Published: Tuesday, June 4, 2024
By DEE ANN DURBIN AP Business Writer
A consumer has filed a class action lawsuit against the popular soda brand Poppi, claiming that its products do not improve gut health to the extent their marketing claims.
Kristin Cobbs, in a lawsuit she filed in the U.S. District Court of San Francisco last week, claimed that she bought Poppi drinks multiple times because their labels stated they were prebiotic sodas, and featured the slogan “Be Gut-Happy.” Be Gut Healthy.”
Cobbs found out later that Poppi beverages only contain around 2 grams prebiotic agave fiber, which she says is not enough to provide any real benefits. Cobbs cited a study showing that consuming just 7.5 grams agave inulin per day for three weeks is not enough to provide any prebiotic benefits.
The lawsuit stated that if consumers drink more Poppi any prebiotic benefits will be outweighed by an increased sugar intake.
Cobbs wants a monetary refund for her and other customers.
Austin-based Poppi, in a Monday statement, said that it stands by its products.
The company stated that “we are on a quest to revolutionize the taste of soda for the next generations of soda drinkers and have innovated diligently to create a product that millions have come to love.” “We are convinced that the lawsuit is unfounded, and will vigorously defend ourselves against these accusations.”
The Associated Press sent a message to Poppi in Austin, Texas, asking for a comment.
Poppi is just one of the many brands that make up this exploding market of functional drinks, which promise to improve your health and wellbeing. According to AlixPartners, the U.S. market for prebiotic and probiotic beverages more than tripled in 2017.