Poppi, acquired by Pepsico in 2025, was held responsible for selling carbonated sodas marketed as ‘gut healthy’ despite containing just 2 grams of prebiotic fiber per can. The fast-growing prebiotic soda brand promoted its sodas with a tagline of ‘’Be Gut Happy. Be Gut healthy,’’ which became the reason for a class-action lawsuit.
After facing the lawsuit alleging that its marketing overstated the digestive benefits of its product, Poppi agreed to $8.9 million class-action settlement. The lawsuit was initiated in 2024 by a California resident in federal court and settled in 2025.
Reasons for Lawsuit: What Triggered The Action?
The lawsuit cited that 2g of agave inulin is insufficient for potential fiber intake, and people would have to consume 4-5 cans of Poppi’s drink, which would lead to excessive sugar intake in the body.
Thus, the case suggests that any consumer who thinks of drinking too much to reap prebiotic benefits would be consuming harmful levels of sugar. Lawyers also emphasized that Poppi’s voice on social media contributed to consumer perception that they were buying a legitimate product, not just as low as soda.
There were allegations of violations of false advertising laws and consumer protection regulations. In addition to this, the lawsuit pointed out that Poppi’s social media campaigns, including influencer marketing, set a tone of claiming the soda was a gut health supplement.
Expert Views: Are Prebiotic Sodas What They Claim?
Prebiotics are often sold as a healthier alternative to regular sodas due to their low sugar content and added prebiotic fiber. However, experts claim that prebiotic fiber supports gut health, but store-bought versions often contain hidden sugar,, which may not be effective.
They even suggest that it should not be considered a primary source of prebiotics,, and natural fiber intake can be induced through fruits, vegetables, or scientifically backed supplements, rather than relying on soda.
Dr. Will Bulsiewicz, a gut health specialist, says that fiber is the preferred food for a healthy gut. Therefore, altering your fiber intake may be unhealthy for your body, and it is advisable to consume all soda drinks and other beverages in moderation.
Formal Settlement Proposed For Court Approval
Finally, in December, both parties decided to resolve by settling and requested a 60-day stay on the proceedings to execute the formal agreement.
Finally, the plaintiff submitted the proposed $8.9 million settlement to the court for preliminary approval, fixing the amount to compensate the class members and resolve the consolidated suit.
After the court preliminarily approved the settlement on May 23, 2025, VNGR Beverage has also agreed to pay and provide compensation to all the consumers who purchased the soda drink made with cane sugar between January 2, 2020, and July 2025.
If you also purchased the Poppi beverage during this time and wish to claim, please submit the claim form online or by mail before the deadline of September 26,, 2025.
For now, the final court hearing is scheduled for November 20, 2025, and the settlement fund will be distributed within 90 days of the settlement’s finalization. Until then, you can try making a healthy drink at home for your better gut health.
How To Claim Your Share If You Bought Poppi?
Claim your part of the settlement by following the instructions below.
- Go to the website https://www.poppisettlement.com.
- Submit your request along with proof of purchase or attest to your eligibility.
- File your claim before September 26, 2025.
Note: For smaller claims, there is no requirement for proof of purchase, and payments are expected within 90 days of court approval.
Don’t Just Drink The Hype, Mix Your Gut-Friendly Potion
Skip all the sugar plot twists and make a gut-friendly beverage at home using simple and readily available pantry ingredients. For nourishing your gut microbiome the natural way, consider making a drink with fresh lemon, the zing of ginger, fiber-packed fruits, and natural sweeteners.
After all, homemade recipes never disappoint and are generally healthier than those bought from stores.
