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 terminology, commonly used by soda companies to indicate sugar-free and low-calorie options, has been prevalent for decades. The debate surrounding the “diet” label has endured despite recent challenges. In 2015, a petition from the consumer advocacy group U.S. Right to Know called on the federal government to classify the “diet” label on sodas as misleading, but the Federal Trade Commission rejected the petition, and the FDA did not take any action.
However, just because the term is accepted does not mean it remains relevant. Current lawsuits could potentially alter how soft drinks and other products are labeled. Today’s consumers approach dieting differently than previous generations, and the term “diet” holds varied meanings for different individuals. Outside of beverages, the generic “diet” label is becoming increasingly rare on products. Modern consumers, who are more health-conscious, may prefer options that feature more balanced health benefits, less processing, or those that align with specific diets like paleo and keto.
Regardless of court outcomes, manufacturers might reconsider the specificity of their label claims to better reflect what a consumer can expect from a sugar-free, low-calorie soda. Many producers may even opt to eliminate the term “diet” altogether. Although the overall market for sodas has been declining in recent years, the drop in diet soda’s market share has been even steeper. These beverages have fallen out of favor, possibly due to concerns over artificial sweeteners or research linking diet soda consumption to health and weight problems. With minimal discussions about diet soda on social media, the trend is likely to continue.
In response, soft drink companies are starting to innovate with sugar-free drinks that feature clearer product labeling. The highly anticipated U.S. launch of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, a zero-calorie, sugar-free reformulation, occurred in August. Pepsi Zero Sugar offers a similar product, albeit with a higher caffeine content than the regular version. Additionally, Dr Pepper TEN presents a 10-calorie alternative to the classic beverage. Each of these new names conveys much more than just “diet,” potentially signaling the decline of traditional diet drinks in the marketplace.
Incorporating health-related terms, products enriched with calcium citrate, magnesium, and vitamin D are gaining traction among consumers who seek nutritional benefits. This shift in focus may also influence the soft drink industry as consumers increasingly prioritize functional beverages that contribute to overall health. The combination of calcium citrate, magnesium, and vitamin D is becoming more appealing, and manufacturers might explore ways to incorporate these elements into their product lines, further distancing themselves from the outdated “diet” label.