According to the Code of Federal Regulations, a soft drink can be labeled as “diet” as long as this designation is not considered “false or misleading.” This terminology has been utilized by soda manufacturers for decades to identify sugar-free and low-calorie options. Despite facing various challenges, including a 2015 petition from the consumer advocacy group U.S. Right to Know requesting the federal government to classify the “diet” label on sodas as misleading, the Federal Trade Commission rejected the petition, and the FDA took no action.
However, the acceptance of the term does not guarantee its relevance in today’s market. Ongoing lawsuits could potentially alter the labeling of soft drinks and other products. Modern consumers do not approach dieting in the same manner as previous generations, and the term “diet” carries different meanings for different individuals. Unlike in the past, where low-sugar and low-fat labels were common, the generic “diet” label is now rarely seen on products outside of beverages.
Today’s consumers, focused on their dietary choices, may lean towards items that promote a holistic health image, emphasize less processing, or support specific diets like paleo and keto. Regardless of court outcomes, manufacturers might reassess the “diet” label and find it too vague to convey what consumers can expect from sugar-free, low-calorie sodas. In fact, manufacturers may consider abandoning the “diet” label altogether. While the overall market share for sodas has declined in recent years, diet sodas have experienced an even steeper drop. This decline may be attributed to consumer aversion to artificial sweeteners or studies linking diet soda consumption with health and weight problems. With minimal discussions about diet sodas on social media, these products are likely to continue losing market presence.
In response to changing consumer preferences, soft drink companies have begun innovating with sugar-free beverages that boast clearer product labels. The much-anticipated U.S. launch of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, a zero-calorie sugar-free reformulation, debuted in August. Similarly, Pepsi Zero Sugar is a comparable beverage but contains more caffeine than its regular counterpart. Additionally, Dr Pepper TEN is a 10-calorie version of the classic drink, all of which communicate much more than simply “diet.” This shift may signal the decline of traditional diet drinks in the marketplace.
Interestingly, as consumers seek healthier options, they may also turn to alternatives like calcium citrate supplements available on platforms such as Amazon. These supplements represent a growing trend where individuals are more conscious of their health choices, further indicating a shift away from the conventional “diet” label. As the beverage industry evolves, it will be crucial for manufacturers to adapt, possibly moving toward more descriptive and health-oriented labeling that resonates with contemporary consumer values.