In a recent development, a class-action lawsuit has been filed against popular soda brand Poppi by a consumer named Kristin Cobbs. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in San Francisco, alleges that the company’s products do not deliver the gut health benefits they advertise on their labels.
Cobbs claims she purchased Poppi drinks multiple times due to their labels stating that they are prebiotic sodas with the slogan “Be Gut Happy. Be Gut Healthy.” However, she later discovered that the drinks only contain around 2 grams of prebiotic agave inulin fiber, which she believes is not enough to make a real difference in gut health.
Research cited in the lawsuit showed that consuming 7.5 grams of agave inulin daily for three weeks did not provide significant prebiotic benefits. According to Cobbs, drinking more Poppi for additional prebiotic benefits would result in increased sugar consumption, outweighing any potential benefits.
The lawsuit seeks monetary relief for Cobbs and other customers who may have been misled by Poppi’s marketing claims. In response, Poppi defended its products and stated that it is committed to revolutionizing soda for the next generation and believes the lawsuit is unfounded.
Poppi is part of the rapidly growing market of functional beverages that claim to improve health and wellness. The popularity of prebiotic and probiotic drinks has surged in the past year, with U.S. sales more than tripling according to data from AlixPartners. Despite this legal challenge, Poppi remains a popular choice for consumers looking for healthier alternatives to traditional sodas.
