Popular soda brand Poppi is facing a class-action lawsuit filed by a consumer who claims its products do not improve gut health as much as their marketing suggests. The lawsuit, filed last week in U.S. District Court in San Francisco, alleges that Poppi drinks contain only around 2 grams of prebiotic agave inulin fiber, which is insufficient to provide any real benefit.
Kristin Cobbs, the plaintiff, said she purchased Poppi drinks on multiple occasions because of their labels, which describe them as prebiotic sodas and feature the slogan “Be Gut Happy. Be Gut Healthy.” However, she later found that research shows consuming 7.5 grams of agave inulin daily for three weeks was insufficient to confer any meaningful prebiotic benefit.
The lawsuit further argues that if consumers drink more Poppi to increase prebiotic intake, any potential benefits would be outweighed by increased sugar consumption. Cobbs is seeking monetary relief for herself and similar customers.
Poppi, based in Austin, Texas, has been contacted for comment. The brand is one of dozens in the rapidly growing functional beverage category, which claims to improve health and wellness. According to data from consulting firm AlixPartners, US sales of prebiotic and probiotic drinks more than tripled last year.
