Lawsuit claims that Poppi prebiotic soda is not as healthy as advertised

California has recently banned four food additives due to concerns about their impact on health. One of these additives reportedly found in popular prebiotic soda Poppi, has raised questions about the product’s health claims. A lawsuit filed on behalf of a San Francisco resident alleges that the soda does not contain enough prebiotic fiber to provide any meaningful health benefits from consuming just one can. The lawsuit claims that one would need to drink more than four Poppi sodas in a day to see any of the promised health benefits, and that the high sugar content in the drink would likely negate any potential positive effects on gut health.

The company that makes and distributes Poppi, VNGR Beverage, has defended its product and stated that it stands behind its brand. The lawsuit against Poppi highlights concerns about the use of agave inulin in the soda, which can potentially have negative health effects if consumed in excessive amounts. Agave inulin is a type of naturally soluble fiber that functions as a prebiotic, but overconsumption can lead to issues like gas, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and liver damage.

Poppi soda, founded in 2016 as a healthier alternative to traditional sodas, gained popularity after an investment from Shark Tank, a reality television show that supports entrepreneurs. The product’s ingredients, which include agave inulin, apple cider vinegar, and fruit juice, have come under scrutiny following the lawsuit. As California takes steps to ban certain food additives, consumers are becoming more aware of the potential health risks associated with popular products like Poppi soda.