Following an $8.9 million class-action lawsuit settlement in 2025 over 'gut healthy' marketing, customers have noticed significant changes to Poppi's formula across multiple flavors. The most notable difference is the addition of cassava root fiber and, in some cases, the omission or reshuffling of other ingredients, which has led to widespread customer complaints about a decline in flavor. This change occurred after PepsiCo acquired the brand, leading many to speculate about cost-cutting measures influencing the recipe.
The Lawsuit: What was the motivation for change?
The lawsuit, filed by a consumer in May 2024, challenged Poppi's central marketing claim that its beverages provided significant prebiotic health benefits. The complaint alleged that a single can contained only two grams of prebiotic fiber, an amount deemed too low by experts to have a meaningful effect on gut health. The lawsuit argued that to see any real benefit, one would have to drink four or more cans a day, which could introduce other health risks due to sugar content. The settlement, which provided cash refunds to eligible customers who purchased Poppi between January 2020 and July 2025, forced the company to reckon with its marketing strategies. While not admitting wrongdoing, Poppi quietly removed gut health claims from its advertising and product packaging.
Ingredient Changes and Customer Reaction
Following the settlement and PepsiCo's acquisition, customer forums on Reddit and other social media platforms erupted with complaints about a new, overly sweet, and less pleasant taste. A side-by-side comparison of labels revealed the addition of cassava root fiber, a cheaper alternative to the original ingredients. Some customers pointed out the removal of specific fruit juices from certain flavors, further altering the profile. Poppi did officially announce a formula change for its Root Beer flavor in June 2025 following years of customer criticism about its unpleasant taste, which Poppi openly acknowledged with a humorous social media post. This Root Beer formula update was unrelated to the lawsuit, but other, broader formula changes coincided with the post-lawsuit period.
Notable Ingredient Additions
- Cassava Root Fiber: A significant change observed in multiple flavors, contributing to a different texture and flavor profile.
- Flavor-Specific Alterations: The Wild Berry flavor, for example, saw raspberry juice removed from the recipe.
Comparison Table: Old vs. New Poppi Formula
| Feature | Original Poppi (Pre-2025) | New Poppi (Post-Lawsuit) |
|---|---|---|
| Key Prebiotic | Primarily agave inulin. | Agave inulin and cassava root fiber. |
| Taste Profile | Generally preferred by long-time customers. | Often described as overly sweet or artificial, according to customer feedback. |
| Cost of Ingredients | Based on the ingredient changes, likely higher due to more natural components. | Potentially lower due to the inclusion of cheaper fillers like cassava root fiber. |
| Marketing | Centered on prominent 'gut healthy' claims. | More focused on taste and being a 'better-for-you' soda, omitting direct gut health claims. |
A Broader Trend of 'Healthwashing'
Critics argue Poppi’s lawsuit and subsequent changes highlight a broader industry trend known as 'healthwashing'. This involves companies using health-focused buzzwords to market products without substantial scientific backing. The Poppi case, culminating in an $8.9 million settlement, serves as a high-profile example of consumer protection laws being enforced to combat misleading marketing. This outcome, and the resulting formula alterations, may encourage more rigorous scrutiny of health claims in the functional beverage market. It also reminds consumers to critically evaluate product labels and marketing messages.
Consumer Concerns and Final Outlook
While some formula changes, such as the widely mocked Root Beer update, were direct responses to consumer feedback, the broader ingredient shift appears connected to both the lawsuit and corporate changes. For consumers, this means understanding that the product they enjoyed in 2024 is not necessarily the same as the one on shelves today. The core takeaway is that while Poppi might still be a healthier alternative to traditional soda due to lower sugar content, it's not the scientifically-proven, gut-healing elixir it was once marketed as. The settlement has shifted the company's focus away from unproven health benefits towards flavor and general wellness, a change consumers are evaluating with every sip. For more information on the class action, visit the official settlement website at https://www.poppisettlement.com/.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Poppi has demonstrably changed its formula since the 2025 lawsuit. Evidence from customer complaints, side-by-side ingredient label comparisons, and company actions show a shift in product composition and marketing strategy. The change includes adding cassava root fiber and altering other ingredients in many flavors, impacting the taste. Triggered by a class-action lawsuit alleging misleading 'gut healthy' claims, the company settled and subsequently updated its messaging, highlighting a pivot away from unverified health benefits towards a general 'better-for-you' soda position. The lesson for consumers is clear: be skeptical of trendy health claims and always read the ingredient list, as corporate pressure and legal challenges can lead to meaningful changes in product formulation.
