Shifting consumer needs and new dietary guidelines from the WHO have prompted PepsiCo to cut sugar content in its soft drink products. The food giant said last week that two-thirds of its single serving drinks will have 100 or fewer calories by 2025. Currently, less than 40% of PepsiCo drinks have 100 calories or fewer.
Higher Demand for Less Sugary Drinks
Pepsi announced last year it would stop using the artificial sweetener aspartame due to declining sales and health concerns. Scientific studies have linked artificial sweeteners to obesity and diabetes. But PepsiCo reintroduced aspartame to some products in September, saying consumers wanted more choices.
Lower Fat, Sodium in Food Products
Along with its commitment to cut sugar and calories in its sugary drinks, Pepsi also said it would reduce levels of saturated fat and sodium in the majority of its products. Pepsi’s Frito-Lay division, which includes the namesake Fritos and Lay’s brand chips, also sells Doritos and Cheetos.