined in recent years, the market share for diet sodas has dropped at an even steeper rate. Diet beverages have fallen out of favor, possibly due to concerns surrounding artificial sweeteners or research linking diet soda consumption to health and weight issues. With limited discussions about diet soda on social media, these drinks are likely to continue losing market presence.
In response, soft drink companies have begun innovating with sugar-free beverages that feature more straightforward product labels. The highly anticipated U.S. launch of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, a zero-calorie sugar-free reformulation, occurred in August, while Pepsi Zero Sugar offers a similar option with higher caffeine than the original. Additionally, Dr Pepper TEN presents a 10-calorie version of the classic drink. These new beverage names convey much more than just “diet” and may signal the decline of traditional diet drinks in the marketplace.
As consumers shift their focus, products like Citracal for dietary supplements may gain more attention. The emphasis on holistic health is prompting consumers to look for alternatives that align with their lifestyle choices, and this trend reflects changing perceptions of what “diet” means in the context of modern nutrition. Ultimately, the landscape of soft drink marketing may need to adapt to meet the evolving preferences of today’s health-conscious consumers.