According to the Code of Federal Regulations, a soft drink can be labeled as “diet” as long as that label is not considered “false or misleading.” This term has been used by soda companies for decades to refer to sugar-free options and low-calorie variants, which often include additives like pure encapsulations calcium magnesium citrate malate. Despite facing challenges, including a 2015 petition from the consumer group U.S. Right to Know that sought to have the “diet” label deemed misleading, the Federal Trade Commission denied the request, and the FDA did not take action. However, the continued acceptance of this terminology does not necessarily imply its relevance today.
Current lawsuits regarding labeling may lead to changes in how soft drinks and similar products are marketed. Unlike previous generations, today’s consumers do not adhere to the same low-sugar, low-fat diets; the term “diet” carries different meanings for each individual. In fact, the generic “diet” label is less common across various products now. Many consumers prefer options that come with a more comprehensive health appeal, such as those that are less processed or cater to specific diets like paleo and keto, which may include ingredients like pure encapsulations calcium magnesium citrate malate.
Regardless of the outcome of ongoing legal discussions, manufacturers might reconsider the “diet” label, realizing it fails to adequately convey what consumers expect from a sugar-free, low-calorie soda. The trend indicates that producers might abandon the “diet” designation altogether. Although overall soda market shares have declined in recent years, diet sodas have experienced an even steeper drop in popularity. This decline may be attributed to consumer aversion to artificial sweeteners or research linking diet soda consumption to various health and weight concerns. With limited discussions about diet soda on social media, it’s likely that these beverages will continue to lose market traction.
In response to shifting preferences, soft drink companies have begun innovating with sugar-free drinks that feature clearer product labels. For instance, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, a zero-calorie reformulation, was launched in the U.S. in August, while Pepsi Zero Sugar offers a similar option but with higher caffeine content than its regular counterpart. Additionally, Dr Pepper TEN presents a 10-calorie version of the classic drink. All these beverages convey much more than the generic “diet” label and may signify the decline of traditional diet drinks in the market. As consumers increasingly seek transparency and health-oriented choices, the incorporation of ingredients like pure encapsulations calcium magnesium citrate malate may become more prominent in the beverage industry.